Most Affordable Cybertruck Yet Provides 350 Miles, But It Doesn't Come With the Expected $40K Price Tag | Carscoops

      The eagerly anticipated single-motor base Cybertruck has been introduced, but it's slower, has a reduced towing capability, and features downgraded cloth seats and 18-inch wheels.

      Tesla has unveiled an entry-level Cybertruck Long Range priced at $69,990, excluding destination fees.

      The single-motor, rear-wheel drive Long Range model is $10,000 cheaper than the all-wheel drive version and offers an improved range of up to 37 miles.

      However, its downsides include a 0-60 mph time of 6.2 seconds, a lower tow rating, and significantly less standard equipment.

      After nearly 18 months since the Cybertruck's official sale began in December 2023, Tesla has finally introduced a more affordable entry-level variant. Yet, the reduced specifications of the Cybertruck Long Range raise questions about whether it's worth considering.

      Not Quite a Bargain, But Better Than Nothing

      A basic single-motor, rear-wheel drive Cybertruck was always in the plans. Although the Long Range's starting price of $69,990, plus $2,245 in destination and order fees (not including the $7,500 tax credit), falls far short of the $39,990 that Elon Musk had indicated back in 2019, it still reflects a $10,000 savings compared to the current dual-motor all-wheel drive model. It's also $30,000 less than the exorbitantly priced Cyberbeast.

      There are additional positives beyond just the price. By eliminating the front motor and driveshafts, Tesla has reduced the curb weight (though the exact figure isn’t provided), allowing the Long Range to achieve an EPA-rated driving range of 350 miles (563 km). This figure applies to a model without a tonneau cover – adding the optional $750 soft tonneau increases the electric range to 362 miles (583 km), surpassing the all-wheel drive's claimed 325 miles (523 km).

      The Drawback: Significant Equipment Reductions

      However, things take a downturn when it comes to the Long Range's ability to attract buyers. To lower the price, Tesla has stripped down the Cybertruck so significantly that you'll be reminded of your choice every time you enter.

      The vegan leather seats have been replaced with basic cloth alternatives that remain heated but lack ventilation, and the vehicle is fitted with small 18-inch wheels unless you opt for the additional cost of the 20-inch wheels that come standard on the all-wheel drive variant. This $3,500 expense heavily impacts the perceived savings. Also, the height-adjustable air suspension has been swapped for simpler steel springs, and the audio system has had its speaker count reduced to seven.

      Slower and Less Capable

      Even if you're a driver who hardly accelerates hard enough to notice the increase in the 0-60 mph time from 4.1 seconds to 6.2 seconds, you will likely care about the dramatically lower towing capacity. While the all-wheel drive Cybertrucks can tow up to 11,000 lbs (4,990 kg), the Long Range is limited to just 7,500 lbs (3,402 kg), with an additional 265 lb (120 kg) reduction in payload capacity to consider.

      With the elimination of the bed's electrical outlets and the necessity to pay extra for a soft tonneau while the all-wheel drive variant includes a retractable one as standard, the Long Range's appeal indeed diminishes. Tesla asserts that the Long Range remains competitive with mid-tier Ford F-150 Lightnings, which may have slightly quicker acceleration but don't offer the same range. What are your thoughts? Was the wait for the entry-level Cybertruck justified?

      Cybertruck Long Range is now available – $62,490 (including Federal Tax Credit) – 362 miles of estimated range with Soft Tonneau – 6' x 4' bed – 7,500 lbs towing capacity.