Tesla Cybercab is now running in Austin: first responders may have to push it and turn the front wheels by hand

Tesla has started running its driverless Cybercab service in limited parts of Austin, Texas. That creates a new problem for first responders because the two-seat Cybercab has no steering wheel and no pedals.

In its first responder guide, Tesla tells crews to contact the company first so it can try to move the vehicle remotely. If the Cybercab is still operable, crews can also use the on-board controls.

Anyone who works in emergency response or around autonomous vehicles should keep an eye on this rollout.

Tesla says a disabled Cybercab should be pushed only in a narrow set of circumstances: minimal fire risk, minimal high-voltage risk, and low-voltage power still available. Even then, the goal is only to clear the road. If responders need to steer the Cybercab, they have to turn the front tires by hand.

The guide also warns that pushing the Cybercab when it isn’t in Neutral or Tow Mode can overheat the motor. Crash damage may also expose electrical parts, and wheel movement can generate electricity, which adds shock risk.

The launch is already drawing federal scrutiny. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, or NHTSA, is investigating whether the Cybercab meets safety standards because it lacks manual controls and because Tesla self-certified it. Earlier robotaxi incidents had already raised concerns about blocked traffic and interference with police and fire crews.

Tesla’s first responder guide is available now, while the Cybercab service remains limited to Austin.