Tesla teases imminent launch of Cybercab ‘robotaxi’

Tesla is generating buzz ahead of the official unveiling of its self-driving robotaxi, codenamed Cybercab, as the tech company aims to rival competitors like Uber and Waymo. The announcement was made via a promotional image shared on social media, hinting at an exclusive event in Austin, Texas, where Tesla is based. The company invited potential attendees to a sweepstakes offering a chance to attend the event.

First revealed in October 2024, the Cybercab is a gold-colored vehicle designed to accommodate two passengers and is notable for being the first Tesla automobile without a steering wheel or pedals. Elon Musk, the founder of the company, had previously stated that production of the self-driving cars would commence before 2027, with the aim of selling them to private buyers for less than US$30,000.

Sources indicate that Tesla employees will initially be among the first to experience Cybercab rides on public roads, with the vehicle subsequently becoming part of the company's Robotaxi service in Austin. Reports from Tesla enthusiasts suggest that parking lots have recently been filled with Cybercabs, fueling speculation about the imminent launch of the self-driving car.

The Robotaxi service, which was first introduced in Austin using Model Y SUVs, has since expanded to several other cities in Texas, Florida, and California. However, state regulations generally mandate the presence of a human supervisor or driver in the vehicle, prepared to take control if necessary. Waymo, Google's self-driving vehicle subsidiary, currently offers its services in 11 US cities.