My thoughts on the Tesla Cybertruck

By now, you've probably seen more Cybertruck videos than cat memes, but fear not – this review is about to serve up the unadulterated truth about Tesla's electrifying anomaly.

So, what's the Cybertruck, really? It's not just an outlier; it's a maverick in the world of 4x4s and SUVs, thumbing its stainless steel nose at the likes of Ford and Jeep. It's disruptive, in-your-face, and impossible to ignore – the rebel yell in a sea of automotive conformity. With a raw charm fueled by modernity and a hefty dose of electricity, this truck isn't just turning heads; it's rewriting the rules of the pickup game.

Deliveries kicked off in November 2023, offering choices like the 845bhp 'Cyberbeast' tri-motor version or the $79,990 AWD dual motor variant. Want more options? In 2025, there's a RWD-only single motor on the horizon. Oh, and color choices? Forget about it. It's stainless steel or bust. The entry price? A cool $60,990 for the single motor truck – a small price to pay for entry into the Cybertruck club.

Under the hood, the tri-motor version boasts two induction motors on the rear axle and a permanent magnet motor on the front. It's a power-packed beast, hitting 0-60 mph in 2.6 seconds, towing like a champ, and flaunting Tesla's most substantial battery yet. Worried about range? Fear not – there's an optional plug-and-play 50kWh battery extender that can turn your Cybertruck into an electric camel, extending the range to a jaw-dropping 440 miles.

But why does it look like it just crash-landed from the future? According to design boss Franz von Holzhausen, they unpacked existing trucks, drew inspiration from submarines, fighter jets, and threw in a sprinkle of Lotus Esprit for good measure. The result? A head-turning exoskeleton design that's as confusing as it is captivating. It's not just a pickup; it's a visual mic drop that's leaving the automotive world in awe.

Constructed like a stainless steel fortress, the Cybertruck's panels are bolted onto a steel monocoque, creating a literal bullet-proof exoskeleton. Elon and Franz's vision wasn't a walk in the park – bending stainless steel is like trying to teach a cat quantum physics. Enter Airbending, a process where they float the tool on a high-pressure air hockey table, bending steel without breaking a sweat.

Off-road capabilities? The Cybertruck's got it in spades. With air suspension, all-terrain tires, and a 'Baja' setting for when you want to channel your inner off-road racer, this electric beast is more than just a city slicker. It can tow up to five tonnes, although be warned, that might slash your range in half. The extra battery pack? A must-have for those who want to explore the open road without worrying about charging stations.

In the grand scheme of things, the Cybertruck is not just a vehicle; it's a statement. If you put down that $100 deposit way back when, Tesla has delivered on its promise. The Cybertruck is a sci-fi fantasy brought to life, a rebellious streak in the world of pickups, and a showstopper in every sense. So, whether you're in denial or in awe, one thing's for sure – the Cybertruck isn't just turning heads; it's rewriting the playbook for pickup trucks. Strap in, because the future is stainless steel, and it looks undeniably badass.

Towing and Payload Capability

When it comes to towing and payload prowess, the dual- and tri-motor variants of the Cybertruck flex their muscles with a whopping maximum towing capacity of 11,000 pounds. Meanwhile, the eagerly awaited single-motor model takes a slightly lighter stance with a capped towing capacity of 7,500 pounds. But don't underestimate the Cybertruck's cargo-carrying skills – each model can confidently haul 2,500 pounds in its spacious six-foot-by-four-foot composite cargo bed.

Range, Charging, and Battery Performance

Unveiling the specifics of the Cybertruck's battery sizes may still be shrouded in mystery, but fear not – a bit of detective work with data from the EPA has led to an estimated 122.4-kWh. Charging up at a Supercharger station, the AWD model boasts an impressive 136-mile gain in just 15 minutes, while its more beastly counterpart, the Cyberbeast, adds 128 miles within the same timeframe.

As for the truck's electric stamina, the driving range varies depending on the motor configuration. Tesla's estimate for AWD versions stands strong at 340 miles per charge, while the Cyberbeast gracefully cruises for 320 miles on a single charge. Hold on to your charging cables, because with an optional range extender battery pack snugly fitting into the cargo bed, those numbers soar to over 440 and 470 miles, respectively.

Looking ahead to the RWD Cybertruck, it aims to hit the road with an estimated 250 miles of range, proving that even with a single motor, the Cybertruck is ready to roll and redefine the electric vehicle game.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo Space

If you found the Tesla Model 3's interior to be the epitome of minimalism, brace yourself – the Cybertruck takes that spartan vibe to a whole new level. While the full extent of standard features and optional extras remains a bit of a mystery, the initial glimpses showcase a dashboard that's more slab than console, dominated by an expansive touchscreen.

Seating up to six passengers, the Cybertruck doesn't just stop at its unconventional interior; it boasts a cargo bed with a voluminous 121 cubic feet of space. But here's where it gets interesting – the Cybertruck throws in a dash of innovation with a slide-out tailgate that moonlights as a convenient ramp. Need to load up your four-wheelers or motorcycles? Consider it handled with a touch of Cybertruck finesse.

Infotainment and Connectivity

In the realm of infotainment, each Cybertruck proudly sports a substantial 18.5-inch touchscreen boldly positioned in the center of the dashboard, offering an expansive and immersive experience. Adding a touch of convenience for the rear-seat passengers, there's an additional 9.4-inch touchscreen mounted on the back of the center console. While the specific details of the infotainment and connectivity features remain a well-guarded secret, it's a safe wager that they'll likely mirror the tech-savvy offerings found in Tesla's other remarkable models.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

It's anticipated that every Cybertruck model will offer access to Tesla's debatable hands-free Autopilot driving feature. Additionally, we foresee the inclusion of other advanced driver-assistance technologies. To delve deeper into the Cybertruck's crash-test performance, refer to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

While Tesla extends a comprehensive warranty to its current lineup, regrettably, complimentary maintenance is not part of the package.

