Tesla has moved forward with new trademark applications for the term “Tesla Robotaxi,” following previous setbacks in its efforts to trademark terms related to its forthcoming autonomous ride-hailing service.
The electric automaker initially attempted to trademark “Robotaxi” and “Cybercab” in October 2024. However, these earlier applications encountered obstacles from the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Last month, the USPTO requested additional details from Tesla to proceed with the “Robotaxi” trademark, noting the term was broadly used among other companies such as Waymo. Meanwhile, Tesla’s trademark bid for “Cybercab” was outright rejected due to extensive use of the prefix “cyber” by multiple entities across various industries.
In response, Tesla has refined its approach by filing three new trademark applications specifically targeting the phrase “Tesla Robotaxi.” These filings align directly with Tesla’s plans to roll out testing of its autonomous vehicles and related service in Austin, Texas, later this month. The trademarks, if ultimately approved, would cover Tesla’s intended ride-hailing services, the accompanying mobile application, and the self-driving vehicles themselves. Still, the new applications aren’t expected to be processed before testing begins, as trademark reviews typically require several months before an examiner even begins evaluation.
Additionally, Tesla has active trademark applications for other names, including “Robobus,” “Robus,” and “Cyberbus.” These names appear linked to a van-style autonomous vehicle concept Tesla revealed last October alongside its Cybercab prototype. During the unveiling, CEO Elon Musk referenced this vehicle as a “Robovan,” a term already trademarked by the Estonian robotic delivery startup Starship, complicating potential use by Tesla.
