This article first appeared on GuruFocus.
Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA) has started letting customers book rides in its purpose-built Cybercab across limited parts of Austin, Texas, putting the autonomous vehicle into its first public service while regulators examine its design.
The two-seat vehicle operates without a steering wheel, pedals or mirrors. Tesla says it relies on cameras and other sensors to navigate, while the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is reviewing how the vehicle fits within federal safety requirements.
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Texas records show 45 Cybercabs among 420 Tesla autonomous vehicles registered in the state. The rollout remains limited, with Tesla also operating Robotaxi services using Model Y vehicles in several U.S. markets.
Tesla's own rider rules bar passengers younger than 13 from Cybercab trips, while those aged 13 to 17 must travel with an adult. The company is also accepting commercial purchase inquiries for Cybercab fleets and individual vehicles.
What it means for the stock: The Austin rollout gives Tesla a live test of its autonomous vehicle strategy, but regulatory scrutiny could affect how quickly Cybercab service expands.