The Tesla Cybertruck could be approaching the end of its production run as the company prepares to shift its focus toward the Cybercab. Production of the electric pickup is expected to wind down, potentially bringing an early end to one of Tesla’s most controversial vehicles less than two years after customer deliveries began.
Four Years of Delays Before Cybertruck Production
First introduced as a concept in November 2019, the Tesla Cybertruck took nearly four years to reach production. The pickup was originally expected to enter production in 2021, but multiple delays pushed back its launch. Its base prices also increased steadily during that period.
Since its introduction, Tesla’s first pickup has faced considerable criticism, ranging from its unconventional polygonal design to criticism surrounding the company’s leadership. Despite several technological innovations, the Cybertruck has struggled to overcome those challenges.
Sales have remained slow, with fewer than 75,000 units built so far. That figure falls well short of the earlier estimates of annual production between 250,000 and 500,000 vehicles.
Tesla Begins Preparing to Wind Down Cybertruck Production
Two years after customers began receiving their Cybertrucks, Tesla appears to be preparing to scale back production of the pickup to make room for more Cybercabs.
The development follows the cancellation of Cybertruck production and sales in Australia, adding to questions surrounding the vehicle’s future.
The possibility of an eventual production shutdown has also been reinforced by comments from the Cybertruck’s lead engineer, who referred to the vehicle in the past tense.
“Cybertruck was an incredible technology development platform and lives on through Cybercab. Thanks to everyone who contributed to making the future looking like the future,” he said in a tweet.
The Cybertruck has not been officially discontinued. However, 2027 or 2028 could become the final model year for what has become one of America’s most controversial pickups.
Tesla Shifts Focus to Cybercab and Roadster
Tesla’s Gigafactory in Texas will eventually become the production home of the Cybercab. Deliveries of the vehicle are expected to begin by the end of the year.
Meanwhile, the recently unveiled and revamped Tesla Roadster is expected to enter production in 2028. Nearly a decade has passed since the model was first presented, making its planned production another major milestone for the company.
The developments come as Tesla shares have fallen 15% following the elections. At the same time, the Tesla Semi is finally reaching its first customers after countless delays.
Model S and Model X Discontinued as Optimus Expands
The potential end of Cybertruck production follows another major change in Tesla’s vehicle lineup. Earlier this year, the company announced the discontinuation of the Model S and Model X, with the final vehicles rolling off the production line in May.
The move was intended to make room for Tesla’s new venture into humanoid robots, known as Optimus.
Although Tesla’s automotive business is not necessarily on shaky ground, its expanding focus on robotics has the potential to overshadow the company’s carmaking operations, a possibility that has also been acknowledged by its CEO.
