Tesla’s autonomous vehicle testing seems to be expanding, as the first Cybertruck outfitted as a Robotaxi validation vehicle was recently spotted charging in California. Shared by @TailosiveEV on X, close-up images of the modified Cybertruck show a roof-mounted LiDAR unit for high-precision 3D mapping, along with additional cameras on the front bumper. This hardware is ideal for collecting accurate data during complex maneuvers like parking and low-speed navigation. While Elon Musk has previously dismissed LiDAR for Tesla’s consumer vehicles, extra sensors on internal validation vehicles are used to establish “ground truth” data for training and verifying Full Self-Driving software.
The sighting is significant because Tesla’s Robotaxi fleet has primarily consisted of Model Y vehicles. Currently, Robotaxis operate as a driverless pilot program in Austin with safety monitors in the passenger seat, while similar ride-hailing tests with safety drivers are ongoing in the Bay Area. Recently, some vehicles have been spotted testing “unsupervised” Full Self-Driving in Austin, without drivers or safety monitors. The appearance of a Cybertruck-based validation vehicle is a first, as all previously known validation rigs were Model Ys.
The timing of this development is also noteworthy. The Cybertruck recently gained access to the full suite of Full Self-Driving features with the rollout of FSD 14, indicating Tesla’s confidence in the platform for advanced testing scenarios. Fans have observed that the placement of the cameras aligns with speculation on how Tesla might enhance its sensor suite without altering its production philosophy.
This news comes as Tesla prepares to significantly scale its Robotaxi network. The company has hinted at major expansion plans ahead of the launch of Cybercab, an autonomous ride-hailing vehicle set to enter mass production in April. While Cybercab is expected to be the backbone of Tesla’s future Robotaxi fleet, the presence of a Cybertruck validation vehicle suggests ongoing testing and refinement of autonomy across Tesla’s lineup.