Tesla’s lead engineer for the Cybercab (AKA Tesla Robotaxi), Eric E., recently shared fascinating details about Tesla Roboraxi, offering insights into its design philosophy.
The two-seat robotaxi is designed with data-driven precision, optimizing performance while leaving larger group transportation to other Tesla models like the Model Y.
“One of the questions we get constantly with this product is why is it two seats? There’s a couple reasons why it’s two seats. One is 82% of miles driven today are with two or fewer passengers. This product is meant to be of extreme efficiency. We worked really hard to deliver that. And the efficiency isn’t just on an energy consumption base. It’s on the concept of cleaning, it’s also on the concept of reliability and service as well,”
Eric E. explained.
Some great info by Eric E:
Some great info by an engineer who is on the Robotaxi team! pic.twitter.com/dNxfmW8tJr
— TesAli (@alifarhat6_ali) December 5, 2024
Highlighting the Cybercab’s streamlined construction, the engineer shared another remarkable insight:
“Two seats unlocks a lot of opportunity aerodynamically. It also means we cut the part count of Cybercab down by a substantial margin. We’re gonna be delivering a car that has roughly half the parts of Model 3 today. It also means when you need to clean the car as a rideshare asset, you really don’t have to worry about navigating multiple doors, multiple seats. You really just have what looks like a bench seat, easy to clean automatically.”
Despite its compact size, the Cybercab doesn’t compromise on utility. Its trunk is reportedly spacious enough to accommodate multiple golf bags, two full-size carry-on and checked bags, and even some bicycles or a foldable wheelchair.
The design reflects a holistic approach to automotive innovation, focusing on efficiency, practicality, and user experience.