Tesla has launched its long‑anticipated Cyber Cab in a limited public rollout in Austin, Texas, marking a major step toward fully autonomous transportation.

The first units began operating in early September, serving designated zones in downtown Austin. Riders can request trips through Tesla’s Robotaxi app, with fares ranging from $5 to $11, depending on distance. The Cyber Cab is a compact, two‑seat vehicle with no steering wheel, built exclusively for autonomous ride‑hailing. Despite Tesla’s claims of full self‑driving capability, each ride is monitored by a remote command center that can intervene when necessary.

Regulators are paying close attention. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened an inquiry into Tesla’s certification process, raising concerns about safety standards and oversight as the fleet grows. For now, Austin is the only city offering Cyber Cab service. Tesla plans to expand to additional locations, though no timeline has been announced.

The launch represents a significant milestone in autonomous mobility and signals Tesla’s intention to accelerate deployment of driverless transportation solutions.