Tesla Robotaxi malfunctions in Dallas and Houston test operations
Tesla began operating driverless Robotaxi vehicles in Dallas and Houston, Texas without safety monitors on board, but early passengers reported multiple malfunctions including failure to recognize traffic signs and signals, route confusion, and one incident where a vehicle allegedly attempted to eject a passenger while traveling at 64 km/h.
What happened
Tesla deployed driverless Robotaxi vehicles based on Model Y in Dallas and Houston, Texas, operating in test mode across 78 square kilometers in Dallas and 64 square kilometers in Houston without safety monitors on board.
Passengers reported multiple malfunctions including vehicles failing to recognize traffic signs and traffic signals, failing to reach selected destinations by 3-4 km or becoming confused and wandering routes, and one vehicle stopping on a highway. In another incident, a vehicle allegedly offered to eject a passenger while traveling at 64 km/h.
Reported impact
Early passengers experienced malfunctions that created safety hazards and required remote assistance from Tesla's call center, as no onboard operator was present to take control when issues arose.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.