No little kids allowed, and other new info about Tesla’s Cybercab

Summarized from techcrunch.com


Tesla’s recent private Cybercab event diverged from the company’s typical large-scale, live-streamed product launches, notably lacking a keynote address from CEO Elon Musk, which reportedly lasted only around 15 minutes. The event’s unconventional format contrasts with Musk’s long-standing vision for the Cybercab, a fully autonomous vehicle relying solely on cameras and AI, positioned as a cost-effective alternative to competitors like Waymo. Tesla disseminated key details through PDFs and updates to its “Robotaxi” app, leaving some information to be shared by dedicated fans online.

Among the new details revealed, Tesla has imposed age restrictions on Cybercab passengers, prohibiting minors under 13 from riding “at this time,” while allowing those aged 8 to 17 in the Robotaxi Model Y SUVs. The Cybercab lacks standard LATCH anchors for child seats, requiring child seats to be secured using seat belts instead. In the event of a crash, the Cybercab’s safety protocol includes inflating airbags, unlocking doors, activating hazard lights, disabling the high-voltage battery, and establishing a two-way connection with Tesla’s rider support team. The vehicle employs electronic door latches with an exterior button for manual door opening and a prominently placed interior manual release. Additionally, Tesla utilizes a brake-by-wire system to reduce complexity and cost, continuing its trend of innovative, cost-cutting engineering solutions seen in the Cybertruck’s steer-by-wire technology. Source