Tesla has introduced a new entry-level Cybertruck that boasts a longer range and a price tag of $69,990, excluding the federal $7,500 credit. To achieve this price, Tesla has made notable sacrifices in features.
The latest “long range” Cybertruck is equipped with a single RWD motor, as opposed to the dual motors found in the AWD version. It also does not include a powered roll-up hard tonneau cover, leaving buyers with the option to either leave the bed open or purchase a $750 fitted soft tonneau cover. According to Tesla, this cover offers an aerodynamic range boost of 12 miles.
The Cybertruck Long Range can travel up to 350 miles on a single charge, surpassing the AWD model by 25 miles, or up to 362 miles when equipped with the soft tonneau cover. However, its towing capacity is reduced to 7,500 lbs, compared to 11,000 lbs available on other trims.
Acceleration is slower for the RWD variant, reaching 0-60 mph in 6.2 seconds, while the pricier AWD model achieves this in just 4.1 seconds. Tesla has also omitted features such as adaptive suspension and 120V and 240V power outlets from the RWD model, eliminating the ability to power tools while on the move. Additionally, the battery range extender option was recently removed.
The interior of the Cybertruck RWD features textile seats, as opposed to leatherette in other models, and it lacks the rear seat infotainment touchscreen.
During the company’s 2023 delivery event, Tesla announced that the original RWD option had an advertised range of 250 miles and a price of $60,990, although this version was never released. In 2024, the base RWD option was discontinued. The new, higher-priced RWD model is now available for order in the US, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia.
Despite the hype, Tesla has faced challenges in selling Cybertrucks, with reports indicating that only 50,000 units were sold in 2024 against approximately one million reservations. The company is also experiencing a 13 percent decline in vehicle sales year over year, a situation that can be partly attributed to CEO Elon Musk’s involvement in the “Department of Government Efficiency” during the Trump Administration.
