Despite first being launched in November 2023, Tesla’s Cybertruck has begun to gain more attention in recent weeks. Throughout the summer, Elon Musk took it on a European and Middle Eastern Tour, showcasing it across 100 stops for the public to see. It’s currently only available to buy in America, and it might be quite some time before we see it on our smaller roads. However, Musk has hinted that he wants it available in the UK and Europe on the platform, X.
Former Top Gear presenter, James May, recently took it for a test drive in California and despite calling it "childish" and "quite humorous" he was impressed by its overall design and particularly noted its ‘steer by wire’ feature, where the Cybertruck has no mechanical steering backing whatsoever. The vehicle operates without a steering column that turns the direction of the wheels mechanically but relies on sensors and electronics to replace the physical connection between the car’s steering wheel and the wheels.
Aside from the steering, it has several impressive features under its belt which include:
- 33.5-inch wheels
- Towing capacity of 14,000lbs
- 0 to 60mph in 2.6 seconds
- 17-inch touchscreen
- 340 miles range on a 15-minute supercharge
Whatever you may think of the Cybertruck, it has to be said that it boasts an impressive spec. Alongside being able to go 340 miles on a single charge, it can also transfer power to any other vehicle - which could be handy if you’re driving on a long journey with limited EV charging points. Additionally, it has enough seating for five passengers, helping it to embody the family style truck that's popular on American roads. Tesla’s website states the Cybertruck is also, ‘built for any planet’ and it's glass windows are completely ‘shatter resistant.’
Without it being available in the UK to buy and drive probably due to its sheer size which may be incompatible with our smaller roads, it’s hard to make a complete assessment of whether it could appeal to drivers here. Marketed as a truck for all purposes and travelling the distance, it’s clear that Musk is trying to re-define the classic American truck that has become symbolic with roads on the other side of the Atlantic, but it’s hard to imagine it becoming a staple vehicle in the UK and Europe.
Tesla has said it will be offering a number of different versions of the Cybertruck including a single motor rear-wheel drive and a triple motor all wheel drive. As this distinctive vehicle starts to gain more traction in the UK, we may just see more of a push from Musk for this EV truck to reach a wider audience.
James May, offering a mixed review of the vehicle on his YouTube channel, ended the video by saying despite its faults, he thought it was, “actually very ballsy” and was glad it exists. Although its design feels sci-fi-esque and more akin to roaming on a different planet, you have to admire the scope and ambition behind Musk’s attempts to bring life back into the classic American truck by re-defining it in its entirety.
Feeling inspired and want to expand your driving skills? Why not get yourself behind the wheel of a Truck, or sign up for an Off-Roading Experience!
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