Tesla's Cybercab robotaxi has begun carrying passengers in Austin, Texas, but the autonomous vehicle is already under scrutiny from federal regulators. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an investigation into how Tesla certified the Cybercab for U.S. roads, a move that comes as the company implements new passenger rules and navigates the complexities of a vehicle without traditional driving controls.
The NHTSA's action, announced Sept. 4, focuses on Tesla's self-certification of the Cybercab, which lacks a steering wheel, pedals, and mirrors. Automakers typically certify their vehicles meet federal safety standards, but NHTSA can audit these certifications. The agency is examining approximately 1,000 Cybercabs as it assesses how Tesla determined compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, many of which were written with human-driven vehicles in mind.
New Rider Rules and Safety Features
Beyond the federal review, Tesla's Cybercab introduces several notable details for passengers. The service prohibits children under 13 from riding without an accompanying adult, a stricter age limit than Tesla's Model Y robotaxi service, which allows children aged 8 to 17 with an adult. Additionally, the Cybercab lacks LATCH or ISOFIX child-restraint system anchors, requiring any necessary booster seats to be secured solely with a seat belt.
In the event of a collision, Tesla documentation indicates the Cybercab is designed to deploy airbags, unlock doors, activate hazard and interior lights, and apply brakes. The vehicle can also disable its high-voltage battery and establish a two-way connection with Robotaxi Support. Passengers have an emergency Stop button located above them, a pull-over option on the touchscreen, or can request a stop via the Robotaxi app. Tesla warns that an "immediate" pull-over may take time depending on the vehicle's speed and location.
Mechanical door releases are present, positioned as levers on the door panels. Tesla advises that using these releases could potentially damage the window or trim, and in cases of no power with a fully raised window, the glass could shatter. The vehicle also employs a brake-by-wire system, using electronic actuators instead of a traditional hydraulic setup.
Design Quirks and Ongoing Questions
Curiously, Cybercab windows can be lowered but not fully opened, a detail for which Tesla offers no explanation. Window controls are also situated below the center touchscreen. For passengers needing to charge devices, USB-C ports are available, with early reports suggesting up to 90 watts of power, though this wattage is not yet officially specified by Tesla in its public rider guide.
The NHTSA's scrutiny comes amid broader concerns about robotaxi safety. The agency has documented instances of autonomous vehicles interfering with emergency scenes and blocking first responders, deeming any vehicle unable to safely interact with emergency personnel a public danger. NHTSA plans to meet with robotaxi developers this month to discuss potential solutions.
If you plan to ride in a Cybercab, Tesla requires all passengers to wear seat belts for the duration of the trip, warning that the vehicle may pull over or cancel the ride if this rule is not followed. The company has also previously recalled robotaxis due to risks in construction zones, highlighting the challenges autonomous vehicles face in unpredictable environments.