Tesla Cybertruck: The Ultimate Electric Pickup Truck?

Unique Design and Practicality

The first thing I thought when I saw the Cybertruck at Tesla’s amazing Delivery Event on November 30, was that it looks military tough (I am an Army Veteran) and also feels like a stunning art piece. I learned from the engineers in the factory at Giga Texas that the stainless steel exoskeleton is also highly durable. The Tesla Armor Glass and self-leveling suspension make the Cybertruck a formidable force on the road, or even when you adventure off-road!

Safety Features

To get to the event, I let my Model Y take me there using Tesla’s safety first software: FSD beta. The Cybertruck is equipped with the same advanced safety features as my Model Y, like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. These features are free and standard for all Tesla vehicles. The Cybertruck also has Enhanced Autopilot, and all FSD beta features, designed to keep you safe. 

According to a recent study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), vehicles equipped with Tesla's Autopilot, Enhanced Autopilot, and FSD beta features have shown a significant reduction in crash rates compared to vehicles without them. Sources even suggest that Tesla's Autopilot and FSD beta features have an 86% lower crash rate than the US average. This is 3.7 times lower than Tesla vehicles without these features.  Source: Tesla Shares FSD Beta Statistics and They’re Impressive

Comparison with Other Electric Pickup Trucks

When comparing the Cybertruck to other electric pickup trucks, such as the Ford Lightning, Rivian R1T, and the upcoming GM electric pickup, the Cybertruck stands out with its unique design, impressive towing capacity, extended range, and fast acceleration.

Utility

The Cybertruck boasts an impressive towing capacity and payload of 11,000 lbs., making it a fantastic choice for those who need to haul heavy loads. The rear seat storage option and adaptive air suspension ensure improved off-road capability and ride comfort.

Technology

The Cybertruck boasts a range of innovative features, such as the highly acclaimed steer-by-wire for all 4 wheels and rear steering for improved handling, a 48V architecture that is ground-breaking in the automotive industry, and a 15-speaker audio system with two subwoofers for an immersive listening experience.

Tesla's Cybertruck Delivery Event had limited time. I chose to learn about Tesla’s redesigned steer-by-wire system, so I did not listen to the sound system demo. 

Production and Manufacturing Challenges

The processes and challenges in engineering and manufacturing the Cybertruck are different than any other vehicle. Tesla is making a significant investment in the biggest and most precise robots to ensure the successful production of the Cybertruck. I saw some robots that were so massive that I wondered how they existed on this earth! I learned that to make Cybertrucks at the fastest rate, these robots are required. Here’s a picture of one that moves the Cybertruck body from the top floor where it is made to the lower floor where assembly continues. 

Conclusion

I plan to take delivery of a Cybertruck (when it's my turn in the long queue). I want to experience the best combination of safety, utility, and technology Tesla offers. If you are also thinking of a Cybertruck, consider reserving one and leasing it or financing it through Xcelerate.