Tesla Cybertruck: Latest Game-Changer?
In 2019, Tesla previewed its fifth model line, the Cybertruck, with claims of a sub-$40,000 starting MSRP, “bulletproof” glass, and outrageous performance specs and towing capacity. The launch press conference became famous for one of the side windows shattering when hit with a hammer – but even so, the Cybertruck’s angular, futuristic looks and stainless-steel skin meant it looked like nothing else. Now, four long years later, Tesla has started to deliver the first Cybertrucks in very small quantities – and while it doesn’t quite live up to the initial promises made, it’s still an impressive package. Let’s take a closer look.
Tesla Cybertruck: Price, Range and Performance
We now know that the Cybertruck will be available in three versions, and they will be much more expensive than originally promised.
The lineup starts with a rear-wheel drive model, which uses a single motor. Available only in 2025 – that’s still about two years away – the rear-wheel drive Cybertruck will have an EPA-estimated range of just 250 miles, about half the 500-mile range originally promised by Tesla. No actual power output or battery capacity has been provided yet, but Tesla says that it will reach 60 mph in 6.5 seconds. The starting MSRP of the base Cybertruck will be $60,990.
One step up is the 600-hp Cybertruck all-wheel drive, with a starting MSRP of $79,990. With two motors and a larger battery, Tesla claims an EPA-estimated range of 320 miles, a 0-60 time of 3.9 seconds, as well as a top speed of 130 mph, a step up from the 112 mph top speed of the rear-wheel drive model. There will also be the option of a supplementary battery pack that fits in the pickup bed to extend range to an EPA-estimated 470 miles.
At the top of the range, with a starting MSRP of $99,990 is the 845-hp Cybertruck Cyberbeast. EPA-estimated range drops to 320 miles (or 440 with the supplementary battery pack) but its performance is incredible, with the ability to reach 60 mph in just 2.6 seconds – that’s faster than most high performance sports cars.
Cybertruck Towing, Payload, and Versatility
All three Tesla Cybertruck models have impressive towing capability. While they won’t tow 14,000 pounds like originally claimed, the all-wheel drive models’ 11,000-pound towing capacity is still impressive, and thanks to standard self-leveling four-corner air suspension, it should be able to drive easily and comfortably even with a heavy trailer attached. (Rear-wheel drive models can tow up to 7,500 pounds.)
The Cybertruck’s air suspension also allows the driver to vary the ride height, raising the vehicle for more ground clearance off-road, while lowering it for more efficient highway cruising and easier entry and exit. Four-wheel steering gives it a very tight turning circle.
Payload for all Cybertruck models is an impressive 2,500 pounds – less than the 3,500 originally claimed, but on par with or better than the Ford F-150 Lightning and Chevrolet Silverado EV. The covered pickup bed is four feet wide and six feet long, but can accommodate a four-by-eight sheet of plywood when the tailgate is down. Tesla claims 67 cubic feet of lockable storage, and there are also power plugs in the bed and front trunk that can power your tools or other gear.
Inside, the Cybertruck is spacious and minimalist like other Tesla models, though the overall design feel is in line with the angular exterior styling. Thankfully, there is a real steering wheel instead of a yoke. Most controls are operated through a 18.5-inch touchscreen, and there's also a smaller touchscreen for rear passengers. An awesome audio system makes the most of this electric truck’s silent running.
Tesla Cybertruck Versus Competitors
The electric pickup field is quickly crowding with attractive entries. While it is not as affordable as originally promised, neither are its competitors, and the Tesla Cybertruck actually is competitive with its major rivals.
- The Ford F-150 Lightning was one of the first entries, and has a starting MSRP of $49,995, but with a long-range battery pack and higher trim levels, can reach $91,995.
- Startup Rivian offers various options for its very cool and versatile R1T model, priced with starting MSRPs between $79,000 and $87,000.
- The Chevrolet Silverado EV, which has very limited availability, spans a rough range between $50,000 and $100,000. The related GMC Sierra EV’s top model has a starting MSRP of $107,000.
- The ultra-fast, ultra-big GMC Hummer EV starts with an MSRP of $98,845, rising to $106,945 for the top version.
In terms of size, the Cybertruck is actually about half a foot shorter than the F-150 Lightning, and quite a bit lower. So while it’s a big truck, it’s still smaller than a mainstream pickup truck, demonstrating the advantages of a dedicated, ground-up EV platform.
When Will the Cybertruck Be Available?
While Tesla has “delivered” the first Cybertruck models, the first 10 vehicles delivered were actually to employees and company partners, and there is no real indication on when the first of a million-plus public deposit holders will receive their vehicles.
Company CEO Elon Musk has indicated that the ramp-up of production will be slow and challenging due to the Cybertrucks unique construction and materials, and that eventually 250,000 Cybertrucks a year can be produced. That means some customers may be in for a long wait.
