Tesla Robotaxi Launch Under Scrutiny Amidst Navigation Glitches and Safety Concerns

Austin, USA – Tesla's recent launch of robotaxis in Austin, Texas, has drawn scrutiny following the release of videos showcasing the autonomous vehicles' performance. While initial footage shared by Tesla enthusiasts depicted seamless journeys, a closer examination reveals a more controlled environment and instances of navigational challenges. The demonstration involved hand-picked, pro-Tesla guests, with vehicles operating exclusively within pre-mapped zones under clear weather conditions. Furthermore, each robotaxi was reportedly supervised by both a remote teleoperator and an onboard supervisor in the passenger seat. Despite the controlled setting, several incidents have surfaced in shared videos. One particular clip shows a Tesla robotaxi initiating a premature turn, hesitating in the middle of an intersection, and subsequently driving briefly into the opposite lane. These occurrences raise questions about the system's real-world readiness. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the U.S. automotive safety agency, has reportedly contacted Tesla to investigate potential safety issues related to the autonomous driving system. This comes amidst concerns that Tesla's self-driving technology has been linked to numerous accidents, some of which have resulted in fatalities.