Washington, November 14.
U.S. electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla is set to allow some selected customers to purchase its driverless electric car, the “Cybercab,” for personal use.
Tesla announced via social media X on Friday that certain customers have been invited to purchase the Cybercab for personal purposes.
Unveiled in October 2024, the two-seater Cybercab features no steering wheel or pedals. This vehicle is already operational under Tesla’s “robotaxi” service in several U.S. cities.
According to images released by Tesla, the estimated price of the Cybercab is set at $29,990, excluding taxes. The company estimates that deliveries will begin in December.
To purchase the Cybercab, customers must pay a non-refundable advance deposit of $1,000. Additionally, a monthly subscription fee of $299 has been established for the autonomous driving feature.
Tesla launched its automated taxi service last year in Austin using Model Y SUVs. Subsequently, the service was expanded to other cities in Texas, Florida, and California. However, under laws enforced in various U.S. states, the presence of a human driver or supervisor is mandatory to take control of the vehicle when necessary.
Meanwhile, Waymo, the autonomous vehicle subsidiary of Google’s parent company Alphabet, operates its robotaxi service in 11 U.S. cities.
In September, U.S. vehicle safety regulators initiated an investigation into the Cybercab. Regulators raised questions over how the vehicle—lacking a steering wheel, pedals, and even side mirrors—meets federal safety standards.
Tesla, however, has maintained that the Cybercab will be safe and accessible even for individuals with disabilities. According to the company, it will expand access to clean transportation for everyone.
— RSS/AFP