• Limited warranty spans four years or 50,000 miles

• Powertrain warranty provides coverage for eight years or 150,000 miles

• Battery components enjoy protection for eight years or 150,000 miles

• Alas, there's no complimentary scheduled maintenance included

Strap in, because the Tesla Cybertruck is not just a truck; it's a game-changer, a lightning bolt in the world of pickups. From its jaw-dropping design that looks like it's straight out of a sci-fi epic to its raw power that can tow and haul with the best of them, the Cybertruck is a rebellious statement that refuses to play by the rules.

Sure, the interior might give minimalism a whole new meaning, but who needs frills when you have an 18.5-inch touchscreen that commands attention? And with that extra 9.4-inch touchscreen for the backseat crew, Tesla is ensuring everyone gets a piece of the futuristic action.

The range and charging capabilities are nothing short of impressive, making those road trips and off-road adventures a breeze. Whether you opt for the dual-motor, tri-motor, or patiently await the single-motor edition, the Cybertruck promises a driving experience that's as electrifying as its design.

Safety? Check. With Autopilot and a suite of driver-assistance features, the Cybertruck not only looks out for itself but also for its passengers. And while some may debate the controversial Autopilot, there's no denying that Tesla is pushing the boundaries of what's possible.

Sure, there might be quirks – from the stainless steel exterior that attracts fingerprints like a magnet to the absence of complimentary maintenance. But in the grand scheme of things, the Cybertruck is not for the faint of heart or those who seek conformity. It's for the bold, the adventurous, and those who want to redefine what it means to drive a pickup.

So, should you take the plunge and join the Cybertruck revolution? If you're ready to embrace the future of trucks, where innovation meets audacity, then buckle up and get ready for a ride like no other. The Tesla Cybertruck isn't just a vehicle; it's a statement, and it's shouting from the rooftop of innovation, "Welcome to the future – it's electrifying!"

However, After digesting the whirlwind of Tesla Cybertruck news for nearly a week, it's clear that this electrifying pickup won't single-handedly revolutionize the automotive market, nor will it be a catastrophic flop spelling doom for Tesla.

Despite my initial skepticism about its sales potential, I now recognize that the term "flop" is relative and perhaps contingent on more realistic expectations from Tesla. Examining the specs, aesthetics, and pricing revealed that the Cybertruck is poised to attract a niche audience.

This audience will likely consist of devoted Tesla enthusiasts, individuals who genuinely appreciate its unconventional design, and those seeking the thrill of an extraordinary ride – including some celebrities and well-heeled individuals who embody all three categories.

Overall, I think the Cybertruck has these prime Superpowers:

• Electrifying Speed: Don't let its rugged exterior fool you – the Cybertruck is not just a powerhouse but also a speed demon. With lightning-fast acceleration, it can go from 0 to 60 mph in a blink of an eye, outpacing even some world-class sports cars while towing another vehicle along for the ride.

• Terrain Conqueror: Built to conquer any landscape, the Cybertruck boasts exceptional off-road capabilities. With features like air suspension offering a 12-inch range and all-terrain tires as standard, it's ready to tackle diverse terrains, from dusty lay-bys to the most challenging off-road trails.

• Limitless Electric Stamina: Armed with cutting-edge electric power, the Cybertruck's range and charging capabilities are nothing short of superhuman. From impressive driving ranges on a single charge to rapid charging at Supercharger stations, this electric pickup ensures you're always ready for the next adventure.

• Autonomous Intelligence: Equipped with Tesla's Autopilot and advanced driver-assistance features, the Cybertruck possesses a level of autonomous intelligence that adds an extra layer of safety to your journeys. While controversial, this feature showcases the vehicle's ability to look out for its passengers and navigate the roads with futuristic precision.

However, ……….

It seems unlikely that the average truck buyer considering an electric vehicle (EV) will veer away from options like the Ford Lightning or Rivian. The Cybertruck, while not as limited as its harshest critics claimed, appears more geared towards style and uniqueness than utilitarian functionality, especially when compared to traditional trucks with EV powertrains.

Anticipating the Cybertruck's presence in affluent areas like LA, Dubai, and Silicon Valley, and envisioning it at valet stands of trendy restaurants nationwide, is easy. Yet, predicting widespread usage for towing or off-roading seems less probable.

While opinions and predictions are fallible, I hesitate to envision Willy the Welder, Fred the Farmer, or Calvin the Cattle Breeder choosing the Cybertruck for their work needs.

This perspective isn't rooted in Tesla disdain or any perceived "derangement syndrome." Admittedly, like many, I haven't had the chance to drive or see the Cybertruck in person. My assessment relies on reported specifications and images.

Personally, I don't harbor a strong aversion to the Cybertruck. While its aesthetics don't win my heart, it's far from the ugliest mass-production vehicle. Whether I'll enjoy driving it remains uncertain for now. However, I maintain that it won't be a revolutionary utility vehicle; instead, it will cater to specific buyer preferences, as mentioned earlier.

Whether the Cybertruck becomes a flop or not, it's unlikely to achieve megahit status. The reality may lie somewhere in between, potentially enough for Tesla to turn a profit without succumbing to the ominous forecasts of doomsayers. Appreciating a vehicle doesn't necessitate believing it will redefine the industry. The Cybertruck, while not a guaranteed flop, certainly won't be the next big thing.