Tag: Cybercab

  • Robotaxi Tests Shuttle Service with Dummy Steering, Tesla Launches Cybercab Merch

    Robotaxi Tests Shuttle Service with Dummy Steering, Tesla Launches Cybercab Merch

    Tesla is currently conducting tests for its Cybercab ride-share service at its Gigafactory in Texas, where mass production is expected to start in 2026, assuming Elon Musk can navigate the autonomous vehicle regulations effectively by that time.

    Fleet Launch Plans

    To begin, Tesla plans to utilize a fleet of its existing vehicles to provide a driverless shuttle service on the Cybercab platform for employees in Texas and California. This is part of the so-called unsupervised Full Self-Driving (FSD) phase, which requires demonstration that the self-driving technology is safer than human drivers. Elon Musk insists this will all happen within the next three months, aiming to roll out unsupervised FSD by year-end in select cities across these two states.

    Regulatory Challenges

    However, even this stage of the Robotaxi rollout will face significant regulatory hurdles, not to mention the challenges for a fully driverless Cybercab that lacks both steering wheels and pedals. It remains uncertain whether Tesla can meet its self-imposed timeline. Musk’s optimism might be linked to his new role leading a fresh Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which he claims will advance federal regulations for autonomous vehicles, benefiting all electric vehicle makers.

    Public Sentiment and Speculation

    Despite this, experts are doubtful about the likelihood of getting approval for any car without steering wheels or pedals on public roads in the near future. This is why a recent drone flight over Giga Texas that captured the Cybercab seemingly driving with what appeared to be a steering wheel generated so much excitement.

    Many hoped Tesla would include a steering wheel at launch to expedite regulatory approval. Others speculated that this could be the much-anticipated Model 2/Q, which was supposed to launch before the Cybercab, and would be built on the same platform.

    Reality Check

    In truth, the supposed steering wheel was probably just an optical illusion, like a shadow of the A-pillar cast on the tinted windshield or a seat belt draped over a passenger dummy. The Cybercab appeared to be dropping off passengers and moving away, which are tests Tesla must conduct for its planned employee shuttle service.

    Even if the object was indeed a steering wheel, it could have been an engineering control device, similar to those used by Tesla to navigate the Cybercab in settings like ramps or showrooms where it frequently appears. When asked how the Cybercab reached its spot at a recent Brussels auto expo, the Tesla team jokingly said “magic” with smiles, and then added, “if there’s a computer inside, anything is possible,” suggesting some manual control could be involved.

    Merchandise for Fans

    Regardless, it seems like the American public will have to wait quite a while before the Cybercab can provide ride-share services through Tesla’s dedicated platform on public streets. In the meantime, Tesla is rolling out special merchandise to keep its fans engaged until the launch.

    The Cybercab is now featured in Tesla’s apparel store, with a black T-shirt showcasing its logo and silhouette on the front, and the Tesla wordmark on the back. The Cybercab Tee is priced at $40 and is said to be inspired by the Cybercab launch event to complement its gold exterior.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Tesla CyberCab Display in LA, Chicago, and 3 More Cities This Weekend

    Tesla CyberCab Display in LA, Chicago, and 3 More Cities This Weekend

    Tesla is increasing the excitement around its CyberCab by showcasing the vehicle at five new sites throughout the United States this weekend. The company is eager to create interest in its fully self-driving ride-share system. The CyberCab will be open for public viewing at:

    Affordable Pricing and Specs

    Touted as one of the least expensive options from Tesla (excluding the Model Q), the CyberCab is available for less than $30,000. It utilizes only 40% of the components found in the Tesla Model Y while providing the advantage of Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology. Elon Musk has continually highlighted the car’s simple two-seater layout, designed to maximize efficiency and low cost. The CyberCab ride-share service will also incorporate redundancy systems similar to those used by Waymo, such as teleoperation. Tesla aims to launch this service in states like California and Texas, where regulations concerning autonomy are more lenient.

    A Strategic Move for Tesla

    In summary, these new showcases represent another vital step in Tesla’s ongoing effort to make consumers more familiar with its first dedicated self-driving vehicle. While earlier displays have merely piqued public interest (and stirred debate), this upcoming event is intended to further strengthen the CyberCab’s status as a leader in the growing autonomous ride-hailing market. Rivals such as Alphabet’s Waymo and Amazon’s Zoox are working hard to gain a strong foothold. Waymo, in particular, has been broadening its robotaxi offerings in cities like San Francisco and Phoenix.

    Looking Ahead

    As the weekend nears, eager attendees at these locations can witness firsthand what might soon become a significant part of city transport.

    Source: Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Tesla Launches $30,000 Robotaxi with No Steering Wheels or Pedals

    Tesla Launches $30,000 Robotaxi with No Steering Wheels or Pedals

    Tesla has finally unveiled its long-awaited robotaxi, previously known as "Cybercab" and "Robotaxi," at an event on Thursday night. The striking two-seater vehicle features a cutting-edge design, including butterfly doors and wireless charging capabilities. The most notable aspect, however, is that it completely lacks a steering wheel. This vehicle is intended for a future where passengers can sit back and allow the car to manage the driving. Despite this, questions linger about its self-driving abilities. Let’s dive into the specifics.

    Cybercab Makes an Impression

    To kick things off, the Cybercab is certainly a showstopper. It was presented with a gold finish and has a light bar that appears to hold matrix headlights, drawing parallels to the Cybertruck. Moreover, it’s not just the absence of a steering wheel that’s interesting; this model has no pedals or even a rear window. Instead, it depends entirely on cameras and sensors to provide a complete view of its environment. In a dramatic moment, Tesla’s CEO, Elon Musk, made a grand entrance on stage while seated inside the Cybercab.

    The Interior Experience

    Inside, the atmosphere resembles that of a lounge, and passengers can enjoy generous cargo space thanks to its large hatchback trunk. One of the standout features is the wireless induction charging. This vehicle is the first from Tesla to eliminate the traditional charging port. However, the event didn’t clarify important technical specifics, such as the battery capacity or charging speed. Inductive charging utilizes electromagnetic fields to transfer energy from a pad to the battery, allowing for a cable-free experience. Musk stated, “The robotaxi has no plug. It just goes over the inductive charger and charges. So, yeah, that’s kind of how it should be.”

    Questions About Autonomy

    Now, let’s tackle the main concern — the self-driving technology. Tesla has been claiming fully autonomous driving for several years now, but even models with the “Full Self-Driving (FSD)” package still require human oversight. This raises concerns about the Cybercab’s absence of driver controls. Musk insists that the Cybercab uses the latest Tesla AI5 computer and operates purely on camera systems. He also mentioned plans to enable unsupervised Full Self-Driving in specific areas next year for current models. However, this promise has been repeated for the last five years. Furthermore, data indicates that Tesla must significantly improve its disengagement rates (the instances when a human driver must take over) before unsupervised driving can be realized. Thus, skepticism about Musk’s assertions remains.

    Price and Future Outlook

    Regarding price and release, Musk indicated that production for the Cybercab would start “before 2027,” with an expected cost of under $30,000. However, we must remember that Tesla’s second-generation Roadster, first revealed in 2017, still hasn’t begun series production. Therefore, there’s no assurance that the Cybercab won’t encounter similar delays. The anticipation is high, but only time will reveal if Tesla and Musk can fulfill these commitments.

    Image 1
    Image 1
    Image 1
    Tags: , ,