Cover Image for Next Morning: This is Tesla's robotaxi, the Cybercab.
Fri Oct 11 2024

Next Morning: This is Tesla's robotaxi, the Cybercab.

The main news this morning includes Tesla's robotaxi, known as the Cybercab, as well as Intel's new 15th generation processors, which focus on energy efficiency and thermal management. Additionally, there are updates from Nintendo.

During Tesla's We, Robot event, held at the Warner Bros. Discovery studio in California, the company unveiled its highly anticipated robotaxi. It is expected that this vehicle will begin production before 2027, although Elon Musk expressed skepticism about the timelines, stating he feels "very optimistic about the timings."

The new Cybercab does not have a steering wheel and, according to Musk, could have low operating costs. He estimated the cost per mile would be 20 cents, and between 30 and 40 cents when adding taxes. Additionally, he confirmed that it will be possible to purchase one of these vehicles, with a selling price below $30,000. Musk also shared his vision of a future where individuals own multiple robotaxis and manage a fleet, which raised some doubts.

Regarding technology, Tesla has chosen a different approach from its competitors in the robotaxi space. Unlike others, such as Waymo, which rely heavily on radar and sensors, Tesla has decided to use cameras and object detection through artificial intelligence. Furthermore, the Cybercab does not have a conventional charging port; instead, it employs inductive charging, which requires a different infrastructure to keep these vehicles operational.

As part of the event, Musk also briefly introduced the Robovan, an autonomous van capable of carrying up to 20 people and transporting goods. Additionally, a line of Optimus robots was showcased, interacting with attendees by serving drinks.