While Tesla's Cybercab has officially moved past production and into certification, newly released EPA documents reveal strong performance specs alongside a puzzling absence of full driverless capability approval.
- Cybercab weighs 3,113 lbs, lighter than many similar two-seaters
- Runs on a single 47.6-kWh battery pack with about 418 miles EPA range
- Front-wheel-drive motor rated at 219 hp, unlike typical Tesla models
What happened
Tesla’s Cybercab, which began production in February at their Texas Gigafactory, has recently had its specifications detailed through Environmental Protection Agency certification documents. These filings confirm the vehicle’s curb weight as 3,113 pounds and spotlight its efficient single 47.6-kWh lithium-ion battery pack capable of delivering an estimated EPA mixed range of 418 miles.
In a departure from other Tesla electric models, the Cybercab features a front-wheel-drive configuration powered by a 219-horsepower AC 3-phase permanent magnet motor. This design reduces weight and mechanical complexity by removing the need for a rear subframe and driveshaft. The vehicle also incorporates regenerative braking on the front wheels, underscoring Tesla’s focus on energy efficiency.
Why it feels good
The Cybercab’s lighter weight compared to other two-seater vehicles, combined with its large battery pack, indicates advancements in electric vehicle efficiency and urban mobility. The front-wheel-drive setup suggests a thoughtful engineering approach aimed at balancing performance with practical demands, especially for a vehicle intended for taxi-like use.
For EV enthusiasts and city commuters alike, the estimated highway range nearing 375 miles is promising, offering sufficient distance for extensive urban and suburban usage on a single charge. The simplicity of a single-speed automatic transmission and regenerative braking further improves driving smoothness and energy conservation.