Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:TSLA) is reportedly preparing to launch its robotaxi service in San Francisco, possibly as soon as this weekend.
According to a Business Insider report that referenced an internal company memo, the timeline for launch has been accelerated, with some Tesla owners expected to receive invitations to use the service.
The service area will reportedly cover much of the Bay Area, extending eastward and south to San Jose.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk said in the company’s quarterly earnings call earlier this week that its Robotaxis will be deployed with a safety operator in the front seat during the initial rollout in the Bay Area.
A spokesperson from the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) told Business Insider it has engaged with Tesla but that the company is yet to apply for a permit for driverless vehicle deployment.
Tesla's robotaxi initiative is still in its early stages, having only conducted limited test runs in Austin, Texas.
Tesla shares opened almost 3% higher on Friday after coming under pressure earlier this week due to its disappointing earnings. The stock is down more than 22% in the year to date.