Jay Leno was spotted driving Cybertruck VIN #005. He said, “It’s incredible. It’s as fast as a Tesla Plaid.” That is high praise by a person many consider the most prominent car guy in the U.S. It seems Leno is not alone in his love for the Cybertruck.
Jay Leno spotted driving the Cybertruck! It’s his friends, Vin #5 and he says it’s “incredible!”
A whopping 33% of respondents to a recent survey are interested in purchasing this stainless steel beat straight from the future. Of course, the mainstream media and the Tesla haters put a negative spin on these results. But, a closer analysis reveals a more optimistic picture of Tesla's innovative venture into the electric truck market.
Embracing the Unique Design
Let’s remember that the designer of the Cybertruck did not like it at first. However, Tesla’s chief designer, Franz von Holzhausen (who got VIN #002), came around and kept his engineering team from revolting. That doesn’t sound like a vehicle destined to be in demand. Elon Musk said he didn’t care if they didn’t sell the avant-garde design, believing the company could go the safer route later.
The fact that one-third of survey respondents support a vehicle that looks this different from anything on the road is remarkable. It showcases a significant market segment that applauds boldness and is eager to embrace future trends in automotive design.
Appreciating the Advanced Technology
Tesla's Cybertruck isn't just about looks; it's a technological marvel. From its 48-volt electrical system and innovative steer-by-wire technology to an ultra-hard stainless-steel exoskeleton, the Cybertruck is a leap into the future of automotive technology. The survey results suggest a strong interest in advanced technology among consumers, similar to the excitement generated by the iPhone's debut.
While the Cybertruck's price has risen since its initial announcement, it reflects the value of cutting-edge technology and unmatched performance. In electric vehicles, where innovation and sustainability command a premium, the Cybertruck's pricing is competitive, especially considering its advanced features and capabilities. While the price may have moved some people out of the buyer’s pool, 33% still are ready to dive in.
Tesla's introduction of the Cybertruck is not just about selling a new model; it's about reinforcing the brand's position as a leader in innovation and sustainable technology. The 33% approval rate is a testament to Tesla's ability to maintain its brand appeal and attract a dedicated consumer base despite higher price points and unconventional designs. The initial 33% interest lays a strong foundation for future growth and market penetration in the U.S. and globally.
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Tesla’s latest FSD update, version 2024.27.5 brings some improvements when parking your vehicle. This is another undocumented, but one we’re happy to see.
Most recently, the Cybertruck received the undocumented change for the Hands-Free Frunk opening (video below). The Cybertruck also recently received Vision Park Assist, which included steering wheel guides in the visualization showing the direction the front and rear wheels were turned. However, it turns out this isn’t just for the Cybertruck.
Update: We’ve updated this article to mention that this feature isn’t included in update 2024.32 yet.
Quick video on the auto frunk. It's literally 🧍♂️📐
Due to the Cybertruck’s unique rear-wheel steering and steer-by-wire design, Park Assist in the Cybertruck displayed the path of the front wheels, and how they would swing while reversing.
This enhancement is also coming to every Tesla vehicle in FSD 12.5.2 and later. It’s also expected to be available in a future update for non-FSD vehicles. However, it’s unclear whether it will be a later revision of update 2024.32 or the next major Tesla update. This is a neat little update, as it helps drivers better understand and predict the path their vehicle will take during a turn.
Brandon, going by @teslaflexx on X, originally spotted the new visuals recently on an AMD-based Model Y running 2024.27.5 and FSD V12.5.2.
Any vehicles who are on update 2024.27.5 or 2024.27.20 should have access to this new feature.
Looks like Cybertruck wasn’t the only vehicle to get the new guide visuals with park assist. Much better than the lines! pic.twitter.com/tF9ZsWCcWy
Tesla’s Cybertruck has been used as an awesome off-road vehicle so far, with some great videos from both Tesla themselves, as well as many owners who have been challenging difficult off-road obstacles.
One frequently requested feature, however, is additional armor for the Cybertruck to improve its off-road capabilities. Wes Morril, Program Manager for the Cybertruck, has confirmed that Tesla will be introducing Battery Armor and Rock Sliders as retrofit “options” by the end of 2024.
Battery Armor
The Cybertruck’s underbody plate, while not completely unarmoured, isn’t exactly super thick, and can leave the battery exposed if the weight of the truck is left on a high-center point or a sharp rock. This upcoming battery armor will be similar to the armored undersides offered by other companies specifically for off-roading.
Rivian, for example, sells armor as a single package for $3,950 USD, or $5,800 CAD, along with a 20” wheel upgrade, full-size spare, and a utility panel including an air compressor and enough hose to let you reach any of the tires when airing up or down your tires for off-road. Tesla’s upcoming Battery Armor will be a retrofit option, unlike Rivian’s – which can only be added when purchasing the vehicle.
Rock Sliders
The Cybertruck has a simple and clean bottom corner – but that also means that it exposes the plastic trim directly. Rock sliders go on the bottom edge of off-road vehicles between the wheels to protect the vehicle's body. Rock sliders are a pretty common modification, and some companies have already begun to offer them for the Cybertruck – but a first-party OEM option is always best.
This is especially true since most third-party options use the lift points of the vehicle to attach rock sliders, which can make replacing wheels or lifting the vehicle difficult without removing the third-party additions. This adds considerable time to what should be a quick job.
Release Date
We’re looking forward to Tesla bringing these options to the Tesla store in the coming months. Wes said they’d be available as retrofits before the end of 2024, along with the upcoming Winter Tire Package, which is arriving next month. The Winter Tire Package is already available to order for Cybertruck owners.
TeslaFi logs your drives and charging sessions, letting you keep a log of your vehice's activity. We highly recommend checking them out if you use your car for business trips and would like to keep track of reimbursements, if you like to see how much you spend on charging or if you just love statistics. Visit their site and see everything they have to offer!
Tesla Android Project enables you to run Android apps in your Tesla. The platform is Open Source and you can deploy it on your own Raspberry Pi 4. Consider supporting the initiative by donating or purchasing the Compute Module 4 Bundle that delivers the best experience. Get $20 off by using the code: NotATeslaApp
The official Tesla app only notifies you if your car is broken into. By installing Sentry Pro on your phone, you will be notified for all Sentry Mode events. Stay connected and avoid potential surprises by receiving notifications. Stop constantly checking the cameras to ensure safety. Check only when necessary, save battery and get peace of mind. Get a 7 day free trial here!
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