• Tesla has secured its first permit from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) to operate a transportation charter-party carrier service, which is a necessary step towards launching its robotaxi service. However, this permit does not authorize Tesla to provide rides in autonomous vehicles or operate a public ride-hailing service at this stage. The company has yet to apply for additional permits required for a fully autonomous robotaxi service, which includes approvals from the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

• The approval comes as Tesla's sales growth has begun to slow, prompting CEO Elon Musk to shift focus towards the rollout of robotaxis. The company previously unveiled the Cybercab, a concept for a driverless taxi without traditional controls. While this initial permit is a positive development, Tesla must navigate a complex regulatory landscape and secure further approvals to realize its vision of a fully operational robotaxi fleet.