Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk finally showcased the first batch of Cybertrucks at the company’s factory in Austin, Texas, after a two-year delay from the initially scheduled release. Amid ongoing uncertainties about large-scale production, Musk presented the angular electric trucks, emphasizing their uniqueness and futuristic design during a broadcast on the X social media platform.
Rivals in the Electric Truck Arena: Ford, GM, and Stellantis in the Mix
Targeting the lucrative US auto market dominated by Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis, Tesla’s Cybertruck faces stiff competition. However, since Musk unveiled the concept four years ago, all three Detroit automakers have introduced their own electric trucks. Ford, GM, and the emerging Rivian already have electric trucks available, with an electric Ram scheduled for an early 2023 release.
Cybertruck Features and Innovations: A Stainless Steel Body and Impressive Performance
Musk highlighted the unique features of the Cybertruck, including its stainless steel alloy body, chosen for its corrosion resistance and mass-production feasibility. The truck boasts 43 cm of ground clearance, rapid acceleration from zero to 97 km/h in 2.6 seconds, four-wheel steering, and the ability to carry over one ton in its bed while towing over 5,000 kg. Videos presented during the event showcased the Cybertruck’s prowess in outperforming competitors like the Porsche 911 and Ford Super Duty in towing.
Production Challenges and Musk’s Candid Remarks: “We Dug Our Own Grave”
Musk acknowledged the challenges faced in bringing the Cybertruck to market, lamenting the difficulty of producing a truck with a stainless steel body. He expressed doubts about reaching the production target of 250,000 units per year until 2025 and tempered expectations due to “enormous challenges” in mass production. Musk emphasized the company’s commitment to delivering an innovative and special product, acknowledging the difficulty of such endeavors in the market.
Pricing and Delivery: From $60,990 to $99,990, Amid Expectations and Stunts
The rear-wheel-drive version of the Cybertruck is priced at an estimated $60,990, while the top-line “Cyberbeast” starts at $99,990. Despite reservations exceeding one million, Musk stressed the challenge of making the truck affordable while generating positive cash flow. The ceremony concluded with a successful repeat of a window durability test that had previously gone awry in 2019, with the trucks delivered to buyers amid an enthusiastic atmosphere.
SOURCE: Ref Image from NewsBytes
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