Summary
- Two-passenger Cybercab to be released in 2027 with wireless charging
- Cybercab cost expected to be below $30,000, no steering wheel or pedals
- Robovan introduced with seating for 20 and reduced operating costs
- Tesla CEO Elon Musk envisions autonomous vehicles as individualized mass transit
- Musk plans to start fully autonomous driving in 2025 with Model 3/Y, introduce Cybercab before 2027
Article
Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, introduced the two-passenger Cybercab, an autonomous electric vehicle due by 2027 that will not have a steering wheel or pedals. The Cybercab is part of Tesla’s full self-driving system and is expected to cost less than $30,000. The vehicle is designed for individualized mass transit and aims to reduce operating costs significantly compared to traditional buses. Tesla is targeting an operating cost of around 20 cents per mile and total cost including taxes and fees of 30-40 cents per mile for the Cybercab.
The Cybercab will use inductive wireless charging exclusively, a departure from Tesla’s past focus on Supercharger development. This technology will allow the vehicle to charge wirelessly, simplifying the charging process for owners. Musk also discussed a future model where individual owners manage autonomous fleets of vehicles, akin to shepherds tending to a flock. While details about the vehicle’s mechanics were not revealed, the focus was on the pragmatic benefits of autonomous transport and the potential impact on the public transit sector.
Musk presented the Cybercab as a key component in Tesla’s vision for the future of transportation, envisioning autonomous vehicles competing with traditional public transit systems. He highlighted the underutilization of personal vehicles and the potential for autonomous vehicles to increase their utility significantly. Musk emphasized the societal benefits of autonomous vehicles, including reduced need for parking lots and increased green space availability. Tesla aims to start fully autonomous driving in certain regions by 2025 and plans to have the Cybercab in high production volume before 2027.
In addition to the Cybercab, Tesla introduced the Robovan, an autonomous electric van that can transport cargo or up to 20 people. The design of the Robovan draws inspiration from dark, 1930s-1950s pulp sci-fi aesthetics and aims to reduce the cost per mile for passengers significantly. Musk emphasized the desire to transform the look of roads with vehicles like the Robovan and Cybercab, creating a more futuristic and exciting aesthetic. The introduction of these vehicles aligns with Tesla’s goal of reshaping transportation and improving efficiency and sustainability.
At the event, Tesla showcased 50 fully autonomous vehicles, including some Model Ys and Cybercabs, which were available for rides. Musk also introduced a new generation of the Optimus humanoid robot, touting its progress and potential for various tasks. The robot is envisioned as a personal assistant capable of teaching, babysitting, walking pets, doing household chores, and providing companionship. Musk highlighted the robot’s affordability compared to a car and its potential to enhance daily life for individuals. Tesla’s focus on autonomous vehicles and robots reflects the company’s commitment to innovation and redefining traditional modes of transportation and technology.
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