Tesla has introduced a new, budget-friendly version of the Cybertruck in the United States, making waves with a significant $10,000 price cut. The Cybertruck Long Range is now priced at $69,990, offering a more affordable entry point into Tesla’s electric pickup world. However, this price drop comes with several notable sacrifices in features and performance. Let’s break it down.
Cheaper Price, Fewer Features: What’s Different?
While the new Cybertruck Long Range is certainly cheaper, it’s important to understand what you're losing for that $10,000 saving. Here are the key changes:
Reduced Towing Capacity: The Cybertruck Long Range can tow up to 7,500 lbs, down from the 11,000 lbs of the higher-end versions. This could be a dealbreaker for those looking to haul larger loads.
Slower Performance: The Long Range takes 6.2 seconds to reach 60 mph, whereas the All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Cybertruck does it in 4.1 seconds, with the Cyberbeast version offering the fastest acceleration at 2.6 seconds.
Missing Suspension Features: The adaptive air suspension has been replaced by an adaptive coil spring setup. This reduces the overall ride quality and adjustability, which is a significant downgrade for those accustomed to the premium features in Tesla's higher models.
Driving Range: How Far Can You Go on a Single Charge?
One of the standout features of the Cybertruck Long Range is its impressive driving range. With a full charge, it offers:
Range without Tonneau Cover: The estimated range is 350 miles.
Range with Optional Tonneau Cover: If you choose the $750 soft tonneau cover, the range increases to 362 miles. This makes it more competitive with other electric pickups on the market.
While it may not be as high as the other variants, this range is still more than sufficient for everyday driving and long trips.
Interior Features: Less Luxury, Still Practical
To further reduce costs, Tesla has made several interior changes in the Long Range version:
Seating: The base Cybertruck now comes with cloth seats, a far cry from the premium materials used in higher trims.
Audio System: The audio setup is a 7-speaker system, compared to the 15-speaker setup in the more expensive versions. Active noise cancellation is also absent.
Front Seats: While still heated, the front seats in the Long Range version are not ventilated, unlike the more expensive models.
What’s Missing? Key Features Not Included in the Base Model
While the new Cybertruck Long Range has several strong points, it also lacks features that could be dealbreakers for some buyers. Here's a quick look at what’s not included:
Adaptive Air Suspension: As mentioned earlier, the air suspension is replaced by coil springs, which can make the ride less smooth and less adjustable.
Power Outlets: The base model doesn't come with household outlets, which are present in the other trims. This means you’ll have to rely on a mobile charger for electrical power.
Rear Screen: The rear screen that was present in other versions is also missing in the Long Range version.
Motorized Bed Cover: The base version comes with a soft tonneau cover, but it’s not motorized, unlike the higher trims.
Pricing Breakdown and Tax Incentives
At a starting price of $69,990, the Cybertruck Long Range is an appealing option for those looking to own a Tesla without breaking the bank. Here’s a quick pricing breakdown:
-
Base Price: $69,990
-
Destination Fee: $1,995
-
Optional Soft Tonneau Cover: $750
-
Total Price (before tax credits): $72,235
If you qualify for federal tax credits, you could save up to $7,500, bringing the price down to $64,735.
Is the Tesla Cybertruck Long Range Worth It?
The entry-level Cybertruck Long Range is a solid offering at a more affordable price. It provides excellent range, a robust electric motor, and all the benefits of Tesla's ecosystem. However, the trade-off comes in the form of fewer luxury features and performance capabilities.