Tesla has officially launched the long-awaited, self-driving Cybercab without a steering wheel or pedals, as public rides begin in Texas.
The Cybercab is a two-seater electric vehicle which will be used as a robotaxi starting in Austin, Texas, before rolling out to Tampa, Miami, Dallas and Houston.
Tesla officially unveiled the Cybercab at an exclusive launch in Austin overnight, with the autonomous taxi service carrying paying customers for the first time.
The striking golden colour is meant to signify the “golden age of transport”, according to Tesla owner Elon Musk, who praised the launch on social media.
Posting on X, formerly known as Twitter, Mr Musk described the Cybercab as a “super comfortable lounge on wheels”, and explained why it does not come with features expected to be seen in all cars.
When sitting in the Cybercab, drivers are able to stretch out as there are no pedals, no steering wheel and the centre console is removed.
Mr Musk said the Cybercab was “designed and built for maximally efficient autonomous operation”.
The self-driving car uses camera vision and sensors to navigate streets, whereas other robotaxis use LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology to measure distances using laser light.
Tesla has launched the highly anticipated self-driving Cybercab
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Inside the Cybercab, there is an emergency stop button, a pull-down armrest, a cup holder and a large 22″ infotainment screen that Tesla models have become synonymous with.
The screen comes equipped with theatre mode, music and even gaming apps, allowing drivers to relax or even work while on the move.
Marketing material from Tesla shows someone who has connected their laptop to the screen and is taking a work call, while another scene shows a child being taught maths.
Further enhancements to the Cybercab are expected, with V5 Starlink set to be added in the near future.
The Tesla Cybercab does not have a steering wheel or any pedals
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The Tesla Cybercab will operate as a robotaxi service around Austin, Texas
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Tesla plans to offer ride-hailing services across Florida and Texas soon
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It features a large trunk, similar to the Cybertruck, which has enough space to fit two standard check-in suitcases and two carry-on suitcases.
Tesla has already launched a robotaxi service in Austin made up of Model Ys, although some of them have human safety monitors in the driver’s seat.
The Elon Musk-led brand could come under fire from the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), as vehicles typically require human controls.
A spokesperson for the NHTSA said it was in contact with Tesla and “evaluating the situation”.