Is the Cybertruck finally a bargain, or is it still too expensive for the average driver?
Tesla discontinues Model S, X, shifts focus to Optimus factory
Tesla has announced plans to end production of the Model S and Model X and shift focus to its Optimus robot factory.
- Tesla is offering a new, more affordable Cybertruck trim for a limited time.
- Prices for the new base model start at $59,990, $20,000 less than the previous starting price.
Tesla’s Cybertruck is big, bold, and expensive depending on the trim you choose.
Even before its release, this unique electric pickup truck was one of the most anticipated electric vehicles of its time. According to the car enthusiast site Torque News, nearly 1 million reservations have been made. The Cybertruck hype hasn’t translated into sales, as the Cybertruck has become one of the brand’s least popular nameplates.
The Cybertruck’s design pushed the envelope in many ways, and several features, including its high price, put it out of reach for the average American driver. Drivers now have the opportunity to purchase a Cybertruck for $20,000 less than the previous starting price of $79,990.
Tesla Cybertruck is available at a huge discount for a limited time only
Tesla’s Cybertruck all-electric pickup truck has a new starting price of $59,990, making it even cheaper than major rivals like the Rivian R1T ($72,990) and Chevrolet Silverado EV ($73,100). According to an X post by Tesla CEO Elon Musk, it will start at less than $60,000 for 10 days only.
There are some differences between the new dual-motor all-wheel drive base model and premium all-wheel drive upper trim. The more expensive Cybertruck has air suspension for better off-road performance and overall ride comfort. Tesla’s inexpensive Cybertruck uses a coil-spring suspension with active damping.
| trim | price | range | Towing capacity | 0-60mph |
| dual motor all wheel drive | $59,990 | 325 miles | 7,500 pounds | 4.1 seconds |
| premium all wheel drive | $79,990 | 325 miles | 11,000 pounds | 4.1 seconds |
| cyber beast | $99,990 | 320 miles | 11,000 pounds | 2.6 seconds |
Upper trims also feature upscale upholstery and a better audio system than the new base model. Another big difference is that the premium all-wheel drive model has a towing capacity of 11,000 pounds, while the more affordable model only has a towing capacity of 7,500 pounds.
Other than towing capacity, the most affordable Cybertruck and its premium trims have virtually identical performance specifications. Tesla temporarily stripped the Cybertruck of features to offer a budget model and make EVs more appealing to the average new car buyer.
Is the Cybertruck worth considering now that it’s cheaper?
The most affordable version of the Cybertruck has competitive performance specs that are appealing enough to turn some heads. The range is enough to eliminate range anxiety for some drivers, and it’s very fast for such a large truck.
There’s more to Tesla’s electric pickup than just the brand’s innovative software and infotainment features. Its exterior design is undoubtedly one of the most distinctive in the industry. Additionally, drivers can charge their trucks to 80% in about 45 minutes, according to Kelley Blue Book.
Cybertruck’s new base model offers good value for money based on average new car prices and its specs.
Who should buy a Tesla Cybertruck?
Cybertruck is perfect for drivers who are ready to regularly charge their EV in public or at home. This truck is a good choice for fans of the brand who are intrigued by the novelty of its design and exceptional performance specifications.
The Cybertruck may offer more value for its $59,990 price, but when compared to more affordable and popular EVs like the Model Y, it’s hard to justify its price. Cybertruck’s target audience is drivers who are used to owning an EV and want the practicality and power of a pickup truck.
What are the best new electric trucks for 2026?
Ford may have discontinued the F-150 Lightning, but there are still several electric trucks on the market that are solid options for drivers looking in the segment.
2026 electric pickup truck
- Tesla Cybertruck: Starting at $59,990
- Chevrolet Silverado EV: Starting at $73,100
- GMC Sierra EV: Starting at $62,400
- Hummer EV Truck: Starting at $97,200
- Rivian R1T: Starting at $72,990
Edmunds recently awarded the Rivian R1T its Top Rated Electric Truck award. “It’s incredibly fast, has razor-sharp handling, and is powered by a Max battery pack, making it the most powerful electric truck on the market today,” the car site says.
The R1T is expensive but offers amazing power and features. Now that the Cybertruck is more affordable than the R1T, drivers may choose Tesla’s model over Rivian’s EV because it’s easier to charge using Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network. After a long sales slump, the Cybertruck could be making a splash again with a new, lower starting price.
