Will the Tesla Cybercab Really Have a Steering Wheel?

Tesla’s long-awaited Cybercab was meant to redefine transportation with full self-driving tech and no steering wheel in sight. However, new reports suggest Tesla’s Cybercab may have a steering wheel after all. According to Tesla board chair Robyn Denholm, regulatory requirements might force the automaker to include traditional controls when production begins in 2026.

While the original Cybercab design aimed for complete autonomy, U.S. safety regulators still require steering wheels and pedals unless a manufacturer secures special exemptions—a process that’s notoriously complex and time-consuming.

Why Would Tesla Add a Steering Wheel to the Cybercab?

Tesla’s inclusion of a steering wheel isn’t a design setback—it’s a regulatory necessity. Federal safety rules are built around human-operated vehicles, and removing manual controls means Tesla must prove its autonomous systems meet or exceed human safety standards.

Denholm told Bloomberg, “If we have to have a steering wheel, it can have a steering wheel and pedals.” This statement suggests Tesla is prioritizing compliance and a faster production timeline over design purity.

What Does This Mean for Tesla’s Autonomous Future?

If Tesla’s Cybercab has a steering wheel, it signals a cautious step toward autonomy rather than a leap. The company still plans to position it as a purpose-built robotaxi, but the temporary inclusion of manual controls could help Tesla roll out the vehicle sooner while continuing to refine its Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology.

This approach also helps Tesla avoid the long delays faced by companies seeking exemptions for driverless vehicles, such as Cruise and Waymo.