Tesla unveiled its budget Cybertruck. The single-motor, rear-wheel-drive Long Range model, set for 2025, will be more than 10,000 USD cheaper than previous models. However, the basic model, initially promised by Tesla in 2019 for 39,990 USD, is no longer expected.
The Long Range model’s price is 69,990 USD, with destination and order fees of 2,245 USD, totaling 71,985 USD. This is about 10,000 USD lower than the dual-motor AWD model and 30,000 USD cheaper than the Cyber Beast. It boasts a maximum driving range of 583 km (362 miles), the longest in the Cybertruck lineup, but this figure applies only when equipped with smaller 18-inch wheels and a soft tonneau cover.
Even as a Budget Model, the Downgraded Specifications
The single-motor Cybertruck has reduced curb weight due to removing the front motor and now accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 60 mph) in 6.2 seconds with only the rear motor. This is a significant difference compared to the 4.1 seconds of the AWD model. Towing capacity has also decreased from 11,000 pounds (approximately 4,990 kilograms) to 7,500 pounds (approximately 3,400 kilograms), directly impacting the vehicle’s usability for practical users.
The internal specifications have also been scaled back. The vegan leather seats from the existing model have been replaced with fabric seats, and the ventilation feature has been removed. The audio system has been reduced from 15 speakers to 7, and the adjustable air suspension has been replaced with fixed steel springs. Ride comfort and driving performance have taken a step back compared to the previous model.
Significant differences in functionality also exist. The bed no longer includes a power outlet, while the base model has a powered tonneau cover. Buyers must pay an extra 750 USD for a soft tonneau cover, and upgrading from the standard 18-inch wheels to 20-inch ones will cost an additional 3,500 USD. As the options increase, the price advantage becomes less clear.
How Does It Compare to Competing Models? Is the Budget Title Effective?
Tesla claims this model can directly compete with the F-150 Lightning, Silverado EV, and Rivian R1T. However, some say its competitiveness is questionable when considering the actual prices. The Ford F-150 Lightning costs 65,190 USD with dual motors, while the Silverado EV costs 57,095 USD for the single motor. The Rivian R1T, priced at 71,900 USD, offers a powerful dual-motor powertrain with 533 horsepower.
While the Long Range RWD trim is one of the more affordable options within the Cybertruck lineup, it still feels expensive and somewhat unclear regarding its position in the broader market. At 70,000 USD, some argue that it’s unreasonable to consider it a budget model, especially given the significant reduction in features and specifications. Moreover, many basic features preferred by practical users of electric pickups are missing, raising questions about the model’s overall value.
The budget Cybertruck offers a full self-driving feature for an additional 8,000 USD, and indoor convenience features like floor mats and storage compartments require separate purchases. As consumer expectations rise amid the electrification trend, whether this model will meet those expectations remains uncertain.
