Cybercab: U.S. authorities quickly open investigation into Musk's new robotaxis

U.S. authorities have launched an immediate investigation into Elon Musk's new Cybercab robotaxis, whose lack of steering wheels and pedals currently requires special approval.

The vehicles began appearing on the streets of Austin, Texas, but the launch was notably restrained. When one of Musk's companies has something new to show, the event usually comes with considerable spectacle. This time, only a select group of Tesla influencers were invited on Thursday evening to witness the start of the robotaxis.

Musk himself was absent. The muted presentation surprised observers, particularly because he had promoted the robotaxis heavily a year earlier. Tesla investors also reacted with disappointment to the launch.