Tesla Cybercab Production Gains Steam? Dozens of Castings Spotted at Giga Texas

Fresh evidence suggests Tesla is making tangible progress on its highly anticipated robotaxi, often referred to as the Cybercab. Drone pilot and Giga Texas observer Joe Tegtmeyer recently shared images showing a significant number of what appear to be Cybercab body castings staged at the Texas factory, estimating around 75 units (possibly more) are visible in racks, potentially awaiting production line testing. This sighting fuels speculation that Tesla is moving closer to pilot production or initial assembly stages for its dedicated autonomous vehicle.

Giga Texas Gears Up for Robotaxis

The appearance of these numerous castings at Giga Texas is a notable development. While Tesla has discussed its robotaxi ambitions for years, concrete signs of physical production have been scarce. Seeing dozens of these specialized components suggests that the necessary tooling and processes are being established or tested within the factory. Giga Texas, already a hub for Model Y and Cybertruck production, has long been earmarked as a key site for future Tesla models, including the robotaxi and the next-generation, lower-cost EV. This batch of castings provides a visual confirmation that groundwork for the Cybercab line is likely underway.

From Casting to Cab: The Road Ahead

These castings represent just one early step in the complex manufacturing process. They will need to proceed through body assembly, paint, and final assembly, incorporating motors, batteries, sensors, and the sophisticated hardware and software required for autonomous operation. The estimated number of 75 units, while significant as a visual indicator, is still small relative to mass production volumes. However, it could signify a pilot build phase, allowing Tesla to refine assembly processes, test components, and validate the vehicle’s design before committing to a larger ramp-up. The journey from these initial castings to a fleet of operational robotaxis remains substantial, involving not just manufacturing hurdles but also regulatory approvals and extensive real-world validation.

Implications for Tesla’s Autonomous Future

The Cybercab is central to Tesla’s long-term vision, promising a future of autonomous ride-hailing services that could revolutionize transportation and generate significant recurring revenue. Elon Musk has repeatedly emphasized the importance of autonomy, viewing it as a key driver of Tesla’s future valuation. Sightings like this, however preliminary, offer encouragement to investors and enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the realization of this vision. It suggests that despite challenges and shifting timelines, the dedicated robotaxi project is actively progressing behind the scenes at Giga Texas, moving from concept towards physical reality.

EVXL’s Take

Okay, let’s be real – seeing a bunch of metal frames isn’t the same as hailing a driverless ride. But for Tesla watchers, this glimpse of Cybercab castings at Giga Texas is like spotting the first robin of spring. It’s a tangible sign that the robotaxi, a vehicle often discussed more in tweets and earnings calls than seen in the metal, is actually taking shape. Joe Tegtmeyer’s drone shots give us a peek behind the curtain, showing that the factory floor is being prepped for this next chapter. While 75 units isn’t mass production, it’s a start. It tells us the engineers are likely working out the kinks, getting ready to build the machine they believe will change how we get around. The road to a fully autonomous taxi network is long and full of potholes (regulatory and technical), but seeing these castings lined up feels like Tesla is at least putting the key in the ignition.

Photos courtesy of Joe Tegtmeyer / Tesla