Key Takeaways
1. The RWD Cybertruck is now officially recognized as a base model with a range of up to 363 miles and a starting price of $69,990, potentially dropping to $62,490 with tax credits.
2. Tesla’s production of the RWD version took 18 months, following the initial release of pricier AWD models.
3. The RWD Cybertruck is lighter and has a longer range than the dual-motor AWD model, but it lacks several features that come with the AWD version.
4. Many early reservations for the single-motor version may be disappointed, as the base model starts significantly higher than the previously suggested price of $40,000.
5. Tesla aims to boost sales with the RWD trim launch around June or July, offering early buyers discounted Full Self-Driving (FSD) for $7,000.
The RWD Cybertruck, which has been listed in the IRS tax credit database for some time, is now officially recognized as a base model, boasting an impressive range of up to 363 miles.
Reservations and Launch
Prior to the Cybertruck’s release, there was a significant number of reservations for its tri-, dual-, and single-motor models. True to form, Tesla first unveiled its electric pickup with the pricier Foundation Series and AWD versions.
As Elon Musk mentioned, it took around 18 months for Tesla to increase production of the Cybertruck to a level where they could finally introduce the more affordable RWD version, which has now been made official.
Pricing and Comparison
To achieve the lower price of the RWD Cybertruck, Tesla has made several compromises, making it questionable if the savings are justified when compared to the AWD model. The starting price for the Cybertruck RWD is $69,990, while the AWD variant starts at $79,990.
Thanks to the federal tax credit for American-made vehicles, the price of the RWD can drop to $62,490, marking it as the most affordable Cybertruck yet. However, the price difference with the AWD model remains a mere ten thousand dollars.
Features and Options
While the RWD version is lighter and has a longer range compared to the dual-motor AWD option, it’s not just a motor that was removed to achieve this lower price. Tesla has also provided a comparison list of features and options, highlighting what the budget-friendly Cybertruck lacks.
Tesla markets the new RWD Cybertruck as an Endurance Hauler, emphasizing its 350-mile range and simple interior with cloth seating.
Those who reserved the single-motor version when Elon Musk claimed it would start at $40,000 may feel let down. Not only does the base Cybertruck start at over $60,000, but it also lacks many desirable features, such as the air suspension that enhances ground clearance and the rear light bar.
Future Prospects
The disparity between the number of Cybertrucks produced and those shipped grew so large that Tesla decided to roll out the affordable RWD trim, hoping to boost sales in the second quarter.
Early buyers of the RWD Cybertruck, set to launch around June or July, will at least be able to buy FSD for $7,000 instead of the full price, which may offer some relief for the many missing features on this entry-level model.
Source:
Link
Leave a Reply