Tesla introduces a new robotaxi feature in its mobile app
Tesla has announced an upcoming update to its mobile app that will include the ability to call a robot taxi. CEO Elon Musk earlier said that the service would be available in August this year.
The updated app will present several interactive screens: the first one with a large “Call” button and an indication of waiting time, the next one with a 3D map with the car’s route to the customer. The app allows passengers to customize the temperature in the cabin and view additional information such as time to arrival and maximum vehicle capacity. Upon arrival, the robocall interface provides access to the route to the destination and various control options, including music selection.
This initiative is part of Musk’s “Master Plan” presented in 2016, which includes the ability of Tesla owners to use their autonomous cars to transport passengers and generate passive income. Currently, autopilot systems require driver supervision, but Tesla says that the new robotaxi will be built from the ground up for autonomous driving and will not have traditional controls such as steering wheels or pedals.
Tesla will also apply an innovative production strategy that will optimize the vehicle assembly process. This step into the future opens up new horizons for the transportation industry and can radically change the way we use personal cars.
