Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA) plans to roll out its much-anticipated Robotaxi service in the Bay Area as soon as this weekend, according to an internal memo obtained by Business Insider.
The electric car maker reportedly informed employees on Thursday that the launch timeline has been accelerated, with some select Tesla owners receiving invites to test the paid ride service starting possibly as early as Friday.
The Robotaxis will operate with safety drivers seated behind the wheel, fully able to take control of the vehicle’s steering and brakes if needed.
The service area will be geofenced to cover large parts of the Bay Area, including Marin County, most of the East Bay, San Francisco, and extending down to San Jose.
Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) confirmed recent talks with Tesla but said the company has yet to submit an application for driverless testing or deployment permits. It remains unclear whether such permits are required given the presence of safety monitors during rides.