Tesla has launched its driverless two-seater Cybercab for public rides in Austin, Texas, beginning this evening. The vehicle, which lacks a steering wheel and brake pedals, is now operating as part of Tesla's Robotaxi ride-hail network in select cities, including Austin and parts of Florida. The rollout comes even as the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened an investigation into whether the Cybercab complies with current federal safety standards. The probe, known as an Audit Query, will review the data and methodology Tesla used to claim its vehicles meet existing rules. NHTSA Administrator Jonathan Morrison stated the agency supports automated vehicle development but must ensure all laws are followed.
Currently, federal regulations still require traditional vehicle features like brake pedals and rearview mirrors, though the agency is revising eight rules to better accommodate autonomous vehicles. Companies with unconventional designs must apply for exemptions to operate commercially. Amazon-owned Zoox received such an exemption this summer, limited to 2,500 vehicles. Tesla, however, asserts it does not need one because it claims full compliance. The investigation could lead to required changes or civil penalties; in 2023, Volvo Group North America paid $130 million after a recall-related probe. Tesla has 45 Cybercabs in Texas, with plans to deploy millions annually. The Cybercab reflects CEO Elon Musk's vision of Tesla as a robotics and autonomous systems company, not just an automaker.
Tesla is launching a vehicle it claims meets safety rules while under federal review for how it reached that conclusion. This raises questions about the reliability of self-certification in emerging autonomous vehicle technology. The outcome could influence how strictly other companies must justify compliance when deploying driverless fleets.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion, not established fact. Full disclaimer →
