WASHINGTON: (News Desk) – Tesla is preparing to unveil its dedicated self-driving robotaxi, known as the Cybercab, as the electric vehicle maker looks to challenge autonomous ride-hailing operators such as Uber and Waymo.
The Elon Musk-led company shared a promotional image on social media on Friday, announcing an event in Austin, Texas, on September 3. Tesla said selected guests could receive “exclusive access” to Cybercabs during the event.
The company is also running a sweepstakes through its website, offering fans an opportunity to attend the Austin launch celebration.
First revealed in October 2024, the futuristic gold-colored Cybercab is designed to carry two passengers. Unlike Tesla’s existing vehicles, it has no steering wheel or conventional pedals, reflecting the company’s vision of fully autonomous transportation.
At its original unveiling, Musk said Tesla aimed to begin producing the Cybercab before 2027, with plans to eventually offer the vehicle to private customers for less than $30,000.
Reports from The Information suggest the initial rollout could begin with Tesla employees using Cybercabs on public roads. The vehicles could then be added to Tesla’s Robotaxi network in Austin.
Recent sightings of large numbers of Cybercabs in parking areas have further fueled speculation that Tesla is preparing for a wider launch.
Tesla began testing its autonomous ride-hailing service in Austin last year using modified Model Y vehicles. The Robotaxi operation has since expanded gradually into additional locations across Texas, Florida and California.
However, regulatory requirements in several areas mean that many autonomous vehicles must still have a human supervisor or safety driver available to intervene when necessary.
Tesla’s planned Cybercab launch comes as competition in the autonomous mobility sector intensifies. Waymo, the self-driving subsidiary of Alphabet, currently operates commercial services across 11 US cities.
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