Tesla’s much-anticipated Cybertruck delivery event recently unfolded, marking a new chapter in electric vehicle innovation. The event, characterized by its electrifying dubstep beats and neon ambiance, saw Tesla CEO Elon Musk hand over the first set of Cybertrucks. Among the lucky recipients were notable figures like Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian and Phillip Sarofim of Trousdale Ventures.
Despite the live stream’s brief duration, around 30 minutes, it encompassed everything Tesla enthusiasts relish: a blend of spectacle, influential attendees, and, naturally, Musk’s charismatic presence. This launch has been a long time coming, with initial musings about a Tesla truck surfacing six years ago and the official unveiling happening four years prior.
Let’s delve into what we’ve learned about the Tesla Cybertruck, moving past its flashy, bulletproof exterior.
Tesla plans to roll out the Cybertruck in three variants. Initially, the base model, a rear-wheel-drive version boasting a 250-mile range and a 6.9-second sprint from 0 to 60 mph, won’t hit the roads until 2025. Its anticipated price starts at $60,990. This leaves us with the all-wheel version and the Cyberbeast.
The all-wheel-drive Cybertruck, priced at $79,990, is expected to deliver a 341-mile range and a top speed of 112 mph. On the other hand, the Cyberbeast, estimated at $99,990, promises a 320-mile range, an impressive 845 horsepower, and a 0 to 60 mph time of just 2.6 seconds, with a top speed of 130 mph. Both models boast an 11,000-pound towing capacity.
Tesla also intends to offer a range extender, potentially increasing the all-wheel drive variant to 470 miles and the Cyberbeast to over 440 miles. However, finer details about this feature remain under wraps.
It’s worth noting that the current specifications differ from what was initially announced in 2019. Back then, the entry-level model was expected to be priced at $39,900 with a 7,500-pound towing capacity, while the top-tier model, known as the “tri motor,” was projected at $69,900 with a 14,000-pound towing capacity.
The production-ready Cybertrucks boast a drag coefficient of 0.335, 35-inch all-terrain tires, a six-foot by four-foot truck bed, and ample lockable storage space, totaling 67 cubic feet. Notably, the vehicle features steer-by-wire technology, enhancing maneuverability.
A significant upgrade is the armored glass, now resistant to impacts like a baseball thrown at 70 mph or class 4 hail. This improvement comes after the infamous 2019 incident where the glass shattered during a demonstration. In a successful test this time, chief designer Franz Von Holzhausen threw a baseball at the Cybertruck’s window without incident.
Tesla has also transitioned to a 48-volt electrical system, mirroring moves by other automakers for enhanced power efficiency. This system is robust enough to power tools, a selling point for the Cybertruck.
The vehicle’s electronically adaptive air suspension provides up to 17 inches of clearance, catering to various driving conditions.
Inside the Cybertruck, the innovation continues. Entry into the vehicle is facilitated by a button on the B-pillar. The interior features an 18.5-inch infinity touchscreen upfront and a 9.4-inch touchscreen in the rear. The Cybertruck boasts a 15-speaker sound system, complete with two subwoofers and distributed amplifiers. Other notable amenities include a built-in HEPA air filter, a wireless charging system, and multiple power outlets.
In summary, the Tesla Cybertruck marks a bold step in the evolution of electric vehicles, blending futuristic design with practical features. Its unique combination of performance, utility, and technology positions it as a pivotal player in the electric pickup truck market, setting new standards for what an EV can be. As these trucks hit the roads, they’re not just a testament to Tesla’s innovation but a glimpse into the future of sustainable transportation.
