Tesla has filed new trademark applications for "Tesla Robotaxi." This comes after previous attempts to secure trademarks for its autonomous ride-hailing service ran into hurdles with the USPTO.
The issue started when Tesla first applied in October 2024 for the trademarks "Robotaxi" and "Cybercab." The USPTO recently informed the company that it needs more details on "Robotaxi," which faces competition from other companies, including Waymo. Tesla’s "Cybercab" application was halted entirely due to a crowded trademark space around the term "Cyber."
Soon after, Tesla pivoted to the more specific “Tesla Robotaxi” for its upcoming autonomous ride-hailing app and vehicles. However, it’s unlikely the applications will get reviewed in time for their planned testing in Austin, Texas, later this month. Trademark reviews usually take months. 
Tesla isn’t stopping there. The company also has trademarks pending for “Robobus,” “Robus,” and “Cyberbus” for a concept vehicle teased last October. During that event, CEO Elon Musk referred to the van-like vehicle as the “Robovan.” However, Starship, an Estonian robotic delivery company, already owns the trademark for "Robovan."
Stay tuned as the trademark saga unfolds.
