News Summary

Tesla is encountering hurdles in its attempt to trademark the terms ‘Robotaxi’ and ‘Cybercab’ for its upcoming electric vehicles and ride-hailing service. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has refused the ‘Robotaxi’ trademark, deeming it too generic. The application, submitted in October 2024, coincided with the reveal of Tesla’s Cybercab, a purpose-built electric vehicle aimed at autonomous ride-hailing. The USPTO has also halted Tesla’s trademark applications for ‘Cybercab’ due to competing trademark applications related to ‘Cyber’ from other companies. Tesla has three months to respond to the USPTO’s ‘nonfinal office action’ with evidence and arguments supporting its case. The ‘Robotaxi’ application for transportation services, including ridesharing and vehicle rentals, is still under review.