From a recent video, Tesla released a video featuring the firm’s facility in Fremont, CA, and this has caused excitement among automotive enthusiasts as well as industry analysts. One of many queries from the footage is that the vehicle is all covered, and nobody knows what is behind that cover. Considering the current performance and latest developments of Tesla, this hidden car could likely be the Cybercab—the fully autonomous Tesla robotaxi under development.
The Cybercab: Tesla’s Autonomous Future
First presented in October 2024, the Cybercab is an example of what Tesla envisions a car manufacturing industry without drivers could look like. Tesla envisions Cybercab to be a two-seater electric car with no concept of the steering wheel or floor pedals, as it will be designed to rely solely on Full Self-Driving (FSD) capability. Elon Musk has indicated that it will be produced before 2027 and be a key component of an autonomous ride-hailing network.
Tesla has already started the trial of a pretty much autonomous ride-hailing service through Model Y cars that are fitted with FSD tech in Austin, Texas, as well as in the San Francisco Bay Area. This pilot program uses an app and is a precursor to robotaxis that are expected to be launched in June in Austin.
Tesla has reportedly been discussing deploying robotaxis in the city with Austin city officials since May 2024. The company has been in touch with Austin’s autonomous vehicle task force, formed in 2023, to formulate a detailed safety roadmap for self-driving vehicles.
What’s under the wrap in Fremont?
credit:https://t.co/2P5WikyOY2@elonmusk @WholeMarsBlog @SawyerMerritt @R6Alex @TeslaBoomerMama @TSLAFanMtl @jasondebolt @DirtyTesLa @CPAinNYC @CernBasher @farzyness @HansCNelson @bradsferguson @MatchasmMatt @herbertong @Tesla @DriveTeslaca… pic.twitter.com/00V8fTEEGP— Tomer Hacohen (@TomerHacohen) April 26, 2025
Speculations and Industry Implications
Tesla recently tested a heavily disguised Model Y in China, and this has caused speculation and discussions among car enthusiasts and specialists. A sighting that occurred near the Gigafactory Shanghai indicates speculations of an upcoming revision of the electric SUV, or a completely different version of it, could be on the horizon. Meanwhile, the covered vehicle is located in Fremont today. It can be associated with several things:
- Cybercab Prototype: With such timing and given Tesla’s focus on full autonomy, it certainly appears that the vehicle is a Cybercab in some sort of testing/examination or is simply being fine-tuned for introduction.
- Long-range or performance Model Y: Tesla recently released the facelifted Model Y in China, with much improved performance; it will not be surprising if Tesla brings such an upgrade to other markets.
- New Model Variant: Tesla could be planning a new model that has some insights from the Cybertruck, which means the car could be designed to take people to and from personal ownership and can also share some content with the Model Y, which would be an electric car available for ride-hailing service.
The sighting shows Tesla’s never-ending invention spree and its drive to revolutionize mobility. Although Tesla has remained vocal and active in the production and development of electric and self-driving cars, there is always anticipation from the key players and consumers as they look forward to being advised on the next big thing in innovation from the firm.
