Tesla has initiated small-scale deployment of its Cybercab robotaxi in Austin, Texas, as part of preparations for large-scale delivery. The company aims to deliver these vehicles to customers by the end of this year, according to Lars Moravy, Vice President of Vehicle Engineering at Tesla.
The vehicle design, which lacks a steering wheel and pedals, has drawn scrutiny from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The agency is currently reviewing how such a vehicle can receive certification, as Tesla has not yet fully resolved the associated legal challenges.
Elon Ashok, head of Tesla's AI division, stated that the company must overcome regulatory constraints but noted that expanding production capacity will not be an issue once legislative bodies approve the necessary arrangements.
The NHTSA has proposed amendments to existing regulations to accommodate fully autonomous vehicles without traditional controls. However, the legal status of the Cybercab remains unclear during this legislative transition period, with further updates expected around the October 30 deadline.
