Tesla VP Talks About How Lasers May Make Their Way to the Cybercab

Tesla’s laser windshield-cleaning idea could still reach a production vehicle, with Tesla’s Cybercab being a possible application. In a new Jay Leno’s Garage clip, Tesla VP of Vehicle Engineering Lars Moravy discussed using focused lasers to clear the windshield directly in front of the camera.

Using Lasers to Clean the Windshield

During the interview, Moravy talked about Tesla existing patent for using lasers to clean the windshield. However, he addressed the issue that it didn’t make a ton of sense to use lasers to clean the entire windshield because you’d need so many of them.

However, he said that if you instead focused the lasers on just the area in front of the camera, then it could make sense for autonomous driving.

From Cybertruck to a New Patent Grant

Elon Musk joked about laser wipers back in 2021 when Tesla was developing the Cybertruck. Tesla ultimately chose the massive 48-inch giga wiper. Our 2025 wiper replacement guide listed Tesla as the only supplier of its model-specific blade, which is sold through the Tesla Shop.

Tesla updated its laser-cleaning patent, so it sounds like they’re still interested in exploring this technology. The updated patent was granted on March 31st of this year.

The patent itself describes detecting debris, identifying its type and adjusting laser pulses accordingly. To keep things safe, the system limits beam penetration to less than the glass thickness.

Could It Help Tesla’s Auto Wipers?

Tesla owners have reported automatic wipers running on dry glass or failing to respond adequately to light rain. Those complaints involve deciding when and how quickly to wipe, but unfortunately, this solution isn’t aimed at consumer vehicles. Robotaxis on the other hand don’t need a perfectly clear windshield, except for the camera area, and having an automated solution there makes a lot more sense than in a vehicle where there’s someone driving or supervising FSD.

Why Robotaxis Could Benefit

A contactless system to remove water from the windshield could fit Tesla mantra of “the best part is no part.” A laser system would likely have a lot fewer parts and no moving pieces, which could reduce maintenance on robotaxis.

Tesla recommends replacing windshield wiper blades annually, so an automated, contactless system would likely reduce maintenance.

This could make a huge difference for the Cybercab where there could be no one available to clear the windshield or fix wiper-related issues when the Cybercab is driving to its next ride-hailer.