Category: Cybertruck

Tesla Cybertruck Ventures into Gulf of Mexico

A Tesla Cybertruck prototype recently made headlines by taking an unexpected plunge into the Gulf of Mexico, raising curiosity about its water capabilities. A video shared on Reddit captures the electric truck driving into shallow waters at Port Aransas, Texas, much to the surprise of onlookers. Though the truck only submerged in a few inches of water, it sparked speculation about its potential boat-like features.

Purpose of the Water Test and Future Prospects

Tesla’s decision to drive the Cybertruck into the ocean might be more than just a stunt; it could be part of testing its water fording abilities. While the truck remained in shallow water, concerns about getting stuck in wet sand were mitigated by the beach’s stable sand conditions. This test hints at the possibility of future innovations, as Elon Musk previously suggested the Cybertruck might be able to briefly serve as a boat, potentially crossing bodies of water like rivers and lakes.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the Cybertruck?

Elon Musk’s 2022 statements about the Cybertruck’s waterproof capabilities and possible channel-crossing abilities continue to intrigue enthusiasts. While the current test was limited to shallow waters, the upcoming delivery event on November 30 might reveal more about the Cybertruck’s floating potential and other key features. As Tesla moves forward, it will be interesting to see how the Cybertruck’s performance aligns with its ambitious promises.

The Controversial Call for Cybertruck Cancellation

Jefferies analyst Philippe Houchois has stirred controversy by suggesting that Tesla might be better off canceling the much-anticipated Cybertruck. Houchois has revised Tesla’s stock price target downward to $210 per share, attributing this to lowered earnings projections and reduced free cash flow. His recommendation comes just as the Cybertruck is on the brink of its delivery debut, sparking significant debate and criticism from the public and industry watchers alike.

Industry and Analyst Insights

Houchois’ criticism extends beyond the Cybertruck itself, pointing out broader challenges Tesla faces in the coming months. He notes that the company might struggle to gain traction while European automakers introduce affordable electric vehicles and Chinese competitors accelerate their product cycles. This perspective aligns with CEO Elon Musk’s recent statements, acknowledging that while the Cybertruck is a promising product, it may not substantially boost Tesla’s financials for another 12 to 18 months.

Strategic Focus and Future Outlook

Instead of investing heavily in ramping up Cybertruck production, Houchois suggests Tesla should redirect resources towards high-volume segments and improving the supply of 4680 batteries for the Model Y. As the highly anticipated delivery event approaches, it’s worth noting that initial Cybertruck deliveries might be limited to a small number of company employees. However, despite a slow start, the Model 3’s eventual success demonstrates that initial setbacks do not necessarily preclude long-term achievement.

Anticipation Builds for Tesla Cybertruck’s Capabilities

The Tesla Cybertruck, long the subject of speculation and excitement among a diverse group ranging from drone operators to automotive journalists, continues to capture the imagination of its eager audience. With the official delivery event just around the corner, the automotive community is abuzz with fresh details emerging almost daily. Recently, sightings at Tesla stores in San Diego and San Jose confirmed that the displayed models, which resemble production units rather than prototypes, exhibit flawless craftsmanship with no panel gaps visible.

Showroom Displays Hint at Impressive Specifications

Tesla’s promotional materials in these showrooms reveal that the Cybertruck boasts a payload capacity of 2,500 pounds and a towing capability of 11,000 pounds, aligning with earlier leaks. These figures are prominently displayed, possibly to attract customers during the busy holiday shopping season. However, it remains unclear which specific battery and motor configurations will support these impressive statistics.

Comparing the Cybertruck to Rivals

The Tesla Cybertruck’s reported specifications suggest it could outperform key competitors like the Ford F-150 Lightning and the GMC Hummer EV Pickup, particularly in towing capacity and payload. While Ford’s F-150 Lightning can haul up to 2,235 pounds and tow 10,000 pounds, and the GMC Hummer EV Pickup maxes out at a 8,500-pound trailer rating with a 1,300-pound payload capacity, the Cybertruck’s capabilities are set to exceed these. Moreover, the use of ultra-tough sheet molding composite (SMC) for the bed enhances durability and reduces weight, suggesting that Tesla is leveraging advanced materials to optimize performance and utility.

