Tesla’s radical electric ute seen getting camo applied as testing program continues, despite delays
New images of engineers prepping what appears to be a pre-production version of the 2023 Tesla Cybertruck have emerged online, confirming testing and development is continuing on the US brand’s radical electric pick-up truck.
Similar to images of the Cybertruck leaked a few weeks ago, the latest photos via CybertruckTalk.com show camo being applied to the exterior and interior of the high-tech electric dual-cab for what is turning out to be an extended testing regime on public and private roads.
Image credit: CybertruckTalk.com forum
Tesla boss Elon Musk recently confirmed that production of the Cybertruck would be delayed until at least 2023, meaning any possible Australian deliveries are now unlikely until at least mid-decade.
However, recent reports suggest Tesla will reveal not only the production version of the Cybertruck during a livestream event in March, but also a second, smaller ute alongside it.
The junior Tesla pick-up is said to be around 20 per cent smaller than the F-150-sized Cybertruck, handing the EV brand a competitor for top-selling utes such as the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux.
Image credit: CybertruckTalk.com forum
Aussie demand for the Cybertruck is strong, and based on pre-order figures Australia could be one of its biggest markets outside of the Americas.
But whether that speeds up deliveries to Australia remains to be seen.
The Tesla Cybertruck was first revealed in late 2019, and while the US electric car-maker has still not confirmed final specification for the big, blocky truck, prices currently start at $US39,900 ($A53,600).
While only one exterior colour is expected to be offered – steel grey, thanks to the ‘bulletproof’ Armormax steel body panels – it’s not clear whether production models will get the 200kWh lithium-ion battery pack from the original vehicle with a claimed 800km-plus range.
Image credit: CybertruckTalk.com forum
Single-, double- and triple-motor powertrains are expected, and the most powerful Tesla utes should be good for a 0-100km/h sprint of around three seconds flat and a top speed of over 200km/h.
The instant high-torque nature of electric motors provides impressive hauling capabilities, with a vehicle payload of 1588kg and towing capacities between 3402kg and 6350kg.
The Cybertruck will be manufactured in the US at Tesla’s new factory in Austin, Texas, which is also where the Model Y mid-size SUV is built.
Image credit: CybertruckTalk.com forum
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Keyword: Tesla Cybertruck caught testing again