Since its unveiling in 2019, Tesla’s Cybertruck has been a topic of heated debate and fascination. Its avant-garde design, characterized by sharp angles and stainless steel, has polarized opinions. While some laud its distinctive aesthetic, others find it impractical and unattractive.
The Cybertruck’s design has sparked controversy, notably due to the large gaps between panels, which are not only visually unappealing but also raise safety concerns. Critics worry that the vehicle’s sharp edges could pose a risk of injury in accidents. Additionally, the stainless steel surface shows dirt and fingerprints easily, complicating maintenance.
Despite boasting impressive specs, such as a 0-60 mph acceleration in 2.6 seconds in the tri-motor “Cyberbeast” version, real-world performance has been erratic. Tests reveal unpredictable handling and braking, casting doubt on its reliability under various driving conditions.
Practicality issues further plague the Cybertruck. Its trunk design, with high side walls, complicates cargo access, and the front trunk (“frunk”) is less functional compared to rivals like Ford and Rivian. Moreover, unconventional side mirrors and a rearview camera system add to the driving challenge. Social media reactions have been largely negative, with criticisms targeting the vehicle’s appearance and build quality. Nonetheless, the Cybertruck has garnered substantial interest, as evidenced by numerous pre-orders, though it remains uncertain how many will translate into actual sales.
Early Setbacks The Cybertruck’s launch was marred by an embarrassing mishap in 2019. During the presentation, Tesla claimed the vehicle’s windows were bulletproof against 9mm caliber bullets. However, when Franz von Holzhausen, Tesla’s chief designer, threw a metal ball at the window, it shattered, much to the shock of onlookers, including CEO Elon Musk. Despite this, Tesla maintains that the Cybertruck is impact-resistant.
Although marketed as an off-road vehicle, the Cybertruck has struggled even with mild off-road conditions. It performs better on paved roads, disappointing many who expected more from its Off-Road Mode feature. Issues with sand, inclines, and even small riverbanks have been reported.
Recent Recall Adding to its woes, the Cybertruck was recently recalled due to a gas pedal issue. An official report indicated that lubricant between the pedal and the cover plate caused the plate to shift and get stuck under the interior trim, necessitating the recall of 3,878 vehicles produced between November 2024 and April 2024.
The Cybertruck, despite being innovative and impressive on paper, faces numerous real-world challenges and criticisms. From design and build quality issues to unpredictable performance and practical difficulties, Tesla must address these problems to meet customer expectations and secure the vehicle’s success.
