Tesla Unveils Cybercab, a Steering Wheel-Free Autonomous Vehicle

Company bets big on self-driving car with no manual controls as it aims to transform into AI and robotics firm

Mar. 12, 2026 at 8:46pm

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Tesla has begun rolling out its new Cybercab model, the company's first vehicle since the Cybertruck, which is designed to be controlled entirely by its Full Self-Driving software. The Cybercab, which Tesla plans to produce at a rate of 2 million per year, does away with traditional controls like steering wheels and pedals, raising regulatory hurdles before it can be sold in the U.S. market.

Why it matters

The Cybercab is central to Elon Musk's vision of transforming Tesla from an automaker into an AI and robotics company, as well as powering a driverless ride-hailing network. However, the lack of manual controls poses safety concerns and requires regulatory approval that Tesla has not yet secured.

The details

Tesla plans to make hundreds of Cybercabs per week at its Austin factory, with mass production slated for April. The Cybercab is designed to be controlled entirely by Tesla's Full Self-Driving software, eliminating the need for a steering wheel, pedals, and even side mirrors. This poses a challenge, as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration must approve the vehicle before it can be sold in the U.S., and Tesla has not yet applied for the necessary exemption.

  • Tesla began rolling out the Cybercab at its Austin factory in early 2026.
  • Mass production of the Cybercab is slated to begin in April 2026.
  • Elon Musk unveiled the Cybercab concept in 2024.

The players

Tesla

An American electric vehicle and clean energy company that has been at the forefront of autonomous driving technology.

Elon Musk

The CEO and co-founder of Tesla, who has been driving the company's push to transform into an AI and robotics firm.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

The U.S. government agency responsible for regulating vehicle safety, which must approve the Cybercab before it can be sold in the country.

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What they’re saying

“You can fall asleep and wake up at your destination. It's going to be a glorious future.”

— Elon Musk (newser.com)

“If the software fails, there is nothing for a passenger to grab.”

— Kurt Knutsson, Analyst (Fox News)

“This car either drives itself or it does not drive.”

— Elon Musk (newser.com)

What’s next

Tesla must apply for and receive an exemption from the NHTSA before the Cybercab can be sold in the U.S. market.

The takeaway

Tesla's Cybercab represents a bold and risky bet on the future of autonomous driving, as the company seeks to transform itself into an AI and robotics powerhouse. However, the lack of manual controls poses significant regulatory and safety hurdles that Tesla must overcome before the Cybercab can be widely adopted.