Tesla Seeks Approval for Ride-Hailing Services
Tesla has applied for a permit typically associated with chauffeur-operated services, Bloomberg News reported on Thursday, marking the first phase of a series of regulatory approvals required for the electric car maker to launch its promised robotaxi service. The company currently has the approval to test autonomous vehicles with a safety driver in California but lacks a permit for driverless testing or operations from the state's Department of Motor Vehicles. Tesla's application is part of its pivot towards robotaxis, driven by slowing demand for its aging electric vehicle lineup.
- This move highlights the complex regulatory landscape surrounding autonomous vehicles and ride-hailing services, which will require careful consideration to ensure public safety.
- What implications will this have on the future of urban mobility, particularly in densely populated cities with limited parking spaces?