Tesla Cybertruck VIN Decoder Reveals Different Drivetrain Options

author: FutureCar Staff    

Although Tesla has kept the Cybertruck's technical details under wraps, the first official details are emerging thanks to regulatory files. The 2024 Tesla VIN decoder published by the NHTSA reveals the Cybertruck's drivetrain configurations and GVWR rating.

Tesla fans eagerly await the Cybertruck's delivery event scheduled for November 30. The date suggests that this will follow in the footsteps of the Tesla Semi, whose delivery event took place last year on December 1. Especially as Elon Musk complained about the intricate manufacturing process and all the difficulties ramping up production, I don't expect many Cybertruck pickups to find their owners next month. After all, the Tesla Semi has not entered series production one year later.

Although we're only six weeks away from the big moment, Tesla is still not offering any technical data about the (already) legendary electric pickup. The Tesla community has discovered many details using forensic means, including measurements done with a measuring tape. This makes many wonder if Tesla has something to hide or if these specifications are still not finalized.

However, some of them had to be, as they must be communicated to regulators before the delivery event. Tesla must sort out all the certifications, including safety assessments and EPA ratings for the Cybertruck. This means it won't be long until we find out its best-kept secrets. And things have already started, as the NHTSA published Tesla's 2024 official VIN decoder. Although it contains only two pages, it offers essential clarifications about the Cybertruck.

The most important is the drivetrain variants on offer. According to the document, the 2024 Tesla Cybertruck will be available as a dual-motor, standard variant, and a triple-motor Performance configuration. Sadly, no single-motor or quad-motor versions of the Cybertruck will be offered, at least not in 2024.

As production gains speed and Tesla becomes more confident about its manufacturing capabilities, I wouldn't rule out introducing more trims. With more configurations comes greater complexity, which could take a toll on Tesla's production pace. It's best to keep things simple, prioritize the most popular variants initially, and slowly expand the offer from there.

Another important information in the VIN decoder document is the pickup truck's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). Based on the information on offer, the dual-motor variant's maximum weight (including passengers and cargo) qualifies it as a Class G vehicle, with a GVWR between 3,629 kg and 4,082 kg (8,001-9,000 lbs.). The heavier Triple-Motor version is classified as a Class H vehicle, with a GVWR greater than 4,082 kg to 4,536 kg (9,001-10,000 lbs.).

The GVWR rating does not equal vehicle weight, so the Cybertruck is a lot lighter than that. The rating indicates the maximum weight, including payload capacity (passengers and cargo), at which the Cybertruck can still operate safely. Even so, this basically rules out certifications in Europe, where drivers need a special license for vehicles over 3,500 kg (7,700 lbs.). These vehicles are also speed-limited to 90 kph (56 mph), which will likely deter most people from buying the Cybertruck if it gets to Europe.

FutureCar Staff