Image: Tesla
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has officially granted Tesla a critical waiver to deploy its new wireless charging technology. The order, released Thursday, allows the company to move forward with the high-tech sensors that will likely power the autonomous charging vision for the upcoming Cybercab.
Wireless Charging Technology Cleared for Deployment
The decision allows Tesla to use Ultra-Wideband (UWB) sensors on ground-based pads and within vehicles. Under previous rules, these sensors were restricted to handheld devices to prevent interference with satellite and military communications. However, Tesla successfully argued that its system is so precise and low-power that it poses no risk to other radio services.
Powering the Autonomous Future of the Cybercab
This regulatory win is especially significant for the Cybercab, which Tesla has confirmed will not feature a traditional charging port. Because the robotaxi is designed to operate without a human driver, it requires a “hands-free” way to refuel. These UWB sensors act as the vehicle’s eyes, allowing it to navigate over a charging pad with centimetre-level accuracy to ensure maximum power efficiency. The future is coming, folks.
The FCC noted that the signal from these sensors is extremely brief, lasting less than a fraction of a second, and is effectively shielded by the car’s metal frame once it is parked. This provides a clear legal path for Tesla to build out automated charging infrastructure in parking lots and driveways across North America.
Strict Operational Requirements for Tesla
While the waiver is a green light for production, the FCC did include specific conditions. Tesla must ensure the sensors only activate during a parking event and shut down immediately once the car is stationary. Additionally, the company must notify organizations like NASA if it plans to install commercial charging hubs near sensitive satellite stations or radio astronomy sites.
This move effectively removes one of the biggest legal obstacles to Tesla’s vision of a fully autonomous, self-charging fleet. By automating the physical link to the power grid, Tesla is positioning itself to run robotaxi operations with significantly lower costs than competitors who still rely on manual labour to plug in vehicles.
