‘Car Access’ sets scene for Robotaxi

Tesla’s new ‘Car Access’ feature is a step towards introducing Robotaxi-like capabilities.

It allows an owner to grant people access to their vehicle, including the ability to locate a vehicle, unlock and remote start it, and provides general full access to vehicle controls via Tesla’s mobile app,  Teslarati reports.

“Car Access allows you to add and remove access permission for an additional driver. You can add and remove additional drivers at any time from your Tesla Account,” Tesla says on its Account Support page.

People invited through the Car Access feature can utilise the Tesla app to control the EV’s essential functions, but it excludes Roadside Assistance and Purchasing Upgrades.

It’s a significant development for Tesla’s Robotaxi fleet, Teslarati adds.

The company has continued to evolve its Autopilot and Full Self-Driving suite through a series of software updates.

Tesla chief executive Elon Musk has indicated the Robotaxi fleet could become operational in 2021 in some markets.

Those Tesla owners in the Robotaxi service could make up to US$30,000 annually through placing their EVs into the Tesla Network, allowing on-demand access to transport, Teslarati

says.