The wait time for the cheapest model of the Tesla Cybertruck has increased to over a month, sparking curiosity about its commercial fate. The recent spike in demand is attributed to the expiration of the $7,500 federal EV tax credit on September 30, which makes the base model more attractive. As the deadline approaches, Tesla’s website promotes the tax credit and highlights the vehicle’s self-driving features, fueling the buying frenzy.
The Cybertruck has been a commercial disaster since its launch in 2019, with production delays and poor sales. Despite efforts from Elon Musk to revive interest, the reality has been brutal, with over 50% decline in sales compared to the same period last year. The used car market has also been unforgiving, with resale values crashing by over 30%.
The sudden surge in demand for the cheapest model suggests a genuine turnaround or a temporary sugar rush fueled by the looming government deadline. As the tax credit expires on October 1, Tesla will face its true test and must demonstrate the Cybertruck’s value without the incentive.
While this last-minute rush might be a chance to revive momentum, it’s unlikely to sustain itself once the government incentives are gone. The ongoing sales data paints a picture of a vehicle that has consistently under-delivered on its own hype. Only time will tell if Tesla can overcome the challenges and make the Cybertruck a viable option for customers.
Source: https://gizmodo.com/teslas-cybertruck-is-suddenly-sold-out-sort-of-2000641210