Tesla’s attempt to secure exclusive rights to the word “Robotaxi” just hit a major roadblock.
According to a recent TechCrunch report, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has rejected Tesla’s trademark application for the term “Robotaxi,” calling it too generic.
The agency issued what’s known as a “nonfinal office action,” meaning Tesla has three months to respond before the application is officially tossed out.
The rejected trademark was intended for use on Tesla vehicles and parts, particularly as the company gears up for its long-awaited autonomous ride-hailing service. Tesla initially filed for the trademark in October 2024, the same day it revealed the Cybercab, its upcoming purpose-built robotaxi vehicle.
Why Was It Rejected?
The USPTO didn’t find any conflicts with other trademarks, but the issue lies in the descriptive nature of the term. The examiner argued that “Robotaxi” has been widely used by others in the industry to describe autonomous vehicles offering taxi services, making it too generic for trademark protection.
Tesla now has to prove that its use of “Robotaxi” is unique and brand-specific. That means providing evidence like brochures, ads, manuals, and even website screenshots showing how Tesla uses the term differently than others in the space.
What About Cybercab and Robobus?
This isn’t the only setback. Applications for “Cybercab”, have been paused due to trademark conflicts with other companies, including at least one that’s filed trademarks for Cybertruck aftermarket accessories.
Tesla also filed applications for the term “Robobus”, which are still under review.
There’s Still Another Shot
Interestingly, Tesla has a second trademark application for “Robotaxi,” but that one focuses on transportation services like ride-sharing, vehicle rentals, and travel coordination. That filing hasn’t been rejected yet, it’s still being reviewed.
The Bigger Picture
Even if the USPTO doesn’t approve the trademarks, Tesla is still moving forward with plans to launch its autonomous ride-hailing service, possibly starting in Austin, Texas. The service will eventually feature a dedicated fleet of Cybercabs, but for now, Tesla will likely use modified Model Y vehicles equipped with Full Self-Driving (FSD).
If you’ve been following the Robotaxi hype, this development may not stop Tesla, but it’s definitely a speed bump in the race toward fully autonomous, brand-owned ride-hailing.
Source: TechCrunch
Image Credit: Tesla