Tesla’s highly anticipated robotaxi event, named “We, Robot,” is taking place later tonight at the Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, California. Here’s everything you need to know about how to tune in, what surprises could be in store, and why this event might be one for the history books.
How to Watch
The event is scheduled to kick off at 10:00pm ET (7:00pm PT) and as with other recent Tesla events, will be live-streamed on X (formerly Twitter), which you can watch at the link below.
The future will be streamed live
— Tesla (@Tesla) October 9, 2024
10/10, 7pm PT https://t.co/YJEjZIYoTA
If you weren’t lucky enough to get one of the invitations to the live events, Tesla will also be holding watch parties at Service Centers across Canada and the US, however most, if not all of these, are now sold out.
What to Expect
Tesla has been able to keep their robotaxi design under wraps, and there have been no leaks. While details are still scarce, here are the most likely announcements Tesla fans can expect.
Cybercab Unveiling
Front and center will be the unveiling of Tesla’s robotaxi, informally called the Cybercab. This vehicle is expected to be fully autonomous and could even come without a steering wheel and pedals. Based on a sighting of a heavily camouflaged prototype, the Tesla robotaxi will have a sleek design with only two front seats, and if recent rumours are true, upward-opening butterfly doors.
Other rumours suggest this could be the most affordable Tesla yet, potentially priced lower than traditional ridesharing options, making it accessible for both personal and commercial use. In fact, Elon Musk has hinted that Cybercab fares could be cheaper than a subsidized bus ticket.
Tesla’s Autonomous Ridesharing Network
Along with a robotaxi, there must be a way to monetize it, so Tesla is likely to also unveil their autonomous ridesharing network, where owners can rent out their cars as robotaxis when not in use. Expect updates on how the Tesla app will enable owners to deploy their cars as part of this network and how it might function in practice.
A Look at the Future of Charging
To support a fleet of autonomous vehicles, Tesla may also show off their wireless charging technology. We have already seen images and a patent for the wireless charging mat and Wall Connector, and this event could be the perfect opportunity to show it off.
Possible New Models
Some analysts believe we may see not only the robotaxi, but also two other new vehicles announced during the event. These could be a Tesla electric van and a US$25,000 entry-level EV.
Surprise Appearances
Elon Musk is known for adding surprises to these events, and this one might include showcasing an updated version of Tesla’s Optimus robot. After all, the event’s name, “We, Robot,” hints that there could be more than just the Cybercab on display.
Although we will be seeing Tesla’s robotaxi for the first time later tonight, that doesn’t mean they will be on the roads in the next few months. There are significant regulatory hurdles ahead, as Tesla has not yet secured permits to operate robotaxis in key markets like California or Arizona, where Waymo currently operates. Expect Musk to lay out Tesla’s plan to getting the robotaxi officially approved for use, although any large-scale deployment is likely years away.
What are you expecting to see at the robotaxi event? Let us know in the comments below.
