Tesla's Wheel-less Cybercab Hits Texas Roads

Tesla has initiated testing of a production-ready, two-seat Cybercab in Austin, Texas. These autonomous robotaxis are being tested with a safety monitor present and notably lack a steering wheel and pedals.

This testing phase follows nearly two years after the Cybercab's initial design reveal. The vehicle is intended to be a fully autonomous robotaxi hailed via the Tesla app. Prototype versions with traditional controls have been observed in various U.S. cities.

A significant regulatory shift is on the horizon, with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration proposing to remove the mandate for brake pedals in vehicles designed for exclusive automated driving. This proposal is expected to be finalized later this year.

Tesla aims to leverage its in-house development of both vehicles and software to out-compete rivals like Waymo. The company is relying solely on cameras for autonomy, contrasting with Waymo's multi-sensor approach. Despite past promises, Tesla has yet to deploy a fully autonomous car at scale.