Tesla has applied to operate autonomous robotaxis in metro Phoenix – marking a potential expansion of its ride-hailing service beyond a limited pilot in Austin, Texas.
The Arizona Department of Transportation confirmed Tesla began the certification process on June 26 for both driver-assisted and fully driverless operations.
An ADOT spokesperson says a decision is expected by the end of the month. If approved, Tesla would join Waymo in offering autonomous rides in Arizona.
ADOT says any company providing ride-share services must meet self-certification and Transportation Network Company requirements.
Tesla’s robotaxis rely solely on cameras and artificial intelligence, unlike Waymo’s, which use a combination of cameras, AI, radar and lidar systems.
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