The Tesla Cybertruck has probably enjoyed more media coverage than the entire LA Auto Show since its launch yesterday night. A sign of the times?
Well, it’s not hard to see why, as the design is clearly out of this world and unlike any other truck on the market — including the upcoming electric trucks from Rivian, Bollinger, and the like. The second reason for the huge interest in the Tesla Cybertruck is the fact that it’s the first pickup truck of the American brand and it has a massive sales potential in its home market.
Thirdly, it boasts really impressive for this class specs: 0-60 mph as fast as 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 130 mph (209 km/h) for the top Tri-Motor AWD model, a tow rating of 14,000 pounds (6,350 kg), and a maximum range of 500 miles (805 km). Plus, the $39,900 base price is enticing too, although the range-topping model will cost almost double that ($69,900).
Related: Tesla Cybertruck Vs. Detroit’s Traditional Trucks: We’re In The Age Of Robocop Villains
Obviously, what everyone wants to know at this point is what the Cybertruck is like to drive and how production ready it really is. While we’re still a long way from the first reviews, Tesla did give some journalists, bloggers and fans short rides in its new truck, and we’ve rounded up several videos with their impressions.
The test route through the backlot of Tesla’s Design Studio and SpaceX headquarters allowed for some acceleration runs in the dual-motor Cybertruck prototype which allegedly can do 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds. It certainly feels fast, and the impression of speed is emphasized by the truck’s massive size and chunky off-road tires whose noise is much easier to detect on an otherwise quiet electric truck.
The minimalist interior with high-tech features reminds of the Tesla Model 3 only it’s a lot roomier, offering seating for six. It also looks bare and prototype-like which should not come as surprise since this is not a production model. Right now, the question on everyone’s lips is whether the Tesla truck will go into production as it is right now given that many things can change (and probably will) until its due date sometime in 2021.