by Changes in Tesla Cybertruck Lineup
Tesla has removed from sale the most affordable version of its Cybertruck pickup with rear-wheel drive, which cost $69,990. This model, introduced in April, offered the longest range—350 miles—but had limited features compared to other options.
Details of the Discontinued Model
Reasons for Discontinuation
Likely, low demand forced Tesla to cancel this version. Customers probably preferred all-wheel drive variants, which offer better performance despite the higher price. Now the cheapest model in the lineup is the all-wheel drive Cybertruck at $79,990, and the top model is the Cyberbeast at $114,990.
Comparison with Other Versions
The rear-wheel drive model had a reduced payload capacity—2,006 pounds compared to 2,500 pounds in the all-wheel drive version—as well as a reduced towing capacity of 7,500 pounds. These factors likely influenced buyers’ decisions to choose more expensive but more functional options.
Implications for Buyers
Those who planned to buy the rear-wheel drive version must now look for it on the used market or switch to the all-wheel drive model, which costs $10,000 more. This change highlights Tesla’s tendency to quickly adapt its product line to market demand, sometimes leaving customers with limited options.
The initial price of the Cybertruck in 2019 was only $39,900, which is significantly lower than current offerings, indicating rising costs and possibly a change in the company’s product positioning strategy. The quick discontinuation of the base model may also indicate that Tesla is focusing on more profitable variants, avoiding competitive battles in the lower price segment.
