Tesla is rolling out its robotaxi initiative in New York City, hiring test drivers in Queens to collect data for its autonomous driving systems, but the move has raised eyebrows as the company lacks necessary permits. Announced via job listings on August 12, 2025, the push aligns with CEO Elon Musk’s ambitious goal to offer driverless rides to half the U.S. population by year-end. This professional, reader-friendly news blog examines the initiative, its legal hurdles, and broader implications, crafted for those tracking Tesla’s autonomous ambitions. Tesla’s NYC Robotaxi Plan What’s Happening: Tesla is recruiting “Vehicle Operators, Autopilot” in Flushing, Queens, to drive engineering vehicles for audio and camera data collection, a step toward deploying its Cybercab robotaxi. Musk’s Vision: Musk...