TLDR
- Tesla’s robotaxi app launched on Apple’s App Store, allowing public users to join the waitlist for autonomous ride-hailing service
- China delivered 83,192 vehicles in August, marking Tesla’s best wholesale month of the year with a 22.5% jump from July
- Turkey sales exploded with 8,730 Model Y units sold, an 86% increase making Tesla the country’s second-best-selling auto brand
- Safety monitors still required in robotaxis as Tesla’s FSD system remains Level 2 autonomy requiring human oversight
- Wall Street maintains Hold rating with average price target of $309, implying 7.55% downside from current levels
Tesla reached two major milestones this week that could reshape its future beyond traditional car sales. The electric vehicle maker opened its robotaxi app to the general public on Apple’s App Store while posting record-breaking sales numbers in China.
The robotaxi app launch represents a big step forward for Tesla’s autonomous driving ambitions. Until now, the service was restricted to select influencers, investors, and early testers in Austin and the San Francisco Bay Area.
Users can now download the app and join a waitlist for the driverless ride-hailing service. The app lets riders request trips, manage ride details, and control vehicle climate and entertainment systems during their journey.
Tesla plans to release an Android version soon to reach even more potential customers. The company’s robotaxi fleet uses Model Y vehicles equipped with Full Self-Driving software.
However, these rides aren’t fully autonomous yet. Safety monitors remain in the vehicles because Tesla’s FSD system operates at Level 2 autonomy, which requires human supervision.
Tesla recently expanded its Austin service area to 190 square miles. The coverage now includes major locations like Giga Texas and Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.
Strong International Sales Performance
Tesla’s international sales delivered impressive results in August. China proved to be the standout market with 83,192 vehicles delivered, representing the company’s best wholesale month of 2025.
This figure marks a 22.5% increase from July’s deliveries. The strong China performance helped offset weaker results in other regions including India and several European markets.
Turkey emerged as another success story for Tesla. The company sold 8,730 Model Y units in the country, marking an 86% jump from the previous month.
This performance made Tesla Turkey’s second-best-selling auto brand. The surge shows Tesla’s growing appeal in emerging markets.
Regulatory and Market Challenges
Tesla faces ongoing regulatory hurdles as it expands its robotaxi service. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating reports of traffic violations by Tesla vehicles during the Austin launch.
California presents another challenge where Tesla needs additional permits to offer fully autonomous rideshare services. These regulatory requirements could slow the company’s expansion plans.
CEO Elon Musk recently suggested the service could reach half of the U.S. population by year-end. The expansion would include Arizona, Nevada, Florida, and other parts of California.
Despite recent gains, Tesla stock remains well below its December 2024 peak of $479.86. The stock currently trades about 30% below that high point.
Wall Street Outlook
Analysts maintain mixed views on Tesla’s prospects. The stock carries a Hold consensus rating based on recent analyst coverage.
Wall Street’s average price target sits at $309, suggesting a 7.55% downside from current trading levels. The rating includes 14 Buy recommendations, 14 Holds, and eight Sell ratings from recent analyst coverage.
Tesla stock has gained 19.7% over the past six months. However, the shares dropped 11.4% from recent highs as broader market concerns about inflation and interest rates weigh on investor sentiment.
The robotaxi app launch on Apple’s App Store represents Tesla’s latest move to commercialize its autonomous driving technology while the company continues expanding its traditional vehicle sales in key international markets.
