Elon Musk introduced the long-anticipated Tesla robot taxi, named “Cybercab,” during an event titled “We, Robot” at Warner Bros. Studios near Los Angeles. This title seems to nod to the 2004 sci-fi film “I, Robot.” Musk announced that production for the Cybercab will commence in 2026, with a target price of under $30,000.
Anticipation Builds Among Fans
The unveiling came after delays that left Tesla enthusiasts waiting in anticipation. The online livestream of the event attracted 3.3 million viewers on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
A New Era of Autonomous Driving
During the event, Musk emphasised the arrival of an autonomous future, stating, “We have 50 fully autonomous cars here tonight, including Model Ys and the Cybercab, all driverless.” He highlighted the potential benefits of the Cybercab, saying, “Think about the cumulative time that people spend in a car and the time they will get back to spend on their books, watching movies, or doing work.”
Innovative Design and Safety Features
The Cybercab features a futuristic design with a capacity for two passengers and lacks pedals or a steering wheel, reinforcing its status as a fully autonomous vehicle. Its unique butterfly doors add to the sci-fi aesthetic. Musk pointed out that autonomous vehicles could be 10 to 20 times safer than those driven by humans, estimating operating costs at approximately $0.20 per mile, significantly lower than the $1 per mile typical for city buses.
Tesla’s Vision for the Future
Tesla’s commitment to automation has been a hallmark of Musk’s leadership. With the introduction of the Cybercab, the company aims to advance its vision of fully automated driverless cars. This initiative also includes plans for a taxi service operated through Tesla’s ride-hailing app, a concept Musk has discussed since 2019, although progress has been slow.
Additional Revenue for Tesla Users
According to a TechCrunch report, Musk plans to enable Tesla owners to earn extra income by using their vehicles for the ride-hailing service, with the company taking a commission of around 25-30%. This approach not only enhances the utility of Tesla cars but also encourages users to participate in the emerging autonomous vehicle economy.
