Stunning Panel Gaps on Dirty Tesla Cybertrucks

author: FutureCar Staff    

If you're one of the many people who have pre-ordered a Cybertruck, it might be a good idea to order some stainless steel cleaner before it becomes a high-demand item and gets expensive. Additionally, considering wrapping the Cybertruck could help protect its unique design.

A Rivian R1T owner recently spotted a semi-truck in Gallup, New Mexico, carrying some Cybertruck units and shared close-up snapshots with fellow EV fans. The vehicles had duct tape on the hood, possibly to secure items in the frunk. Unlike traditional vehicles, the Cybertruck stands out with its angular design and straight edges, resembling a block of steel with wheels.

However, this design might not be suitable for European markets due to safety regulations. In the US, light-duty trucks receive exemptions from certain regulations, but European vehicles must have a flexible front end to protect pedestrians in the event of a crash. The Cybertruck's unique shape also makes it prone to getting dirty easily, requiring owners to put in extra effort to keep it clean.

The images of the Cybertruck also reveal some challenges with panel gaps and complicated body parts. These units could be sacrificial prototypes used to perfect the production process. Elon Musk emphasized the importance of precision in part dimensions and tolerances for the Cybertruck's manufacturing.

Musk announced that the Cybertruck handover event is expected to take place around the end of September 2023. He described the bulletproof truck as an exceptional product. The need for bulletproofing arose from the realization that the Cybertruck's flat surfaces required thicker planes to resist buckling and structural collapse.

Tesla's stainless steel supplier will provide the automaker with metal that is 90% recycled from scrap, reducing the Cybertruck's carbon footprint. However, this special alloy cannot be stamped for body panels and must be bent into shape, adding complexity to the manufacturing process.

While rumors suggest a starting price of around $50,000 for the Cybertruck, others claim that high-profile customers have been informed of a cost of around $70,000 for the first units. Official specifications and prices have not been released yet, but it is expected that the Cybertruck will have different variants, including rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, and a high-performance Plaid version.

It is unlikely that Tesla will directly compete with the quad-motor Rivian R1T. The pre-tax pricing for the Cybertruck could start at $50,000, but the most capable version may exceed $100,000. Additionally, the Cybertruck could qualify for the $7,500 EV tax credit.

Finally, there are reportedly 1.9 million pre-order holders eagerly waiting for their chance to configure and purchase a Cybertruck.

FutureCar Staff