Tesla has taken another visible step toward its autonomous transportation ambitions by launching engineering tests of the first production-spec Cybercab on public roads in Austin, Texas.

Unlike earlier prototypes, this vehicle represents the production version of Tesla’s purpose-built robotaxi. The Cybercab features no steering wheel or pedals, reflecting Tesla’s long-term vision of fully autonomous mobility. During the test, however, a safety supervisor occupied the passenger seat while the driver’s seat remained empty.

The milestone follows the beginning of Cybercab production at Gigafactory Texas earlier this year. Public-road validation allows engineers to verify vehicle systems, software integration, and overall reliability in real traffic conditions before any commercial deployment.

Despite the attention surrounding the Cybercab, Tesla’s active Robotaxi service still relies primarily on modified Model Y vehicles equipped with Full Self-Driving technology. Those vehicles continue accumulating operational experience while Tesla prepares its dedicated autonomous platform.

According to EPA data, the Cybercab weighs just over 3,100 pounds, uses a 48-kWh battery pack, and delivers industry-leading efficiency of approximately 165 Wh per mile. Elon Musk has repeatedly stated that Tesla intends to price the vehicle around $25,000, potentially making autonomous transportation significantly more affordable.

The beginning of public engineering validation is an important engineering achievement, although commercial driverless operation will require considerably more testing, regulatory approval, and software refinement.

Read more: https://electrek.co/2026/06/30/tesla-cybercab-engineering-tests-austin/