Elon Musk: Tesla Model Y Already Self-Driving in Austin for Days

Elon Musk announced that Tesla‘s Model Y vehicles have been autonomously navigating Austin’s public streets for several days without passengers. In a May 29, 2025, X post, Musk stated:

“For the past several days, Tesla has been testing self-driving Model Y cars (no one in driver’s seat) on Austin public streets with no incidents.”

This update signals Tesla’s rapid progress toward a June 2025 robotaxi launch, exciting electric vehicle (EV) enthusiasts.

Musk Confirms Incident-Free Testing Milestone

Musk’s key revelation focuses on the Model Y’s autonomous testing success. He emphasized that the vehicles have operated without a driver in Austin, stating, “For the past several days, Tesla has been testing self-driving Model Y cars (no one in driver’s seat) on Austin public streets with no incidents.”

This incident-free streak showcases Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system’s reliability. Musk added that the tests are “A month ahead of schedule,” with plans for the “first self-delivery from factory to customer” in June 2025, targeting a June 12 launch in Austin with 10 to 20 vehicles.

Technology Driving the Model Y’s Autonomy

Tesla’s FSD system powers the driverless Model Y, relying on camera-based computer vision to navigate roads without LiDAR. The system processes data to handle lane markings, traffic signals, and obstacles. With a range of 330 miles per charge, the Model Y suits a robotaxi role. These Austin tests, unlike earlier controlled trials, challenge FSD with real-world urban conditions, proving its readiness for the upcoming launch.

Competitive Landscape and Regulatory Hurdles

Tesla trails competitors like Waymo, which has operated in Phoenix for two years, as X user John Doss noted: “Waymo has been operating in Phoenix for 2 years. Tesla is way behind.” Yet Tesla’s progress could push other EV makers to advance autonomous tech. Regulatory approvals remain critical, with potential challenges heightened by Musk’s recent U.S. exit after his Trump administration role, possibly affecting federal oversight.

Outlook for EV Enthusiasts

Musk’s confirmation of days-long, incident-free autonomous testing in Austin positions Tesla for a transformative June 2025 robotaxi rollout. EV enthusiasts anticipate how this could enhance personal vehicles via FSD updates, potentially reshaping urban mobility with autonomous electric vehicles.