The Tesla CyberCab is a small, prototype electric vehicle designed as a future self-driving robo-taxi. It’s a compact, fully electric car built for urban transportation, featuring advanced Tesla technology and intended for autonomous rides. The Tesla CyberCab has finally been seen charging publicly for the first time. This is a prototype, also referred to as Engineering Prototype 001, spotted in Austin, Texas.
Charging & Exterior Features
- The charging port is functional, though originally intended for wireless charging.
- Includes a weather cap, which is unusual for Teslas.
- The drop-down charging door operates manually, not powered.
- No traditional side mirrors; uses cameras instead.
- Large panel gaps indicate it’s still in prototype/testing phase.
- Heavy-duty ABS polymer panels suggest focus on durability.
Interior & Controls
- Unlike the demo shown by Elon, this prototype has a steering wheel for supervision.
- Dash features aluminum extrusion with tilt lever; unfinished prototype parts visible.
- Seats are large and comfortable, with enough space for a supervising driver.
- Brake lights, windshield wipers, and other controls are functional but simplified.
Steering & Drive System
- Uses steer-by-wire technology; only front wheels steer.
- Prototype is narrower than the original Tesla Roadster.
- Two windshield wipers cover the large windshield.
- Doors feature a pop-out handle mechanism, easy to operate.
Prototypes & VINs
- Multiple prototypes were spotted; both marked with V001, indicating they are early test units.
- VIN numbers differ; some units lack license plates.
Robo Taxi Experience
- Attempted rides in Tesla’s unsupervised robo taxi were unsuccessful.
- All attempts had a supervisory human inside.
- High demand and limited vehicles make public rides unreliable currently.
Key Takeaways
- The CyberCab is real and operational but still a prototype.
- Wireless charging is planned but not yet implemented.
- Focus is on self-driving capability with temporary supervised testing.
- Public access is limited due to high demand and ongoing testing.
- Alternative ride-sharing (Whimo) proved faster and more reliable for immediate rides.
This is the first documented look at Tesla’s CyberCab in action, showing charging, steering, and supervised operation in the real world.
