In recent testing by Bowlus, an upscale trailer builder, it was found that Tesla’s Cybertruck may not offer the best range while towing a load. CEO Geneva Long posted the company’s test results on LinkedIn, showing that the Model X outperformed the Cybertruck in terms of real-world range while towing an EV-friendly Bowlus Volterra trailer. The Cybertruck only covered 50.3% of its 318-mile range rating while the Model X achieved 71% of its 330-mile range estimate. This indicates that, despite its impressive towing capacity, the Cybertruck’s range may not be as efficient as initially claimed.
## Variable Factors in Performance
The reasons behind the Cybertruck’s lower range while towing compared to the Model X are not explicitly stated by Bowlus. One of the factors that could be contributing is the Cybertruck’s heavier weight. Being 1,300 pounds heavier than the Model X, the Cybertruck may require more energy to tow a load, resulting in a shorter range. While the Cybertruck’s performance may not be drastically different from other electric trucks in towing tests, the discrepancy between the Cybertruck and the Model X’s range numbers is significant.
## Early Adopter Problems
Aside from the range issues revealed in the Bowlus testing, several reports have surfaced indicating early adopter problems with the Cybertruck. Some owners have reported their trucks breaking down shortly after delivery, while others have highlighted concerns about the build quality and functionality of the vehicle. These issues suggest that the Cybertruck may not be living up to the expectations set by Tesla CEO Elon Musk as a groundbreaking pickup truck.
## Expensive Toy or Revolutionary Vehicle?
Despite its unconventional design and promises of superior performance, the Cybertruck is facing criticism for its shortcomings in practicality and quality. The truck’s unique appearance, limited functionality, and high price tag have led some to view it as more of an expensive novelty item rather than a game-changing vehicle in the pickup truck market. Additionally, reports of surface rust and other build quality issues have further dampened the Cybertruck’s reputation among potential buyers.
## Mixed Reception and Resale Value
Despite the criticisms and concerns surrounding the Cybertruck, there are still instances where the vehicle commands a high value in the resale market. Some Cybertruck variants, such as the “Cyberbeast” trim, have fetched impressive auction prices, indicating that there is still a demand for the vehicle among certain buyers. However, the mixed reception and ongoing issues faced by early adopters suggest that the Cybertruck may not be living up to its hype as a revolutionary pickup truck.
In conclusion, the recent testing by Bowlus has shed light on the Cybertruck’s limitations in terms of range while towing, raising questions about its practicality and performance as a workhorse vehicle. The reported early adopter problems and criticisms surrounding the Cybertruck’s build quality and functionality further cast doubt on its status as a game-changing pickup truck. While there may still be a niche market for the Cybertruck among collectors and enthusiasts, its mainstream success and acceptance in the pickup truck market remain uncertain.