Tesla is reportedly considering a significant alteration to its highly anticipated Cybercab, which is scheduled to commence production next year. While initially conceived as a fully autonomous vehicle devoid of conventional controls, there's now a strong indication that it might incorporate a steering wheel and pedals, marking a pivotal shift in its design philosophy.
This revelation emerged from an interview with Bloomberg, where Robyn Denholm, Chair of Tesla's Board of Directors, stated the company's openness to including traditional driving mechanisms. She suggested that if market demands or regulatory requirements necessitate it, the Cybercab would be fitted with these controls. Furthermore, Denholm hinted that this adaptable Cybercab could potentially serve as Tesla's more budget-friendly offering, often referred to as the 'Model 2,' positioning it as a more accessible option beneath the premium Model 3 in the electric vehicle lineup. This concept resonates with earlier suggestions from investment firm Gerber Kawasaki's co-founder, Ross Gerber, who advocated for integrating a steering wheel and pedals into the Cybercab platform to create an affordable model, rather than relying on stripped-down versions of existing models. Following Denholm's remarks, Gerber expressed his satisfaction on social media, indicating that Tesla appears to be embracing a more pragmatic approach to vehicle design and marketability.
Amidst these design considerations, the Tesla Cybercab has been observed undergoing testing at various locations, including the Gigafactory in Texas and the Fremont facility in California. This ongoing development coincides with recent statements from Tesla CEO Elon Musk regarding the company's robotaxi ambitions. Musk previously projected that robotaxis in Austin would operate driverless by the end of the year, though he has since scaled back the ambitious goal of serving half of the U.S. population with robotaxis, now focusing on deploying the service in 8-10 major urban centers. This recalibration suggests a measured approach to autonomous vehicle deployment, prioritizing targeted rollouts over a widespread, rapid expansion.
The potential inclusion of a steering wheel and pedals in the Cybercab underscores a pragmatic evolution in Tesla's strategy, balancing innovative autonomous driving technology with practical considerations for market acceptance and affordability. This adaptability not only broadens the Cybercab's appeal but also demonstrates Tesla's responsiveness to evolving consumer needs and regulatory landscapes, reinforcing its commitment to making sustainable transportation accessible to a wider audience.