FYI: Tesla’s engineering vehicles equipped with unique camera systems are becoming more visible, just ahead of the October 10 unveiling event for Elon Musk’s eagerly anticipated Robotaxi.
Increasing Sightings of Tesla’s Robotaxi Training Vehicles
As October 10 approaches, sightings of Tesla’s engineering vehicles with distinctive camera setups have notably surged, sparking excitement and speculation within the automotive community. Often seen in the form of modified Model 3 sedans, these vehicles carry camera configurations that differ from those on the Model S3XY or Cybertruck.
Subreddit Enthusiasts Documenting Sightings
One avid observer, u/Shoddy_Expert8108 on the r/TeslaMotors subreddit, has noted a marked increase in these sightings. The subreddit user shared images of these test cars, highlighting those with sophisticated rigging on their roofs. Consistent with earlier sightings, the majority of these test vehicles are reengineered Model 3s specifically adapted for what appears to be Robotaxi training.
Historical Context of Robotaxi Test Vehicles
The buzz around Tesla’s Robotaxi began as early as mid-May, when the electric vehicle community spotted a reengineered Model 3 with an unconventional camera setup. Visual analysis of these vehicles suggested Tesla was preparing for a rollout of an as-yet-unreleased, smaller vehicle, leading to speculations about the Model 3 being used for Robotaxi trials.
Apparent Tesla Robotaxi training cars spotted on I405 near LAX (Credit: Teslarati)
What We Know About the Upcoming Robotaxi
Though specifics about Tesla’s Robotaxi remain under wraps, some intriguing details have emerged. The Robotaxi, set to be unveiled on October 10, 2024, will be produced using Tesla’s next-generation “Unboxed” manufacturing process. According to images revealed in Walter Isaacson’s biography of Elon Musk, the Robotaxi will likely be a compact two-seater, smaller than the Model 3. This aligns with the unique camera placements seen in the test vehicles.
Apparent Tesla Robotaxi training cars spotted on I405 near LAX (Credit: Teslarati)
Event Details and Future Prospects
Elon Musk had initially scheduled the Robotaxi unveiling for August 8, but later postponed it to October 10 to incorporate critical modifications. At this forthcoming event, Musk has teased that Tesla will also unveil “a couple of other things,” making the event all the more intriguing. Confirmations indicate that the Robotaxi will be manufactured at Giga Texas.
For more insights and updates, reach out to us at tips@automotive.fyi, or follow us on Twitter @automotivefyi.
William Kouch, Editor
Automotive.fyi
