After a long time, the much-anticipated Cybercab by Tesla has been seen at Giga Texas, in what seems to be its most refined and finished shape so far. The most recent one was taken and posted online by Tesla-observing fan Joe Tegtmeyer, showing the futuristic electric vehicle being driven around the factory premises, with a steering wheel and side mirrors.
The presence of these features is a strong indication that the Cybercab is still in the midst of real-world testing, which is one step closer to its official launch.
The car, which had a black-coloured wheel and matte gold coating, was videotaped going through testing tracks, in and out of the lanes, and at low-speed turns. As opposed to the early leaks that showed a minimalist and futuristic-looking cabin with no manual controls, this prototype obviously has the standard driving hardware, and this is a sign that Tesla is moving towards realistic on-road testing.
Not the First Steering Wheel Cybercab at Giga Texas
It is not the first time that a prototype of a Cybercab that has a steering wheel has been spotted at the Austin Gigafactory. Previously sighted versions were also seen with manual controls, implying that Tesla has always been testing it with manual controls. Such recurring appearances testify to the fact that Tesla has been perfecting the vehicle over time, moving away from his initial mule-like trials to more finished objects.
Cybercabs at Giga Texas today & a Happy Thanksgiving from my Sister Sue, her husband Ed, their dog Kiki and me!
Also featuring a @teslaownersSV @SjvTesla @theXtakeover jackets! pic.twitter.com/C2Tow8P00j
— Joe Tegtmeyer 🚀 🤠🛸😎 (@JoeTegtmeyer) November 25, 2025
The interference of the steering wheel does not negate the long-term vision of Tesla of a fully autonomous robotaxi. Rather, it puts the emphasis on the existing priority of the company, which is assessing the Cybercab on the public and semi-public roads, but keeping in mind the regulations that imply the use of human-operable controls during the testing procedures.
The prototypes that have been seen up to this point have been more and more complete, suggesting that it is moving forward at a very fast pace.
A More Sophisticated and Pro Polish Design
The most recent Cybercab appears significantly more refined than earlier sightings were. Key details include:
- Near-production-like body panels that are smooth and clean.
- An aerodynamic footprint is provided by the next-generation platform of Tesla.
- Fewer visible prototype indicators, which implies Tesla is now in the process of finalizing the exterior.
The design, which is sleek, symmetrical, and purpose-built, complements the intention of the company to have a highly efficient vehicle to be used in the fleet in the future, as part of the autonomous ride-hailing service offered by Tesla.
The Giga Texas Testing Intensifies
Giga Texas has been the major hub of building Cybercabs, and the latest recording indicates that the battery testing is going on in the parking lots and drive loops in the facility. Tesla engineers and employees are seen to be monitoring the vehicle. The rate of testing, as well as the mature look of the prototype, indicate that Tesla is accelerating the process of validating the prototype before a larger disclosure.
The Cybercab has been a staple of next-generation strategy of Tesla. As the company is about to increase its manufacturing presence and create new production lines in Giga Texas, it is understandable that intensive vehicle testing is underway on the premises. The increasing number of sightings is indicative of the fact that Tesla is about to reach a significant milestone- perhaps a public unveiling or pre-production stage.
