Max Headroom 
Tesla launched its Robotaxi platform in a limited capacity earlier this week in Austin, Texas, and after hundreds of rides have been taken, some instances have caught the attention of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
However, the information the NHTSA is requesting is routine and totally normal for the early stages of a rollout of this magnitude. But that did not stop mainstream media from milking it into something controversial, when it really is not.
Tesla Robotaxi riders tout ‘smooth’ experience in first reviews of driverless service launch
Various outlets reported on the NHTSA’s request to Tesla for additional information regarding things seen in videos online.
The NHTSA said it is “aware of the referenced incidents and is in contact with the manufacturer to gather additional information.” Bloomberg initially reported on the NHTSA’s request for information.
The thing is, the NHTSA has often reached out to companies right after it launches a driverless vehicle service. Both Waymo and GM’s Cruise, as well as Amazon’s Zoox, have had the NHTSA reach out to them regarding the launch of their driverless ride-hailing services.
The headlines for Tesla are significantly different:
- “Tesla’s Robotaxis Have Already Caught this US Safety Agency’s Attention“
- “Tesla’s Robotaxis have already caught the attention of federal safety regulators“
- “US safety regulators contact Tesla over erratic robotaxis“
Reviews from riders in Austin have stated the Robotaxi platform is “smooth” and “comfortable,” with many ranting and raving about the advantages the new ride-hailing service has over others. Not only is it being monitored by a safety monitor in the passenger seat, but there are also other things that make it unique.
One of the most notable is that your Robotaxi will automatically sync entertainment and streaming settings.
The sensationalism that the media tends to use with Tesla is a big reason the company did not invite mainstream outlets to the event. Instead, reporters were seen waiting for Early Access invitees to exit their cars to ask them questions.
Many denied the inquiries:
“Can I talk to you, I’m with Reuters”
> No
@BeardedTesla @SawyerMerritt pic.twitter.com/jGUdakGzx1
— Robin (@xdNiBoR) June 22, 2025
Elon Musk responded to that video by saying “Lmao,” an acronym for “laughing my ass off.”
The post Tesla Robotaxi launch draws attention from regulators, mainstream media milks it appeared first on TESLARATI.
Elon Musk, News, Tesla, Featured, mainstream media, Tesla Robotaxi
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