Tesla is conducting tests of its Cybercab vehicle in Chicago amid extremely cold weather. Temperatures have dropped to 8°F, feeling like -2°F with wind chill, making it colder than in Anchorage, Alaska. The Cybercab features B-pillar camera washers, unlike the new Model Y robotaxis in Austin.
On January 27, 2026, Tesla enthusiast Sawyer Merritt reported sightings of the Cybercab undergoing testing in Chicago. The weather conditions were harsh, with outdoor temperatures at 8°F and a wind chill making it feel like -2°F. This marked it colder than Anchorage, Alaska, where it was 18°F at the time.
The testing highlighted a key design difference for the Cybercab compared to other Tesla vehicles. While the new Model Y robotaxis in Austin lack this feature, the Cybercab includes B-pillar camera washers. These washers are likely intended to maintain clear visibility for the vehicle's autonomous systems in adverse conditions, such as the icy and snowy environment in Chicago.
Merritt's post, shared on X (formerly Twitter), provided a snapshot of Tesla's ongoing efforts to validate its autonomous vehicle technology in real-world extremes. No further details on the test duration or specific outcomes were mentioned, but the presence of the Cybercab in such low temperatures underscores the company's push toward robust performance across diverse climates.
