Tesla is expected to launch their paid robotaxi service next month in Austin, Texas. While the company plans to use Model Ys for this robotaxi fleet, they also plan to produce a dedicted robotaxi vehicle, the Cybercab, in 2026. However, plans to trademark the term “Robotaxi” has hit a bump in the road with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
According to recently published documents first reported by TechCrunch, the USPTO has refused Tesla’s application to trademark the term “Robotaxi” in connection with its electric vehicles, citing the term as “merely descriptive” and “generic.” The decision stems from a review by a USPTO examiner, who concluded that the term is commonly used by others to describe autonomous taxis and therefore does not qualify for exclusive use by Tesla.
Tesla’s application covered the use of the term in reference to land vehicles, electric automobiles, and structural vehicle components.
The rejection was issued as a “nonfinal office action,” giving Tesla a three-month window to respond with evidence or arguments to support its claim. To bolster its case, the automaker will need to provide detailed documentation, including marketing materials, instruction manuals, and website screenshots showing how it uniquely uses the term in its branding.
Separately, Tesla’s efforts to trademark “Cybercab” have also been delayed. The USPTO has not yet issued a decision, but the application has been flagged due to a high volume of competing “Cyber”-related trademarks, including those filed by companies offering aftermarket accessories for the Tesla Cybertruck.
Tesla also filed two trademark applications for the term “Robobus” on October 10, intended to cover future autonomous shuttles or transit vehicles. These applications remain under review.
Tesla’s parallel application for the “Robotaxi” trademark in connection with transportation services — such as ride-sharing, vehicle rentals, and travel coordination — is still pending. It was assigned to a USPTO examiner on April 14, but no ruling has been made as of yet.
You can read the USPTO documentation below.
