Driving Tesla Cybertruck: Everything You Need to Know!

()
Driving Tesla Cybertruck: Everything You Need to Know!

The Numbers/Specs (00:00:00)

  • The Tesla Cybertruck is a near final prototype that's reflective of the customer delivery model.
  • There are three Cybertruck configurations: triple motor, dual motor, and single motor rear-wheel drive.
  • The triple motor Cybertruck features:
  • The estimated pricing starts at about $100,000 for the triple motor, $75,000-$85,000 for the dual motor.
  • The expected max range is approximately 340 miles.
  • The Cybertruck is about 5% smaller in every dimension than the original prototype.
  • Towing capacity and bed capacity numbers are provided.
  • Size comparisons with the F-150 Lightning indicate the Cybertruck is slightly smaller.

Differences vs the Original Cybertruck (00:03:42) & Removable Aerocap Wheel (00:04:30)

  • Several aspects of the Cybertruck have changed from the original, including a 5% reduction in size.
  • Key features:
  • The Cybertruck has side view mirrors that are legally required but are designed to be removable.
  • Blind spot monitoring lights and side-mounted cameras counter the need for mirrors.
  • The premium tire comes with a removable aerodynamic cap that improves range.
  • The wheel has a 20-inch rim and the aerodynamic cap consists of two pieces designed to align with tire patterns.

Pointy Stainless Steel/Build Quality (00:06:12)

  • The Cybertruck features a unique stainless steel design with no curves.
  • There are sharp corners on the truck which may be a safety concern.
  • The build quality varies, with some Cybertrucks exhibiting different levels of panel gaps and precision.
  • Although the prototype inspected appeared to have good build quality, there may be inconsistencies across the production models.
  • The use of stainless steel necessitates complex stamping processes that may impact the uniformity of the panels.

Powered truck Bed and Tonneau Cover (00:08:12)

  • The Cybertruck has a dampened but manual tailgate and a powered tonneau cover that can support up to 300 pounds.
  • The tonneau cover provides no rear visibility when closed, and the bed now includes a full lining recommended by construction workers.
  • Bed length is approximately 66 inches, similar to a Ford F-150 Lightning, and a sub trunk with a drain plug is included.
  • Additional features include bed lighting, latch points for tying down cargo but no spare tire included (it is available for purchase).
  • Power ports in the trunk include two 120 volts and one 240 volt, capable of providing power to other EVs or potentially a house with the proper inverter.
  • Other details are a bottle cap opener and mounting points for cables.

Doors with no handles (00:13:00)

  • Cybertruck doors open via an indented button and present frameless auto-closing windows; rear doors open at a full 90-degree angle.
  • Concerns were raised about the functionality of the button in cold or icy conditions; Tesla claims it can handle up to an inch of ice.
  • The lack of door handles could result in fingerprints on the stainless steel exterior as users attempt to open the door.

The Nose/Frunk (00:14:53)

  • The front features a solid plastic bumper with two tow hitch rigs and a front camera, a first for Tesla.
  • The frunk is automatically opening, relatively shallow, and can fit about two carry-on suitcases.
  • Notably, there is an absence of Tesla logos on the truck, which is instead marked with 'Cybertruck' branding.

Interior Layout (00:17:34)

  • The Tesla Cybertruck interior is noted for its straight angles and a glass canopy extending from the front to the back.
  • Despite a more normal car-like appearance, there's a large piece of glass across the front, the biggest in the automotive industry.
  • Magnetic connectors for removable sunshades and ample door storage are present.
  • The middle console includes window controls, an emergency door latch, wireless chargers, two cup holders, and a storage space with a 120-volt outlet and a USB-C port.
  • The cabin has a minimal Tesla look, substantial storage space, and ambient lighting with customizable colors.
  • Visibility over the nose of the car is challenging, and there's no camera option for the rearview mirror; instead, the camera feed is displayed on the screen.
  • The Cybertruck lacks a physical hazards button, using a touch-sensitive control instead, and gear selections are located above the driver’s head.

The Back Seat Trick (00:22:16) and Vehicle Controls + Steering Wheel (00:23:54)

  • The backseat doors open 90 degrees, providing good rear legroom and space for passengers' feet under the seats.
  • The backseat offers additional storage by lifting the seats and accessing underneath compartments.
  • A 9.5-inch screen for backseat passengers can control seat adjustments, and the seats are heated on the left and right but not in the middle.
  • The 18.5-inch touchscreen in the driver's area is the largest in a Tesla and the new steering wheel features haptic buttons.
  • The new software interface, designed with a Cybertruck theme, maintains the typical Tesla layout with added vehicle controls and real-time adjustments.
  • The Cybertruck offers a variety of vehicle controls like adjustable ride height featuring 12 inches of suspension travel, lights, and window controls that mirror actual actions in real time.
  • The software also includes media controls, navigation, a range indicator, heated steering wheel controls, and heated and cooled front seats.
  • Dynamics settings are adjustable, with special modes for acceleration (comfort, standard, and beast) and ride and handling.

The Insane Steering (00:28:56)

  • Tesla Cybertruck features a steer-by-wire system.
  • No steering weight or feel adjustments; it maintains a constant ratio.
  • Rear axle steering allows up to 10 degrees turn in opposite direction to front wheels under 40 mph, effectively shortening the wheelbase.
  • At speeds above 40 mph, rear wheels steer a few degrees in the same direction as the front wheels, extending the wheelbase feel.
  • Steering radius is very tight, with less than a 180-degree turn needed for maximum steering input.

Driving the Cybertruck (00:30:57)

  • The Cybertruck drives like a typical Tesla with instant throttle response.
  • Visibility is good, but with a notably shorter hood, its proportions differ from traditional trucks.
  • Laminated windows are noise insulating and shatterproof.
  • Steering remains unchanged in feel, requiring driver adjustment to its <180-degree turn ratio.
  • The cabin is spacious with a large six-foot bed, yet has the smallest front compared to similar trucks.
  • Vast windshield distance and inability to see the front of the car are unique aspects to get accustomed to.
  • Button blinkers are physical, and new road conditions allow for testing the truck’s power and suspension.
  • Cybertruck features a vast amount of glass and the world's largest windshield.
  • Requires muscle memory adjustment as rear visibility is through camera feed on the screen when the tonneau cover is closed.

World’s Largest Windshield Wiper (00:35:43)

  • Window wiper is extremely large and may face challenges with ice or snow.
  • It covers a significant portion of the windshield but not entirely.

800V System (00:36:17)

  • Compatible with Tesla superchargers and has full autopilot functionalities.
  • Built with an 800 volt architecture, allowing faster charging at V4 superchargers and reduced wire weight due to increased efficiency.
  • A 48 volt low voltage system is used, which is quadruple the typical car voltage, appearing to make the truck future proof.
  • Noticeable road noise and a slight steering feel exist despite Tesla's typically numb steering.

Range Extender (00:37:18)

  • All Cybertrucks have a standard 123 kWh battery.
  • An optional add-on battery in the bed can add 120 miles of range, resulting in up to 450 mile range trucks suitable for long hauls and towing despite increased weight.

Overwhelmed by Endless Content?