Tesla Inc. is seeking approval to offer ride-hailing services in California, a key step by Elon Musk’s company to begin carrying paying customers while its traditional car-selling business falters.

Beginning Tuesday, rideshare hailers on Uber in Austin, Texas, can call a driverless Waymo, from Google’s parent company, Alphabet, for the first time. Travelers will be able to book rides across 37 square miles in Austin,

Uber is to launch autonomous rides with Waymo in Austin but the rollout of Tesla’s robotaxis, and Waymo’s expansion into other markets, could hit Uber and Lyft.

Related: These parents shun Uber for Waymo for a built-in safety feature Of the move, Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi said “With Waymo’s technology and Uber’s proven platform, we’re excited to introduce our customers to a future of transportation that is increasingly electric and autonomous.

Waymo started providing robotaxi rides via the Uber app in Austin, Texas, on Tuesday. TakeAway Points: On Tuesday, Waymo started using the Uber app to provide robotaxi trips in Austin, Texas. According to the report,

Khosrowshahi added that Uber and Alphabet-owned Waymo ... Tesla or Elon, if you can help it." Tesla did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Door open for Tesla Musk has previously ...

February numbers show the U.S. electric-car maker is struggling to attract buyers in the region. Mr. Musk’s politics aren’t helping.

Uber is shifting into a new gear in Austin, Texas where its ride-hailing service will begin dispatching self-driving cars to pick up passengers looking for a way to get around that city.

Liberals and government employees aren’t the only people angry with Elon Musk. Tesla’s plunging share price means many investors are angry, too.

Tesla has had a turbulent February. Marked by a significant stock decline and growing backlash to Elon Musk's political role.