Tesla’s self-driving Robotaxi service has drawn skepticism from industry observers, including John Krafcik, former CEO of Waymo and current board member at electric vehicle maker Rivian. The service operates in Austin, Texas, and the San Francisco Bay Area, offering driverless rides to select users.
In Austin, the platform launched on June 22, initially serving a small group of invited guests, with its geofence and user base expanding in the two months since. In the Bay Area, regulatory restrictions prevent Tesla from marketing the platform as a “Robotaxi,” a distinction confirmed by CEO Elon Musk.
Krafcik, who led Waymo for seven years, said Tesla’s efforts resemble traditional ride-hailing more than fully autonomous service. “If they were striving to re-create today’s Bay Area Uber experience, looks like they’ve absolutely nailed it,” he told Business Insider.
He criticized Tesla for keeping Safety Monitors in the vehicles, noting that a true Robotaxi would not require a human employee inside the car. In Austin, Safety Monitors sit in the front passenger seat, while in the Bay Area, regulatory rules require a Safety Monitor in the driver’s seat. “Please let me know when Tesla launches a robotaxi — I’m still waiting. It’s (rather obviously) not a robotaxi if there’s an employee inside the car,” Krafcik said.
Tesla maintains that Safety Monitors are a precautionary measure to ensure passenger safety. Musk has acknowledged the company’s cautious approach, describing it as “paranoid” over safety concerns, noting that accidents could delay progress for any self-driving program.
Krafcik added that he does not plan to try the service himself, leaving its potential to change his view untested.