If you tuned in Thursday for Elon Musk’s unveiling of the all-electric Tesla Cybertruck, you were treated to quite the surprise. Nestled between boos and cheers as the Cybertruck rolled on stage was Musk’s staunch confidence. A violent display of sledgehammers and metal balls followed shortly thereafter – take a look below.
What makes the Cybertruck different?
“Exoskeleton”
Aside from the unique angular shape (a stark juxtaposition to the smoothly rounded corners of other Tesla models), most notable was the “exoskeleton” body. The ultra-hard, cold-rolled stainless steel alloy exoskeleton is the same material used in the SpaceX rockets. Smashes from a sledgehammer couldn’t make a mark, even though the same hammer badly damaged the door of a conventional truck. The windows are transparent metal, which didn’t quite stand up when they pitched a metal ball at the driver’s side. “It didn’t go through…but room for improvement,” Musk added.
Adaptive Air Suspension
The Cybertruck also has adaptive air suspension for up to a 16-inch clearance, so a driver can maintain low clearance for efficient highway driving and raise the truck for rugged off-roading. Additionally, the built-in pneumatic system means there’s an onboard air compressor.
Towing Capacity
With 14,000 pounds of towing capacity, the Cybertruck can tow almost twice as much as the leading Ford F-150. They went on to test the Cybertruck’s power by attaching it rear-to-rear with an F-150. As both trucks accelerated in opposite directions, the Cybertruck’s power was unmatched as it sped up the hill with the fighting F-150 in tow.
Speed
From 0-60 mph in 2.9 seconds, the Cybertruck defeated a Porche 911 in a drag race. “This is not CGI!” Musk proclaimed to a crowd of approving fans.
Range and Price
The truck will come in three ranges: 250 miles, 300 miles, and an impressive 500 miles per battery charge. Most surprising of all, the Cybertruck will start at $39,900, making it competitive with leading established gas-powered trucks like the Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado.
Finally, they drove an electric ATV up the built-in ramp into the 100 cubic-foot bed and plugged it in to charge.
Musk signed off by reminding everyone that they can order their Cybertruck today.
