Tesla Cybertruck Panel Gaps Exposed

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 also be a wise choice. Here's why.

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 were exposed and had duct tape on the hood, presumably to secure whatever was in the frunk. Unlike traditional vehicles, the Cybertruck has a unique angular design with straight edges that give it a rugged and industrial appearance. However, this design might not be suitable for European regulations, which require vehicles to have a flexible front end for pedestrian safety.

Another challenge with the Cybertruck's design is that it seems to get dirty easily, and any blemishes or fingerprints would be quite noticeable on its sleek surfaces. The images also reveal that achieving seamless panel gaps is difficult with such complex body parts. However, markings on the doors suggest that these units could be candidates for production and may have been tested in various harsh environments to perfect the manufacturing process.

Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, has communicated to employees that precision is crucial in the production of the Cybertruck. He emphasized the importance of ensuring part dimensions are accurate and requested tolerances to be within single-digit micron measurements. Musk has also stated that the Cybertruck handover event is expected to take place around the end of September 2023, describing the vehicle as an exceptional product.

The concept of the Cybertruck being bulletproof likely emerged after the realization that the flat surfaces of the vehicle would require thicker planes to prevent buckling. Tesla's stainless steel supplier has committed to providing metal that is 90% recycled from scrap, reducing the production carbon footprint. However, this special alloy cannot be stamped to make the body panels and must be bent into shape, adding complexity to the manufacturing process.

There have been rumors about the starting price of the Cybertruck, with some speculating around $50,000. This estimate aligns with Elon Musk's comments on the price reduction of Ford's F-150 Lightning Pro. However, other sources claim that high-profile customers of the first units were advised to prepare for a cost of around $70,000. It's important to note that there is no official confirmation on the specifications and prices of the Cybertruck.

It is expected that the Cybertruck will be available in different variants, including an entry-level rear-wheel drive version, a dual-motor all-wheel-drive variant, and the high-performance Cybertruck Plaid with a tri-motor powertrain. While it is unlikely that Tesla will directly compete with the quad-motor Rivian R1T, the Cybertruck's pricing could range from $50,000 to over $100,000 for the most capable version. Additionally, the Cybertruck may qualify for the $7,500 EV tax credit.

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

FutureCar Staff