Tesla Pickup Uncovered!

Tesla Inc.’s much-anticipated electric “Cybertruck” was revealed in dramatic—and somewhat violent—fashion on Thursday night in California.

The pickup’s angular styling lives up to its science fiction hype. The truck’s wheels are pushed to the corners of the rugged metallic body, whose pyramid-like profile features a steeply sloping front and rear greenhouse. A loading ramp extends down from the 6.5-ft bed, which is covered when not in use.

The truck’s body, unveiled with no rearview mirrors, is made of the same “ultra-hard” cold-rolled stainless steel used in SpaceX’s rocket ship. Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who heads both companies, claims the material is dent- and scratch-resistant, and can even stop a 115-grain 9-mm bullet fired at a distance of 18 meters (59 ft).

During its unveiling, the truck’s sheetmetal withstood a sledgehammer demonstration. But the armored glass on the side windows cracked when metal balls were heaved at them.

Measuring 232 inches long, 80 inches wide and 75 inches tall, Tesla’s pickup is about the same size as a fullsize Ford F-150. The Cybertruck can accommodate six people in two rows of seating.

Buyers can choose from three variants. The $39,900 base model is equipped with a single motor on the rear axle. Tesla says the vehicle has a 250-mile range, 7,500-lb towing capacity and takes 6.5 seconds to go from zero to 60 mph.

The mid-level dual-motor system adds $10,000 to the sticker. Enhancements include a 300-mile range, 10,000-lb towing capacity and 0-60 mph time of under 4.5 seconds.

The range-topping triple motor model, which isn’t expected to bow until late 2022, will go for $69,900, according to Tesla. The company says the tri-motor powertrain boosts performance to 500 miles, provides a 14,000-lb towing capacity and enables 0-60 mph acceleration in under 2.9 seconds.

All versions of the truck are fitted with an adaptive air suspension that can provide as much as 16 inches of ground clearance. Off-roading capabilities include a 35° approach angle and a 28° departure angle. The trucks have a 3,500-lb payload capacity and 100 cu. ft. of storage space.

Other goodies include several electric outlets and air lines for power tools. Tesla’s controversial semi-autonomous Autopilot system also will be available. The stark interior is highlighted by a center-mounted 17-inch touchscreen.

More information is available HERE.