Tesla expands Robotaxi tests to Model S, eyeing premium tier
Tesla brings Model S into Robotaxi trials in California
Tesla expands Robotaxi tests to Model S, eyeing premium tier
Tesla expands its Robotaxi program by testing Model S with lidar-equipped cars in California, exploring new FSD use cases and a potential premium tier.
2025-12-13T16:22:26+03:00
2025-12-13T16:22:26+03:00
2025-12-13T16:22:26+03:00
Tesla has widened its Robotaxi testing program by bringing in Model S sedans. In California, cars have been spotted with lidars and validation equipment that previously appeared only on Model Y crossovers. Until now, such test vehicles were mostly seen on the U.S. East Coast.Model Y is regarded as the base platform for Tesla’s robotaxi effort thanks to its scale and versatility. The appearance of Model S in the trials, however, may indicate checks of new Full Self-Driving use cases and a push to collect additional data. Judging by the sightings, the move feels less like a change of course and more like an attempt to stretch the system’s envelope. Tesla has not officially commented on why the model mix has shifted for these tests.Observers suggest that Tesla could be weighing a higher-end layer for its robotaxi service. In line with competitors’ comfort tiers, Model S could, in theory, serve as a more expensive option for autonomous trips. Elon Musk has previously said that Model S and Model X remain in production despite low volumes, and that their role may evolve over time.For now, this remains a test effort, with no confirmation of a standalone premium service. Even so, using Model S signals that Tesla is still experimenting with the shape of autonomous transport and the way its electric cars serve the city.
Tesla, Robotaxi, Model S, Model Y, Full Self-Driving, FSD, autonomous driving, self-driving tests, lidar, validation equipment, California, premium robotaxi, EVs, autonomy trials
2025
Michael Powers
news
Tesla brings Model S into Robotaxi trials in California
Tesla expands its Robotaxi program by testing Model S with lidar-equipped cars in California, exploring new FSD use cases and a potential premium tier.
Michael Powers, Editor
Tesla has widened its Robotaxi testing program by bringing in Model S sedans. In California, cars have been spotted with lidars and validation equipment that previously appeared only on Model Y crossovers. Until now, such test vehicles were mostly seen on the U.S. East Coast.
Model Y is regarded as the base platform for Tesla’s robotaxi effort thanks to its scale and versatility. The appearance of Model S in the trials, however, may indicate checks of new Full Self-Driving use cases and a push to collect additional data. Judging by the sightings, the move feels less like a change of course and more like an attempt to stretch the system’s envelope. Tesla has not officially commented on why the model mix has shifted for these tests.
Observers suggest that Tesla could be weighing a higher-end layer for its robotaxi service. In line with competitors’ comfort tiers, Model S could, in theory, serve as a more expensive option for autonomous trips. Elon Musk has previously said that Model S and Model X remain in production despite low volumes, and that their role may evolve over time.
For now, this remains a test effort, with no confirmation of a standalone premium service. Even so, using Model S signals that Tesla is still experimenting with the shape of autonomous transport and the way its electric cars serve the city.
