Tesla Cybercab riders spot apparent virtual joystick controls in Austin
Videos appear to show controls for moving, stopping and opening Tesla’s steering-wheel-free Cybercab, though riders reportedly could not use them.
Several Tesla Cybercab riders in Austin reportedly saw an apparent virtual joystick and other manual-control options during customer rides shortly after the vehicle’s public launch.
The controls, shown in videos posted on X and reported by The Verge, appear to include options to move forwards or backwards, stop the vehicle, sound the horn and open its doors. The Cybercab is designed to operate autonomously and has no steering wheel or pedals.
The controls may be intended for Tesla employees or depot workers who need to move vehicles short distances in confined areas, such as a parking lot. Their purpose and functionality have not been confirmed by Tesla, and it is unclear why they appeared during customer rides.
Riders reportedly tried unsuccessfully to operate the controls. One video also appeared to show a frozen camera image from a previous Tesla Supercharger location, raising further questions about whether the display was visible because of a software issue.
The controls could theoretically help emergency responders or law enforcement move a Cybercab, although access arrangements and safeguards remain unclear. Tesla has briefed Austin’s police department on the Cybercab service, but it is not known whether the apparent controls were discussed.
