After many production delays and doomsday prognosticator predictions that the Tesla Cybertruck would never see the light of day, Elon Musk’s Tesla rolled out the electric truck in November 2023. It’s one of those vehicles everyone has an opinion about, and you can argue that as many people love it and think it’s cool as hate it and think it’s uncool.
One thing you can’t do is not see it when you see it. How can you miss a massive electric truck that weighs close to 7,000 pounds, can do 0 to 60 mph in 2.6 seconds, and is made from a stainless steel alloy exoskeleton?
It’s available in two models: the AWD dual-motor model and the AWD tri-motor Cyberbeast model. A less expensive RWD single-motor model is due in 2025.
It Hasn’t Been Smooth Sailing
Tesla has issued six Cybertruck recalls this year, which is significant considering the EV was only rolled out in November 2023. The most recent recall was for a faulty inverter. It has also issued recalls for the rearview camera, accelerator pedal, windshield wipers, exterior trim, and instrument panel in the past.
With half a dozen recalls in such a short time, the anti-Cybertruck crowd has plenty of ammunition to lob at the electric truck and its supporters. However, it can be argued that the pluses outweigh the negatives.
Here are 15 things about the Tesla Cybertruck that may make the electric truck a frontrunner if you’re in the market for a new vehicle.
Futuristic Appearance
Whether you love or hate the Cybertruck, you must admit it has a futuristic design. It combines flat surfaces and sharp edges to look like something out of the pages of a sci-fi novel.
While its angular profile attracts eyes, the electric truck nonetheless has a minimal aesthetic by skipping the decorative details you’ll usually see on other pickup trucks.
If you want something that looks like nothing else on the road, the Cybertruck might belong at or near the top of your shortlist.
Powerful Acceleration
It’s impressive to watch a sports car go from 0 to 60 mph in 2.6 seconds, but seeing a Cybertruck do the same is beyond impressive.
If you want a truck that can drive as fast as a sports car, there may be a Cybertruck on a dealership lot with your name on it. One source says the Cyberbeast model can do 0 to 100 mph in 6.6 seconds, which smokes the Porsche 911 GT3 RS.
Does a pickup truck need to be so fast? Probably not. But that’s not the point. If you want an electric truck with sports car speed, the Cybertruck is an option.
High Towing Capacity
Do you need a truck that can tow? The Cybertruck can tow up to 11,000 lbs in dual- and tri-motor configurations, while the single-motor model due in 2025 can tow a respectable 7,500 lbs.
While you should remember that towing with an EV will reduce the range, you can factor that into the equation when deciding how much and how far to tow with your Cybertruck.
Impressive Payload
Payload is also a strong point for the Cybertruck since every model can haul 2,500 lbs in the composite cargo bed. The bed size is six feet by four feet, which is big enough for most people’s needs.
Adaptable Suspension
Once upon a time, you would buy a truck knowing full well that functionality trumped comfort. But trucks these days, the Cybertruck included, often balance performance with comfort.
The Cybertruck is equipped with an adaptive air suspension system that features height-adjustable air suspension and adaptive Bilstein shocks—all of which balance performance, comfort, and range.
Long Range
Cybertrucks offer sufficient driving ranges between charges to meet most people’s needs. Depending on the model, you can get between 250 to 340 miles. But with the available range extender, you can boost the top-end range to 470 miles. If towing is a priority, you may want to avoid the 250-mile-range RWD model and stick with one of the other models.
Over-the-Air Updates
Do you hate having to drive to a service center every time there’s a recall? One of the benefits Tesla owners enjoy is the option for over-the-air updates. While there are times you’ll have to go to a service center, over-the-air updates will be an option much of the time.
Whether to correct issues or to equip the vehicle with security or performance updates or upgrades, you’ll often get them without having to book an appointment, drive to a service center, and wait around.
Onboard Power Outlets
Whether you want to use your Cybertruck as a work truck and need to power tools, or you want to take the electric truck camping and need to power an air fryer, the onboard power outlets will help. It’s one more reason there might be a Cybertruck with your name on it.
Bidirectional Charging
The Cybertruck also has bidirectional charging capabilities—something only a handful of EVs offer. Bidirectional charging means that it can charge and power other devices.
If you want a backup for the power grid, the Cybertruck has vehicle-to-home functionality, which means it can serve as a backup generator and power your home during a power outage. Assuming your home’s daily power consumption is 30 kWh, a Cybertruck can power the residence for three days. Another benefit of bidirectional charging is that the Cybertruck can power other EVs.
Shatter-Resistant Glass
The Tesla Cybertruck is made using shatter-resistant glass that is tougher than the glass windows in most other vehicles. The EV maker patented a kind of glass called Armor Glass, which is made from borosilicate.
Autopilot and Full Self-Driving Options
While the thought of autonomous vehicles still frightens some people, the technology is getting better. And Tesla happens to be one of the leading companies advancing the technology.
The Cybertruck has Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (Supervised). Auto lane change, traffic-aware cruise control, auto steer, and navigation on Autopilot are included in the Autopilot system. Full Self-Driving (Supervised) includes traffic and stop sign control, smart summon that navigates the EV to find you a parking spot, and automatic emergency braking.
Large Storage Space
A Cybertruck is also a good idea if you want a truck and need ample storage space. While the truck bed may be narrower than you’d like, it has under-bed storage, a front trunk, and interior storage.
Strong Build
Another reason to consider the Cybertruck is the strong body build. As was mentioned earlier, it’s made from a stainless steel exoskeleton affording more protection for vehicle occupants if there’s an accident.
Steer By Wire System
One complaint some motorists have about large vehicles is that they can be tricky to maneuver. That’s especially true in tight spaces like parking lots. But the Cybertruck’s steer-by-wire system takes away the mechanical connection between the EV’s wheels and the steering wheel.
Sensors installed in the steering column electronically communicate with the steering rack, resulting in responsive steering that requires less input from the driver, more maneuverability, and energy efficiency.
Tough Underbody Protection
If you do a lot of off-roading, the Cybertruck’s strong underbody protection will give you peace of mind. Steel plates protect the underside from damage when you’re off-roading and exploring off the beaten path.
Is a Cybertruck in Your Future?
There are now tons of Cybertrucks out in the wild. And you can bet they attract attention. If in the market for an EV with towing and hauling capabilities, a Cybertruck might be exactly what you need.
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