Musk: Tesla Robotaxi's Main Challenge Is Spotting Grey Kittens in the Dark

Tesla extended Austin Robotaxi hours to 11 p.m. on Oct. 3, 2026. Musk cited detecting small animals on dark pavement as the key limit on further nighttime expansion. NHTSA is investigating Tesla's camera system for hazard detection in reduced visibility.

• Austin Robotaxi now runs until 11 p.m., one hour later than before
• Musk: challenge is spotting grey kittens on grey tarmac in the dark
• NHTSA probes Tesla cameras for low-visibility hazard detection
• Waymo pairs cameras with lidar and radar sensors