Tesla’s Cybertruck managed to pull off a delightful surprise (not) by actually costing tens of thousands more than what they initially promised. And just when you thought they couldn’t possibly top that, the automaker is now selling a previously unannounced special trim called the Foundation Series for a $20,000 premium over the most expensive version, bringing the grand total to a whopping $119,990.
In fact, it might be introducing two different “Foundation Series” versions. These variants flaunt unique laser badging, Full Self-Driving capabilities, and a plethora of extra accessories.
Regulatory filings and Tesla’s official website confirmed the existence of at least three upcoming models, including the $99,990 tri-motor variant, the $79,990 dual-motor trim, and the anticipated $60,990 single-motor RWD version that’s set for release in 2025. This new Foundation Series popped up in a couple of places, including source code data and in an invitation to one of the early reservation holders.
A series of tweets appear to confirm its existence and at least one notable Tesla fan says that there are two different versions. The $119,990 version is for the tri-motor Cyberbeast version but Tesla is also going to offer a dual-motor Foundation Series for $100,000. That’s also a cool $20,000 over the normal dual-motor Cybertruck.
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While these prices aren’t cheap, they might actually represent a savings once these benefits are accounted for. Every Foundation Series automatically comes with FSD, currently a $12,000 option on some Tesla models. In addition, it gets lifetime premium connectivity, a feature that for now, costs $99 a year for most Tesla customers.
On top of that, the Foundation Series comes with a universal wall connector, a Powershare mobile connector, and a Powershare Home backup. Those last two features would allow the Cybertruck to serve as a mobile power source if ever an owner might need that.
Last but not least, every Foundation Series will proudly display a laser-etched badge, distinguishing it as one of these exclusive trucks. However, it’s worth noting that the range extender battery pack does not appear to be included in this package.
This strategy isn’t too different from how Musk and Tesla initially navigated the market with the Model S and the original Roadster. Selling the highest-priced variant of a model can help recoup the costs of production. With the Cybertruck generating significant interest and deep-pocketed enthusiasts eager to make the purchase, Tesla’s move seems well-timed.
According to InsideEVs, Tesla plans to produce only 1,000 Foundation Series trucks. They also believe that the name of the series is closely tied to one of Elon Musk’s favorite authors, Issac Asimov. The novelist penned the Foundation Series of books that are currently the inspiration for a TV series in production. Whether that’s true is conjecture but hey, the letter “N” in each of the respective logos nearly matches.
Finally, it’s worth noting that the posts on X say that “Deliveries have already commenced in Texas and California.” It’s plausible that those willing to spend a bit extra for the Foundation Series in those states could get their truck before the end of the year.
Come wrap mine! pic.twitter.com/sU1Ce8YXwy
— Roberto Aguilar (@Rob_ing_yo_mny) December 6, 2023