This strategic introduction of the Cybertruck aims to set new standards in the electric truck segment, potentially reshaping market expectations and consumer preferences. The upcoming delivery event is poised to offer more than just a glimpse into the future of electric haulage—it promises to mark a significant milestone in Tesla’s ambitious automotive journey.

Imminent Launch of Tesla Cybertruck

Tesla has announced that the highly anticipated delivery of the Cybertruck will commence in November 2023, mere weeks away. This news comes as the company ramps up pilot production at the Gigafactory Texas, signaling readiness for the first batch of deliveries. Although initially limited in volume, the launch is poised to be a significant milestone, potentially reshaping the electric pickup market.

Innovative Delivery and Production Integration

Tesla’s latest financial snapshot included a striking image of a white Tesla Semi transporting three Cybertrucks, hinting at a novel delivery method for the initial batch. This strategy not only serves as an effective marketing tool but also demonstrates Tesla’s extensive vertical integration. The use of its own Semis for delivery illustrates the company’s ability to control and streamline its supply chain, from production to customer handover.

Production Capacity and Future Prospects

Tesla’s Q3 report also disclosed that the Cybertruck’s current annual production capacity exceeds 125,000 units, with full-scale production expected to ramp up in 2024. As production scales, Tesla might significantly utilize its Gigafactory’s capacity, with expectations of expanding output as seen with other models. Additionally, the Cybertruck boasts impressive specifications, including superior towing capabilities and advanced battery technology, setting new standards for electric utility vehicles.

The stealthy pre-production model was spotted in California.

A section of Interstate 280 near Palo Alto in California seems to be a prime viewing spot for the Tesla Cybertruck. Last week we saw a camouflaged prototype fly by on the highway. Now fresh spy shots, shared by the Cybertruck Owners Club, showcase a prototype wearing a new dark camouflage, cruising smoothly with its tonneau cover left open.

It also has tinted windows – something we’re seeing for the first time – possibly to hide updates to the interior. Tesla normally uses black covers on its test vehicles, as is evident with the Model 3 Project Highland, but several Cybertruck prototypes have been appearing over the past few months with camouflage.

Tesla could be using darker camouflage to hide possible design elements, especially if there are updates to the existing design that many fans and enthusiasts have come to know and admire. So far, we’ve mostly seen the Cybertruck in its stainless steel exoskeleton, along with a few test mules with a lighter camouflage.

The darker version certainly appears more menacing than the previous pre-production models we’ve seen.

The Austin-headquartered brand is inching closer to the official start of Cybertruck production. Last week, Tesla tweeted a picture of what appeared to be the first production version at Gigafactory Texas, but during the Q2 2023 Earnings Call, the brand stated that it is currently building release candidates for final certification and validation.

First customer vehicles will likely roll out later this year, when low-scale production commences followed by mass production early next year. The model S3XY maker also stated that the Cybertruck will be the first sub 19 feet electric truck that has both four doors and a bed longer than six feet.

As of the end of 2022, there were reportedly over 1.5 million reservations for the EV. All those orders might not convert into actual sales, but there’s little doubt that this is one of the most anticipated EVs in recent years, which could transform the look of American roads with its outlandish design.

Exciting Advances in Battery Technology

Tesla’s latest update reveals that the Cybertruck will feature an upgraded version of its 4680 battery cells, promising a 10% boost in energy density compared to current models. This enhancement, announced during the Q2 earnings call, is the result of advanced process improvements and design optimizations, according to Tesla’s senior VP Drew Baglino. This increase is particularly noteworthy as it surpasses the energy density of Tesla’s existing 2170 cells and hints at substantial advancements in battery technology.

Impact on Performance and Production

The energy density improvement could potentially extend the Cybertruck’s driving range or allow for a more compact battery pack without compromising performance. However, Tesla has not yet clarified the exact benefits this will bring to consumers. Alongside this development, Tesla’s production of 4680 cells at its Texas facility surged by 80% in the second quarter, reflecting significant progress and a 25% reduction in production costs due to decreased raw material expenses. These strides are a promising sign of Tesla’s commitment to reducing battery costs and enhancing efficiency in line with the goals set at the 2020 Battery Day event.