Tesla teases imminent launch of Cybercab ‘robotaxi’

Electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla is hinting at the imminent launch of its self-driving robotaxi, the "Cybercab", to rival competitors such as Uber and Waymo. The company shared a promotional image on social media on Aug 21, promising "exclusive access" to Cybercab rides at an upcoming event in Austin, Texas, where Tesla is based.

The event, announced on the company's website, invites readers to a sweepstake to win a chance to attend the launch. The Cybercab, first unveiled in October 2024, is a gold-colored vehicle designed to transport two passengers and features no steering wheel or pedals. Elon Musk, the company's founder, had previously stated that production of the self-driving cars would commence before 2027, with the vehicles being sold for under US$30,000 to private buyers.

According to The Information, Tesla employees have been informed that the rollout of Cybercab rides will begin on public roads, followed by integration into the company's Robotaxi service in Austin. Rumors have surfaced recently that parking lots have been filled with Cybercabs, indicating a possible imminent launch. In 2025, Tesla introduced its self-driving cars in Austin using Model Y SUVs, with the "Robotaxi" service expanding to several other cities in Texas, Florida, and California.

However, state laws mandate that many of these vehicles must have a human supervisor or driver on standby to take over control if needed. Waymo, Google's self-driving vehicle subsidiary, currently offers its services in 11 US cities.