Tesla Cybertruck: Initial Impressions Suggest a Toy or Hasty Prototype, Rather Than a Real Truck
The Tesla Cybertruck, a revolutionary electric vehicle, has been met with both enthusiasm and criticism since its debut. Owners and renters have reported a range of issues, from build quality concerns to ride and visibility problems, painting a picture of early production challenges and uncertain user experiences.
One of the most frequently mentioned issues is the vehicle's build quality. Some owners have complained about poor-fitting exterior panels and panel gaps, leading some to reject their vehicles at delivery. Persistent ride quality annoyances, such as squeaks and rattles, have also been a source of frustration, with Tesla service centres struggling to diagnose and fix these issues even after extended repairs.
Visibility and wiper problems have also been reported, with recalls related to windshield wiper malfunctions and rearview camera malfunctions affecting the driver’s ability to see clearly. Owners have also pointed out that the touchscreen warning indicators are too small to notice, impacting safety feedback.
The interior comfort of the Cybertruck has also been a point of contention. Some users describe the vehicle as feeling "cheap" and "fragile," with cost-cutting measures evident in materials and design that do not meet expectations for a premium or functional truck. These factors can significantly influence overall satisfaction.
Despite these challenges, many Cybertruck owners argue that the stiff ride is a trade-off for its high performance and handling, comparing it to sports cars rather than other trucks. However, the Cybertruck's suspension is stiffer than a traditional truck and can be jarring on uneven roads.
The single wiper design of the Cybertruck does not work effectively, leaving the windshield prone to dirt and poor visibility during rain, dust, or bug encounters. The lack of a traditional rearview mirror is defended by some owners as a feature, as the central screen camera provides a wider and clearer view.
The headlights of the Cybertruck are also a source of concern, being too dim and mounted too low, resulting in poor visibility at night. The glare from the sun is a significant issue with the Cybertruck, making it distracting and potentially dangerous.
On the positive side, many Cybertruck owners believe the vehicle is a "tech toy," not a traditional work truck, and bought it for its unique features, performance, and aesthetics. They argue that the many cameras and advanced driver-assistance systems are a technological advantage over other vehicles.
However, the overall build and quality of the Cybertruck feel cheap and fragile to some users, with numerous cost-cutting measures apparent in materials, features, and design decisions. This has led to a mixed to negative reception among owners, with some renters expressing disappointment after a 24-hour rental.
Tesla is working to remedy these issues, but service can be problematic, with some owners reporting drastic measures such as complete battery pack replacements for minor problems. As the Cybertruck continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how these challenges will be addressed and whether the vehicle can live up to its promise of being a revolutionary electric truck.
References:
- Electrek
- The Verge
- CNET
- Car and Driver
- Teslarati
- The Cybertruck's build quality, including concerns about exterior panel gaps and poor fitment, has led some owners to return their vehicles upon delivery.
- The visibility problems in the Cybertruck, such as windshield wiper malfunctions and rearview camera malfunctions, affect the driver's ability to see clearly, posing potential safety risks.
- The interior comfort of the Cybertruck is another area of contention, with some users describing it as feeling cheap and fragile, with cost-cutting measures apparent in materials and design.
- Despite the troubling issues, many Cybertruck owners argue that the vehicle's unique features, performance, and aesthetics make it more of a tech toy than a traditional work truck, highlighting the many cameras and advanced driver-assistance systems as technological advantages over other vehicles.
