We’ve been sitting in hot anticipation since the announcement of the Tesla Cybertruck a few years ago. Now, that wait could be at an end.
The 2023 model year just got more exciting with the news that this full-electric pickup truck is hitting the market. For nearly four years, we’ve been waiting for this stainless-steel covered pickup that looks different from every other truck in the market. A few models have been seen around the Tesla facility in Austin, Texas, with some models nearly ready to head out to those names at the top of the order list for this Tesla truck.
What is the Cybertruck?
This question has been asked and answered several times over the past four years. This truck doesn’t look anything like other trucks in the market. It brings sharp lines and large flat panels of ultra-hard stainless steel that’s been cold-rolled to make it extremely tough. The thickness of this steel is such that it can’t be shaped with curves and creases, which is why the Cybertruck has such a distinctive design.
This new truck shell surrounds a cabin and powertrain that gives owners the three-motor/AWD system in the top version. We’re being told this pickup can run for 500 miles on a single charge, reach 60 mph in 2.9 seconds, and tow up to 14,000 pounds.
Could the Cybertruck be the Most Capable Electric Pickup?
The Tesla Cybertruck comes with three power settings with extremely different price points. This truck can be had with one, two, or three electric motors, but the payload might be where we see some serious capability numbers. The tow rating at the top is better than the GMC Hummer EV and Ford F-150 Lightning, but that payload could make a huge difference.
The Cybertruck can carry up to 3,500 pounds, which is a lot more than most rivals. The F-150 Lightning has a max payload of 2,000 pounds, the Chevy Silverado EV can carry 1,300 pounds, and the Rivian R1T carries up to 1,760 pounds. It looks like the Cybertruck is way ahead of the rest.
Mostly Good, But One Thing Hits the Pro and Con List
Most of what you want when you see this new Tesla is present, making it a tough and rugged truck that could get things done. The Cybertruck offers a 500-mile driving range, which is insanely good, it has an intriguing build, which attracts many Tesla drivers, and the payload and towing are impressive compared to other electric trucks. The striking looks are what hits both the good and the bad. The style is certainly polarizing and might turn some away from this new Tesla truck.
The Cabin Will Take Some Getting Used To
You won’t see a traditional steering wheel inside the Tesla Cybertruck. Instead, you get a steering yoke, fashioned after the steering apparatus in aircraft and race cars. The dashboard looks like what you expect in a Tesla, with a massive 17-inch touchscreen for all of your controls. This truck is wide enough for six people to enjoy the drive. There are some extra storage areas under the rear seats as well as a frunk where a traditional engine would normally reside.
What’s Special About the Exterior of the Cybertruck?
The stressed body of the Cybertruck is called the exoskeleton, similar to what we find on insects. This shell is made of super-strong material that could be ideal for this truck. The stainless steel is hard to dent, and it resists corrosion, which means it doesn’t need to be painted. The side glass is also extra strong with a polymer-layered composite build.
Some of the exterior features might be the cause of the delays we’ve found with this truck. The Cybertruck doesn’t have side mirrors or windshield wipers. The side mirrors are replaced by a pair of rear-facing cameras in the front fenders.
Tesla has filed a patent to use electromagnetic wipers that requires less electricity than regular wipers. Another delaying solution is the idea that a laser could be used to keep the rain away from the large windscreen. We’re unsure if production models will have these advanced features or if they will have wipers and mirrors to meet regulations and allow this truck to hit the streets.
What Features Will You Find in this Truck?
The starting point of the Tesla Cybertruck gives you an adaptive air suspension which allows this truck to have 16 inches of ground clearance. Inside, you see the massive 17-inch infotainment display, a rearview camera mirror, a full set of advanced safety features, and a large tonneau cover over the bed of the truck.
The 6.5-foot bed can accommodate 4×8-ft sheets of plywood when the tailgate is down. There are also two power outlets in the bed, one for 120-volt items and one for 240-volt features. This area also features an air compressor to make it a useful truck for work crews.
The Full Self-Driving package of safety and driving aids is optional for the Cybertruck, giving this pickup a system that allows for some hands-free driving on most roads. Other options you’ll find include AWD, the choice of motors, and a loading ramp. We don’t know if heated seats will be standard or optional, and this truck might be sold with an optional Cyberquad, which is a companion ATV, and a pop-up camper that fits well with this Tesla pickup.
What are the Three Powertrain Stats?
Without news of the power delivered, we do know a few things expected of the three different powertrains offered by the Tesla Cybertruck. The single-motor model brings an RWD setup, a driving range of 250 miles, and a tow rating of 7,500 pounds.
Move to the dual-motor layout, and you’ve got AWD, a 300-mile driving range, and 10,000 pounds of towing ability.
The three-motor setup has one motor in the front and two in the rear. This model gives you the most of both driving range, at 500 miles, and towing, at 14,000 pounds.
Does the new 2023 Tesla Cybertruck offer enough interesting qualities and features to put it on your list? You might have to wait for a little while. There’s already a long list of consumers with reservations for this new all-electric truck.
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