Tesla CEO Musk unveils ‘Cybercab’ robotaxi as focus shifts to automation
In a high-energy event held at Warner Bros. studio on Thursday, Tesla CEO Elon Musk showcased the company’s ambitious shift from traditional automaking to robotics, unveiling a groundbreaking robotaxi and a new robovan. The event, titled “We, Robot,” highlighted Musk’s vision for a future dominated by autonomous vehicles.
Musk introduced the “Cybercab,” a sleek, steering wheel-less vehicle featuring gull-wing doors, set to begin production in 2026 at a projected price of under $30,000. He claimed operation costs could be as low as 20 cents per mile, thanks to an innovative inductive charging system that eliminates the need for plugs. “The autonomous future is here,” Musk proclaimed, presenting a fleet of 50 fully autonomous vehicles, including Model Ys and the Cybercab, all operating without drivers.
Alongside the Cybercab, Musk unveiled the “Robovan,” designed to accommodate up to 20 passengers. He also highlighted Tesla’s Optimus humanoid robot, further emphasizing the company’s dedication to AI and robotics.
Musk’s plan includes creating a fleet of self-driving Tesla taxis available for passengers to hail via an app. Individual Tesla owners will have the opportunity to list their vehicles as robotaxis, generating additional income.
Despite the excitement surrounding the innovations, some investors expressed disappointment over the lack of specific timelines regarding production, regulatory approval, and strategic plans to outpace competitors like Alphabet’s Waymo. Dennis Dick, an equity trader at Triple D Trading, voiced concerns, stating, “Everything looks cool, but not much in terms of timelines. I think the market wanted more definitive information.”
Musk acknowledged his optimistic approach to forecasting timelines, leaving some attendees eager for clearer insights into Tesla’s path forward in the competitive landscape of autonomous vehicles.
