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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A proposal from Republican Rep. Nick Kupper would, among other things, set up a pilot project on a stretch of I-8 between Casa Grande and Yuma as a “derestricted speed zone” for at least a year. -
For the last several years, there’s been an effort to give cities back some of their ability to regulate that market; the state generally took it away in 2016. -
Two new Mesa laws allow Class 1 and 2 e-bikes and e-scooters to ride alongside pedestrians on all sidewalks and shared bicycle paths. -
The Waymo traveled north on the tracks near the Southern/Central Avenue station while trains approached from both directions. -
One proposed state law would reduce the age at which a teenager can get their driving permit to 15 years, down from 15 and 6 months. Another would remove speed limits on some rural interstates.
