Tesla Cybercab Program Manager Departs Ahead of Launch

Victor Nechita leaves Tesla after nearly 6 years as the company faces declining sales and prepares to start production of its autonomous robotaxi.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Victor Nechita, the vehicle program manager for Tesla's Cybercab, is departing the company just weeks before the scheduled start of production for the autonomous robotaxi. Nechita's exit comes as Tesla has seen declining sales over the past two years and is pinning major revenue hopes on the Cybercab and its broader Robotaxi services.

Why it matters

Nechita's departure is a significant loss for Tesla as he has been a key leader in the development of the Cybercab, which Elon Musk has touted as crucial to the company's future. The exit of this senior executive, along with several other high-profile departures in recent months, raises questions about Tesla's ability to execute on its ambitious product roadmap amid broader business challenges.

The details

Nechita, who has been with Tesla for almost six years, announced his departure in a LinkedIn post, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to lead the Cybercab development team. His exit follows that of other senior Tesla leaders, including the Model Y program manager and the vice president of software engineering. Tesla has not commented on Nechita's departure, but it comes as the company works to meet an April deadline to begin Cybercab production at its Gigafactory Texas facility.

  • Cybercab production is scheduled to start in April 2026.
  • Nechita announced his departure in a LinkedIn post in February 2026.

The players

Victor Nechita

The vehicle program manager for Tesla's Cybercab, who is departing the company after nearly six years.

Elon Musk

The CEO of Tesla, who has touted the Cybercab as a key to the company's future.

Tesla Inc.

The electric vehicle manufacturer that is developing the Cybercab autonomous robotaxi.

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What they’re saying

“Leading the team through the development of Cybercab has been a humbling experience, watching so many dedicated individuals develop a product that has pushed the boundaries of efficiency, safety, and affordability.”

— Victor Nechita, Vehicle Program Manager (LinkedIn)

What’s next

Tesla will need to find a replacement for Nechita to oversee the final development and launch of the Cybercab as the company works to meet its April production target.

The takeaway

Nechita's departure is a significant loss for Tesla as it prepares to launch the Cybercab, a crucial product for the company's future. The exit of this senior executive, along with other high-profile departures, raises concerns about Tesla's ability to execute on its ambitious plans amid broader business challenges.