Tesla plans Cybercab sales this year despite regulatory scrutiny
Tesla intends to begin selling its autonomous two-seat Cybercab to customers by the end of the year while federal regulators examine whether it meets safety standards. An engineering executive said current Cybercab production will go to Tesla's own robotaxi fleet, with customer deliveries starting gradually. CEO Elon Musk also said unsupervised Full Self-Driving would reach owners in the second quarter of next year.
Tesla intends to offer its two-seat Cybercab for purchase before the year ends, according to the article. Engineering vice president Lars Moravy said vehicles built now will join Tesla’s robotaxi operation, with sales to outside customers beginning on a small scale and expanding as the company learns about vehicle handoffs, ownership, and managing fleets.
The federal auto safety agency opened a review of the Cybercab shortly after it began operating on Austin streets. Existing safety rules call for manual controls and mirrors; Tesla self-certified compliance, while regulators are assessing the certification basis. Musk also said unsupervised Full Self-Driving would reach owners in next year’s second quarter.
The Cybercab’s rollout could affect ride-hailing drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and city regulators as autonomous vehicles enter public streets. If sales proceed, fleet operators may gain new transport options, while safety agencies may face pressure to clarify rules for vehicles without manual controls. Tesla owners awaiting unsupervised driving software may also see expectations shift, and public trust may depend on how the federal review and gradual deployments unfold.