Tesla Cybercab doesn’t have any manual controls — but it does have a virtual joystick
News Source
•2026-09-08T12:06:56-04:00
📰 What Happened
Tesla's Cybercab robotaxi has no steering wheel or pedals. But some riders have found a virtual joystick on the screen inside. The controls seemed to appear by accident during the first weeks of the public launch. Riders can use them to guide the car by hand.
The joystick is a surprising feature for a car designed to drive itself. It suggests riders can still take some control when needed. Tesla has not said exactly why the virtual controls exist.
🔍 The Backstory
The Cybercab is Tesla's big bet on robotaxis without human drivers. The company removed manual controls to show full faith in its self-driving software. Regulators and safety experts have questioned what riders can do if the car fails.
Tesla's approach to autonomy relies on cameras and AI, without the extra sensors rivals use. The company has been rolling the Cybercab out to the public in recent weeks. Finding a hidden joystick raises new questions about who is really in charge.
🎯 Why It Matters
Robotaxis are heading to more cities, and this shows how they really work. Knowing you can grab control matters for safety and trust. It also hints at what future car rides will feel like.
Tesla's Cybercab robotaxi has no steering wheel or pedals. But some riders have found a virtual joystick on the screen inside. The controls seemed to appear by accident during the first weeks of the public launch. Riders can use them to guide the car by hand.
The joystick is a surprising feature for a car designed to drive itself. It suggests riders can still take some control when needed. Tesla has not said exactly why the virtual controls exist.
The Cybercab is Tesla's big bet on robotaxis without human drivers. The company removed manual controls to show full faith in its self-driving software. Regulators and safety experts have questioned what riders can do if the car fails.
Tesla's approach to autonomy relies on cameras and AI, without the extra sensors rivals use. The company has been rolling the Cybercab out to the public in recent weeks. Finding a hidden joystick raises new questions about who is really in charge.
Robotaxis are heading to more cities, and this shows how they really work. Knowing you can grab control matters for safety and trust. It also hints at what future car rides will feel like.