A steering-wheel-free car, now for individual buyers
Tesla has started offering its fully autonomous Cybercab to individual customers. Previously associated with robotaxi fleets, the vehicle is now being sold directly to end users.
Price and subscription model
The car is priced at $29,990. However, autonomous driving capability is not included in that price: Tesla requires a $299 monthly subscription for autonomous driving. In other words, the total cost of ownership adds a recurring monthly expense on top of the purchase price.
Why it matters
Selling a steering-wheel-free car to individual buyers is a notable step in the shift of autonomous driving from fleet trials to personal use. The subscription model also shows that autonomous driving software is being positioned as a separate revenue stream.
