What happened
Tesla has launched the Cybercab, but federal investigators have already begun looking into the vehicle.
The focus of the scrutiny is the Cybercab's omission of a steering wheel, which is standard for conventional cars.
The investigation comes just hours after the official launch event for the Cybercab.
Why it matters
The immediate federal attention signals potential regulatory hurdles for Tesla's autonomous vehicle ambitions.
A production vehicle without a steering wheel could challenge existing safety standards, and how regulators respond may shape the future of self-driving car design.
This investigation could delay or alter the Cybercab's path to market, making it a key test case for robotaxi regulations.
Key facts
The Tesla Cybercab was officially launched recently.
The Cybercab does not have a steering wheel.
Federal authorities are already investigating the Cybercab.
The investigation began within hours of the vehicle's launch.
What to watch next
Whether the investigation leads to a formal recall request or a waiver process for the unconventional design.
How Tesla responds to the regulators' concerns and whether it will need to modify the Cybercab before production.
If other regulators worldwide follow the U.S. lead in examining steering-wheel-less vehicles.