Tesla’s highly anticipated Cybercab is making waves in the autonomous vehicle industry, and a recent sighting in Chicago has revealed a new feature that could address a common complaint among Tesla owners. The validation unit spotted on public roads in the Windy City was equipped with a rear camera washer, a feature that has been long overdue for many drivers, especially those in colder climates.
The rear camera visibility has been a persistent issue for Tesla owners, particularly in snowy or slushy conditions where road grime can quickly obscure the camera. With Tesla vehicles relying heavily on cameras for driver assistance and Full Self-Driving capabilities, a blocked rear camera can significantly impact system performance. The addition of a dedicated washer for the rear camera on the Cybercab suggests that Tesla is finally addressing this issue on its next-generation autonomous platform.
The Cybercab is Tesla’s upcoming two-seat, all-electric vehicle designed specifically for the company’s Robotaxi network. Real-world testing has been ramping up, with sightings in California, Austin, and now in multiple states including Illinois, New York, and Massachusetts. With eleven Cybercab units now operating on public roads, Tesla is nearing the final stages of validation ahead of expected volume production in April.
When production begins, the Cybercab is expected to ship without a steering wheel, pedals, or side mirrors, relying entirely on Tesla’s Full Self-Driving system. While current test vehicles still have traditional controls, Tesla has been seen removing side mirrors from validation units, indicating that the final design is close to completion.
As for the rear camera washer, it is currently exclusive to the Cybercab model, with no word on whether it will be available on other Tesla vehicles in the future. However, given the high demand for this feature, especially in winter-heavy regions, there is hope that Tesla will eventually introduce it to more models.
Overall, the Cybercab continues to push boundaries in the autonomous vehicle industry, with innovative features and cutting-edge technology that are sure to revolutionize transportation as we know it. Stay tuned for more updates on Tesla’s exciting developments in the world of self-driving vehicles.