The rollout of the rear-wheel drive Cybertruck brings exciting changes, showcasing a more affordable option and exploring what features have been cut. Upcoming software updates promise to enhance Model Y's safety and practicality. Discover insights on Tesla's advancements in battery technology and community initiatives. Plus, there's lighthearted banter about cooking and the challenges of maintaining Tesla vehicles, sprinkled with tech tips and strategies for electric car enthusiasts!
The newly launched rear-wheel drive Cybertruck is significantly different from the original design, lacking many anticipated features and amenities.
With a price point of $70,000, the long-range rear-wheel drive Cybertruck offers limited towing capacity and performance compared to higher-end versions.
Tesla's upcoming software updates are expected to enhance vehicle safety and user experience with new features like adaptive headlights and customizable trunk height.
Deep dives
Rear Wheel Drive Cybertruck Introduction
Tesla has launched a new long-range rear wheel drive configuration of the Cybertruck, differing significantly from the original announcement. This configuration is priced at $70,000 before tax credits and boasts a 350-mile range with the standard 18-inch wheels. However, it is not the standard range model originally promised and lacks several features found in other versions. Notably, buyers must purchase a $750 soft tonneau cover separately for any storage security, as the bed remains open with no powered cover.
Performance and Specifications
The long-range rear wheel drive Cybertruck does not include adjustable air suspension, which affects its ride quality and ability to adjust height. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, overshadowed by the dual motor version, which does it in 4.1 seconds. Towing capacity is also scaled down to 7,500 pounds compared to the 11,000 pounds capacity of the dual motor variant. The overall payload is reduced as well, from 2,271 pounds in the dual motor to 2,006 pounds in this new long-range model.
Interior Features and Options
Inside, the long-range rear wheel drive version comes with limited options, featuring only a tactical gray textile seat material and lacks additional amenities like ventilated seats, a second-row screen, and enhanced sound systems. The center console is considered standard and does not include the premium features found in higher-end models. Additionally, the absence of a HEPA filter eliminates the bioweapon defense mode, further stripping down its appeal. The overall experience is tailored down, offering fewer high-end options that buyers may have anticipated.
Comparison with Model Y and Used Cybertrucks
When considering the value of the new long-range rear-wheel-drive Cybertruck, comparisons to the Model Y arise as it is priced $20,000 lower and offers a similar cargo capacity. While the Cybertruck provides a unique six-foot bed, folding down the Model Y's rear seats can yield significant storage. The discussion also surfaces around purchasing used dual-motor Cybertrucks, which can provide better features at a lower cost compared to the new, stripped-down variant. The overall market perception and interest in this configuration could dramatically shift based on real user needs and practical comparisons.
Updates and Future Developments
Tesla’s upcoming software updates are set to enhance the user experience with new features such as adaptive headlights and the ability to save trunk height based on location. Additional updates aim to improve safety with blind spot camera feeds and help users better plan trips with multiple options for charging stops during navigation. The technology continues to evolve, showcasing Tesla's commitment to improvements that aim to provide a safer and more user-friendly driving experience. The anticipation of future enhancements in battery technology also remains high as Tesla strives to lead in the EV market.
Tesla has finally rolled out the rear-wheel drive Cybertruck, but it’s VERY different from the one they first announced. I’ll tell you all about what you get and what you don’t on this cheaper version of Tesla’s stainless steel truck. Plus: Tesla’s imminent Spring software update brings a much-requested new feature that should keep a lot of Model Y rear liftgates from getting dented, and more!
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