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The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is examining the safety of robotaxis after several reports of autonomous vehicles interfering with emergency situations, potentially blocking first responders. The NHTSA has indicated that if an autonomous vehicle cannot interact safely with emergency teams, it poses a risk to public safety. This month, there will be discussions with robotaxi developers to find solutions.
Tesla’s Cybercab has started transporting passengers in Austin, Texas, and some unexpected details are coming to light. This futuristic two-seater lacks a steering wheel and pedals, relying instead on cameras and AI to manage the driving effectively. I mean, that’s pretty fascinating, right?
The launch on September 3 was quite understated for Tesla—lasting around 15 minutes without any words from Elon Musk, which is unusual. Shortly after, on September 4, federal safety regulators initiated an inquiry into how Tesla certified the Cybercab for use on U.S. roads.
This has been a long time coming for Tesla. As real customers begin to use the Cybercab, minor details suddenly become crucial—like knowing what to expect before hopping in.
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Tesla’s Cybercab is now hitting the streets of Austin as the company broadens its robotaxi initiatives, but it’s not without strict rules and safety controversies. If you’re planning a ride, the age rules are important. Tesla states that children under 13 aren’t permitted in the Cybercab at this time. However, teenagers aged 13 to 17 can ride, but they need to be accompanied by an adult.
Interestingly, Tesla has different age limits for its Model Y vehicles in the Robotaxi service, allowing children between 8 and 17 to ride when accompanied by an adult. So, it’s a little puzzling that an 11-year-old could hop in a Model Y but not a Cybercab. No clear reason has been given for this inconsistency.
Cybercab has no LATCH child-seat anchors
Another point of concern is that the Cybercab lacks a LATCH or ISOFIX system for child restraints. If a rider needs a booster seat, it has to be secured with a seatbelt instead. It’s a curious detail since they don’t allow children under 13, but it’s something older kids might still need based on their size and local laws.
What happens if a Cybercab crashes?
If a crash occurs, the Cybercab has contingency plans outlined in Tesla’s documentation. The airbags are supposed to deploy, the doors unlock, and hazard lights turn on. Interestingly, the vehicle can also disable its high-voltage battery and apply the brakes until it comes to a stop. Moreover, it has a system to connect with a support team, which plays a key role since passengers don’t have any physical controls.
There is an emergency Stop button
Once you step inside a Cybercab, look up for a dedicated Stop button nestled between the dome lights. Pushing it prompts an emergency pull-over request, ends the ride, and connects you to the Robotaxi Support team. You can also make a pull-over request through the touchscreen or via the app, though Tesla cautions that finding a safe stopping point may take time, especially on highways.
Tesla made the manual door release easier to find
The electronic door releases in Tesla vehicles have faced criticism for not having a mechanical backup when the power goes out. Cybercab still operates with electronically controlled doors but includes a mechanical release inside that passengers can use. It’s great that it’s accessible, but what if it damages components if not used correctly? It’s worth noting.
Cybercab uses electronic braking
An important distinction with the Cybercab is that it employs a brake-by-wire system instead of the traditional hydraulic brakes. Electronic actuators control the brake calipers, simplifying the vehicle’s design. Passengers don’t have any physical controls, which means the software and electronics hold even greater responsibility for safety.
Cybercab windows will not open all the way
Interestingly, passengers can lower the windows in a Cybercab, but not all the way down. The reason for this hasn’t been provided. Moreover, the window controls are located beneath the center touchscreen rather than on the doors, which might take some getting used to.
Cybercab packs USB-C charging
On the plus side, Cybercab offers USB-C charging ports for devices. Reports suggest these can provide up to 90 watts of power, potentially enough to charge laptops, though that specific wattage hasn’t been officially confirmed yet, so take that with a grain of caution.
Federal regulators are already looking at Cybercab
The NHTSA opened an Audit Query into Tesla’s certification of the Cybercab’s compliance with federal safety standards on September 3, following its deployment in Austin. This probe is noteworthy since Cybercab lacks traditional driving controls, which raises questions about compliance with vehicle regulations that were designed for human-operated cars.
What this means to you
If you’re one of the first to ride in a Cybercab, it’s wise to familiarize yourself with the space before moving. Locate the emergency Stop button, find the manual door release, and, importantly, keep your seatbelt fastened. Tesla enforces seatbelt use strictly—failure to comply could lead to a cancelled trip. Monitoring the age restrictions is also essential.
Let’s not forget this vehicle is still very new. As Tesla navigates integrating this type of car into everyday use, regulators are already raising important questions about its safety standards.
Kurt’s key takeaways
The Cybercab represents a significant leap from concept to reality, with interesting safety features worth noting. However, factors like the age restrictions, absence of LATCH anchors, and partially opening windows stand out. Combined with the federal investigation into its safety credentialing, Tesla clearly has substantial evidence to present. The real test will be establishing consistent trust from passengers day after day.
Would you feel comfortable stepping into a Cybercab without traditional driving controls, or would you prefer to wait for a bit more of a safety track record? Your insights are welcome.
