Tesla Cybertruck Unleashed: The Bold Supertruck Redefining the Future of Driving

The Tesla Cybertruck is not just a vehicle; it’s a statement. With its futuristic design, advanced technology, and impressive capabilities, it stands apart from any other truck on the market. But while it excels in some areas, it also has its fair share of drawbacks. Let’s dive into the details of what makes the Cybertruck a groundbreaking yet polarizing addition to Tesla’s lineup.

What’s Good?

- Standout and unique styling

- Exceptional electric range

- Smooth and refined driving experience

What’s Not So Good?

- Poor rear visibility

- Simplistic and somewhat plain interior

- Lack of a head-up display

Is the Tesla Cybertruck a Good Car?

The Tesla Cybertruck defies traditional pickup truck conventions. Its design is as if it belongs on a Star Trek set, with angular lines and rugged stainless steel body panels reminiscent of something designed in Minecraft. The look is undeniably distinctive but also divisive. Some admire its boldness, while others find it too unconventional.

One reason for its unique appearance is the stainless steel panels, which are difficult to bend and shape like traditional car bodies. This limitation results in noticeable gaps between panels, a characteristic that’s more a reflection of the material’s properties than any flaw in quality. Opening the doors involves pressing hidden buttons on the pillars, and they’re frameless at the top, adding to the Cybertruck’s futuristic aesthetic. The vehicle also boasts the largest windshield on any production car, along with the largest wiper to match. The headlights, cleverly concealed under the front panel, add to the sleek design.

Interior Features

Inside, the Cybertruck screams Tesla. A massive central touchscreen dominates the dashboard, accompanied by a small steering wheel and minimalistic design. Nearly every function is controlled through the screen, making it essential that the interface is user-friendly and responsive—which, fortunately, it is. However, the lack of a head-up display and the fiddly controls for indicators and door mirrors detract from the overall experience. While the fit and finish are decent, they don’t quite match expectations for a vehicle that can cost upwards of $100,000 in the U.S. market.

Surprisingly, what appears to be a middle seat in the front is actually a large storage compartment. The rear seats provide space for three passengers, but the sharply angled roof limits headroom. This becomes a particular concern when driving off-road, as passengers in the back risk hitting their heads on the expansive glass roof.

The Cybertruck offers an impressive amount of cargo space. Its load bed, protected by a retractable tonneau cover strong enough to support an adult’s weight, holds over 2,800 liters of cargo. Additionally, the “frunk” (front trunk) provides substantial storage and even doubles as a picnic seat. There’s also under-floor storage in the rear, ideal for securing smaller items. The maximum payload capacity is an impressive 1,134 kg, making it a practical choice for heavy-duty tasks.

Driving Experience

The Cybertruck delivers a smoother and more refined ride compared to conventional pickup trucks, which often feature a separate chassis. Acceleration in the top-tier three-motor “Cyberbeast” variant is nothing short of exhilarating, achieving 0-60 mph in just 2.6 seconds. This level of performance puts it in the league of high-performance sports cars.

Active steering, controlled electronically without a physical connection to the front wheels, is ultra-sensitive and takes some getting used to. Tesla’s decision to replace the “yoke” steering wheel used in the Model S with a more traditional design is a welcome improvement.

Range, Battery, and Charging

Depending on the model, the Cybertruck offers an electric range of 250 to 470 miles. The battery pack features Tesla’s latest cell technology, which promises enhanced durability and reliability. Charging is straightforward with Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network, capable of adding up to 136 miles of range in just 15 minutes at a maximum charge speed of 250 kW. These capabilities make long road trips more convenient than ever.

Space and Practicality

The Cybertruck provides generous space upfront, with ample storage between the seats and under the dashboard. Cupholders are oversized to accommodate large American-style cups, and the glovebox is a sliding drawer accessible via touchscreen or voice commands. However, while knee room in the rear seats is excellent, headroom is limited due to the sharply angled roofline.

The load bed outshines competitors like the Ford F-150 Lightning and Rivian R1T. Its retractable cover, tie-down points that double as bottle openers, and under-floor storage add versatility. The “frunk” in the nose provides additional space for up to 200 kg of cargo, making it ideal for road trips or outdoor adventures.

Performance and Comfort

The Cybertruck’s air suspension and active dampers deliver a smooth ride, especially at low speeds. Regenerative braking ensures seamless deceleration, while the active steering allows for easy maneuvering. On highways, the Cybertruck remains comfortable and quiet, with minimal road noise even on off-road tires. However, its size and width make it less suitable for narrow streets or twisty roads, particularly in the UK.

Pricing and Availability

The Tesla Cybertruck’s U.S. pricing ranges from $74,000 to $94,000 for the top-spec “Cyberbeast” model. While not officially available in the UK, importing one is theoretically possible but comes with regulatory challenges and additional costs. Prices are expected to differ if Tesla eventually introduces the Cybertruck to European markets.

Safety and Reliability

The Cybertruck has yet to undergo crash testing by major safety organizations like Euro NCAP or NHTSA. While its robust build inspires confidence, Tesla has faced criticism for the reliability of its driver assistance systems. Additionally, the brand’s variable build quality raises concerns. While electric motors and batteries are inherently durable, other components may not match this longevity.

Final Verdict

The Tesla Cybertruck is a bold leap forward in automotive design and technology. Its standout style, impressive performance, and innovative features make it a compelling option for those seeking a futuristic and capable electric vehicle. However, its quirks, such as limited rear visibility and a simplistic interior, may deter some buyers. Despite these flaws, the Cybertruck breaks new ground and sets a high bar for the future of electric pickup trucks.