technology
Tesla begins testing production Cybercab without steering wheel or pedals in Austin
Tesla has started road testing a two-seat Cybercab model that lacks traditional controls, with a safety monitor present. The tests follow a federal proposal that would remove the brake-pedal requirement for fully automated vehicles.
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Tesla has begun testing a production version of its Cybercab in Austin, Texas. The vehicle has two seats and no steering wheel or pedals. Testing is currently conducted with a safety monitor seated in the right passenger position. A video of the test was posted on X. The current tests come nearly two years after Tesla first showed the Cybercab design intended for fully autonomous operation.
Post by @SawyerMerritt on X
Background on prior testing Roughly one year ago, Tesla began operating a limited robotaxi service in Austin using Model Y SUVs, some of which have carried safety monitors. Prototype Cybercab vehicles equipped with steering wheels and pedals have been tested in multiple U.S. cities in recent weeks. Hundreds of the vehicles have also been parked in lots in some of those cities.
Regulatory context Last week the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration proposed rules that would not require brake pedals in vehicles designed for automated driving systems only. The proposal remains open for public comment and is expected to be finalized later this year.
Tesla has stated that building both the vehicles and the driving software will allow greater cost control than competitors that rely on partnerships for vehicles. The company is also developing a camera-only autonomous system, in contrast to competitors that use additional sensors such as lidar and radar.
