Tesla tests self-driving in Boring Co. tunnels but full autonomy remains distant

Tesla is currently testing self-driving vehicles in the tunnel system operated by Elon Musk’s Boring Co. beneath the Las Vegas Convention Center. Steve Hill, CEO of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA), confirmed to Fortune that autonomous testing began at the end of 2024, prior to Tesla’s robotaxi launch in June, and that all trials have been conducted without passengers [1]. The tests are using Tesla’s standard Full Self-Driving (FSD) software, with a Boring Co. safety operator in the driver’s seat. Thus far, the testing has not resulted in any accidents, though human intervention has been required at times [1].

The tunnel system, which spans 3.5 miles, connects different ends of the Las Vegas Convention Center and includes routes to the Resorts World and Westgate Hotel and Casino. The environment is controlled, with single-lane one-way tunnels and limited entry points, which Hill said presents a “much easier environment” for autonomous operation than public roads [1]. However, the system’s cameras—Tesla does not use radar or LiDAR—face challenges due to the tunnel’s colorful lighting and rock walls, which create unusual visual conditions for the self-driving software [1].

Hill, who awarded Boring Co. its first transportation contract and has overseen its initial construction efforts, noted that the company is responsible for operating the vehicles, though Tesla’s specific role in the testing remains unclear beyond providing the vehicles and software [1]. While Boring Co. and Musk have suggested that fully autonomous operation is a long-term goal, Hill emphasized that removing the safety drivers will depend on demonstrating safety and earning public trust. “I think it’s a ways off,” he said, adding that the LVCVA may bring in a consultant before making that decision [1].

The Boring Co. has been working on expanding its underground network and recently began constructing a tunnel to connect the Las Vegas Convention Center with the local airport. Human drivers will operate the Tesla vehicles on the surface once they exit the tunnel, similar to ride-hailing services [1]. The company has not yet received the necessary permits to dig within city limits, including along Las Vegas Boulevard, and has also announced plans to begin tunneling in Nashville [1].

The LVCVA has taken a more active role in safety oversight since a series of incidents were reported in the tunnels last year, including chemical burns among workers, excavation too close to the monorail, and a concrete bin collapse. OSHA has issued several serious violations to Boring Co., which the company is appealing. An appellate hearing had been postponed to later this year [1]. Hill said he appointed an LVCVA employee to oversee Boring Co.’s work and has not been aware of any further major safety issues since that time [1].

While the current system is not the high-speed hyperloop envisioned by Musk—where electric pods would travel at over 600 miles per hour—Hill expressed pride in the existing tunnel network, which he described as “the highest rated feature” at the Convention Center. He attributed delays in expansion to permit holdups, stating, “We’re holding them back. They’re not holding us back.” [1]

Despite the progress, full autonomy remains a distant goal. Hill stressed the importance of ensuring the system is “exceptionally well” and “instills confidence” before allowing riders to travel in autonomous vehicles. Until that point, the LVCVA will maintain a cautious approach, prioritizing safety and public trust in the technology [1].

Source: [1] Tesla self driving cars are being tested in Boring Co. tunnels in Las Vegas, but full autonomy is still ‘a ways off,’ Convention Center exec says (https://fortune.com/2025/08/26/tesla-self-driving-cars-testing-boring-co-tunnels-las-vegas/)