Tesla CEO Elon Musk unveiled the highly anticipated “Cybercab” robotaxi Thursday night, promising a future of driverless transportation. However, the sleek, AI-powered vehicle, which lacks steering wheels or pedals, won’t be available for at least another three years, The Associated Press reports.
While Tesla began selling its “Full Self-Driving” software nine years ago, doubts linger about its reliability.
The Cybercabs are expected to cost under $30,000 and become available in 2026, with a possible early rollout before 2027. Musk also announced plans to expand the availability of Full Self-Driving technology to Tesla’s popular Model 3 and Model Y vehicles in Texas and California next year.
“If they’re going to eventually get to robotaxis, they first need to have success with the unsupervised FSD at the current lineup,” said Seth Goldstein, equity strategist at Morningstar Research. “Tonight’s event showed they’re ready to take that step forward.”
Tesla showcased several Cybercabs, giving attendees rides within the studio lot, but not on public roads. The company also presented a self-driving minibus, capable of carrying up to 20 passengers, and several Optimus humanoid robots, which demonstrated walking and dancing abilities.
Musk estimated the robots would cost between $28,000 – $30,000 and be capable of tasks like babysitting, mowing lawns, and grocery shopping.
The announcement comes amidst ongoing scrutiny of Tesla’s Full Self-Driving system. The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating the system based on evidence that it inadequately ensures driver attention. In February, NHTSA forced Tesla to recall Full Self-Driving due to violations of traffic laws, particularly near intersections. Tesla was instructed to resolve the issues via a software update.
A fatal crash involving a Tesla using Full Self-Driving in Washington state last April further intensifies concerns. The driver, who admitted to using the system while looking at his phone, collided with a motorcyclist, resulting in the rider’s death. NHTSA is currently examining information about the crash from both Tesla and law enforcement officials.
The Justice Department has also requested information from Tesla regarding Full Self-Driving, Autopilot, and other matters.
