Tesla Cybercab's Backup Steering Wheel Is a Giant On-Screen Joystick
The vehicle's primary interface for manual control relies entirely on the central touchscreen, replacing traditional physical steering hardware.
Tesla's upcoming Cybercab robotaxi will reportedly forgo a traditional physical steering wheel in favor of a large, on-screen joystick interface for manual control.
What Happened
According to reports from InsideEVs, the Cybercab's design centers around a singular touchscreen display that serves as the primary interface for the vehicle. In scenarios where manual intervention is required, passengers or operators would use a giant on-screen joystick displayed on this central screen to steer the car. This approach eliminates conventional mechanical steering columns and buttons, relying instead on software-defined controls integrated directly into the user interface.
Why It Matters
This design choice underscores Tesla's aggressive commitment to a fully autonomous future, where physical controls are viewed as redundant except for specific edge cases or regulatory requirements. By removing the physical steering wheel, Tesla aims to lower manufacturing costs and simplify the interior layout, maximizing space for passengers. However, it also raises questions about the user experience for manual overrides and the reliability of touch-based controls in critical driving situations, potentially setting a new standard for how human drivers interact with autonomous vehicles.
The Bottom Line
Tesla's Cybercab is expected to feature a minimalist interior with a large touchscreen that doubles as the manual steering mechanism via an on-screen joystick, signaling a definitive move away from traditional automotive controls.
