- Sat Jun 07, 2025 3:55 pm
#10051
Tesla Model Y Juniper: Robotaxi or Not? Waymo Killer?
After a 48-hour test drive in Los Angeles with the 2026 Model Y Juniper and its Full Self-Driving (FSD) v13.2.9, I’m convinced: this is essentially a robotaxi experience. While technically supervised, I experienced numerous completely hands-off, door-to-door journeys. Is this a true Waymo competitor?
My experience with Waymo in Los Angeles has been extensive. Waymo's geofencing is a major constraint. Tesla’s FSD doesn't have that limitation, offering broader access, though posing greater developmental challenges. Within Waymo's operational areas, it's arguably smoother and more confident, but Tesla is rapidly closing the gap.
Compared to other ADAS systems like GM Super Cruise, Ford Bluecruise, and Rivian Highway Assist, Tesla's FSD is significantly more ambitious. While those systems handle highway driving well, they're not designed for complex urban environments or point-to-point autonomous navigation.
Safety remains a key concern with any autonomous driving system. FSD isn't perfect, and incidents like the one highlighted by Bloomberg underscore the ongoing need for vigilance. However, my experience suggests the benefits of ADAS outweigh the risks, especially compared to the dangers posed by distracted human drivers.
The big question: are we ready for robotaxis? Is the technology truly mature enough to handle the complexities and unpredictability of real-world driving? Where does Tesla’s approach fall on the spectrum of safety and practicality? Share your thoughts, experiences, and predictions. Let’s discuss the future of autonomous driving.
After a 48-hour test drive in Los Angeles with the 2026 Model Y Juniper and its Full Self-Driving (FSD) v13.2.9, I’m convinced: this is essentially a robotaxi experience. While technically supervised, I experienced numerous completely hands-off, door-to-door journeys. Is this a true Waymo competitor?
My experience with Waymo in Los Angeles has been extensive. Waymo's geofencing is a major constraint. Tesla’s FSD doesn't have that limitation, offering broader access, though posing greater developmental challenges. Within Waymo's operational areas, it's arguably smoother and more confident, but Tesla is rapidly closing the gap.
Compared to other ADAS systems like GM Super Cruise, Ford Bluecruise, and Rivian Highway Assist, Tesla's FSD is significantly more ambitious. While those systems handle highway driving well, they're not designed for complex urban environments or point-to-point autonomous navigation.
Safety remains a key concern with any autonomous driving system. FSD isn't perfect, and incidents like the one highlighted by Bloomberg underscore the ongoing need for vigilance. However, my experience suggests the benefits of ADAS outweigh the risks, especially compared to the dangers posed by distracted human drivers.
The big question: are we ready for robotaxis? Is the technology truly mature enough to handle the complexities and unpredictability of real-world driving? Where does Tesla’s approach fall on the spectrum of safety and practicality? Share your thoughts, experiences, and predictions. Let’s discuss the future of autonomous driving.
- By Anonymous