Tesla Secretly Developing Affordable Compact Self-Driving SUV

Tesla is planning an affordable compact electric SUV, code-named NV91, that is internally positioned to include a driverless option. The vehicle is seen as a bridge product ahead of large-scale Cybercab production, aimed at lowering the barrier to autonomous-driving technology and filling a gap in Tesla’s compact, low-cost EV lineup.

The latest reports say the NV91 will be about 4.28 meters long, with a target of cutting overall costs by roughly 20% from existing models. Its smaller body and lower price are intended to broaden its customer base. Tesla has not publicly confirmed the development plan, but sources said production could begin as early as mid-2026. The actual timetable will depend on research and development progress and production-line readiness.