Missoula Company Applies To Launch Autonomous Taxi Service

I'm still getting used to cars that shut themselves off at stoplights. Now we’re seeing reports of completely driverless cars roaming around Missoula.

A Missoula-based tech firm called CubCloud AI recently submitted an application to serve as Montana’s first fleet provider for Tesla Cybercabs. Should Tesla approve the application, the company intends to begin operating a service in Missoula using the name CubCab. And yes, I am referring to that unusual-looking gold Tesla model with no steering wheel or pedals.

Driverless Taxis May Arrive in Missoula

Cybercab is described by Tesla as a two-passenger vehicle that was created solely for use in fully autonomous driving environments. Cybercabs are already being used in limited areas through Tesla's Robotaxi service. Tesla is seeking interest from companies that want to purchase vehicles for use in their fleets.

In addition to launching in Missoula, where it currently maintains its headquarters, CubCloud has indicated that it may expand its services to other parts of Montana. Some of the places included in the company’s initial expansion include: Billings, Bozeman, and Butte. Eventually, they hope to offer their services to residents living in Great Falls, Kalispell, and possibly even rural areas across the State.

Can a Cyber Cab Operate in Montana?

I think that question came up quickly for me.

I have witnessed firsthand what the self-driving capabilities are for a Tesla in July. But I wonder if it can make a trip down Reserve Street during a February snowstorm when Reserve Street appears to be nothing but a parking lot due to road conditions, and everyone seems to have forgotten how to drive.

However, while there is no doubt that driving around Missoula during a snowstorm will pose a challenge for the Cybercab system, I believe there is great value in having a Montana-based company attempting to lead the way on this new technology. CubCloud is located in downtown Missoula and provides its own artificial intelligence network operations within the State of Montana.

CubCloud has indicated that it is seeking out partnerships throughout the State with organizations such as hospitals, airports, campuses, employers, cities, and tribal governments.

Not Tomorrow – But Someday...

Before you are able to hail a CubCab after a Griz game, there are a bunch of challenges that need to be overcome. First, CubCloud must receive approval from Tesla. Second, the project will likely need to obtain all required State and Federal approvals. So, at this point, this is a proposal and not a done deal.

If and when it does happen, we’ll likely be arguing with other drivers on Reserve Street. Soon we’ll probably be yelling at a car that doesn’t even have someone sitting in the driver's seat, flipping us off.