Tesla Cancels Most Affordable Cybertruck Option After Shocking 5-Month Run

Tesla Scraps Most Affordable Cybertruck Option After Five Months In a move that has left industry insiders scratching their heads, Tesla has quietly removed the Long Range version of its Cybertruck from online sales just five months after its launch. The rear-wheel drive (RWD) trim was the most affordable option in the lineup, starting at $69,990. According to sources, the RWD model was discontinued without explanation from Tesla. However, industry analysts point to low sales numbers as a possible reason for the move. "The Cybertruck has been struggling to gain traction with consumers," said Dan Ives, an analyst with Wedbush Securities. "Removing the most affordable option may be an attempt by Tesla to simplify its lineup and focus on more profitable models." The Long Range version of the Cybertruck was launched in April at a price point $10,000 higher than initially expected. In addition to the elevated cost, this trim level came with several feature reductions, including the power tonneau cover, adaptive suspension, and rear lightbar. The RWD model also had lower towing capacity and payload capabilities compared to other Cybertruck trims. The removal of the Long Range option comes as the federal tax credit for electric vehicle buyers in the US is set to expire at the end of the month. This could further reduce demand for the Cybertruck, which was already struggling to compete with established players in the market. Tesla has not commented on the reasons behind the discontinuation of the RWD model. However, industry insiders speculate that the company may be shifting its focus towards more profitable trims, such as the all-wheel drive (AWD) and Cyberbeast models. The AWD trim starts at $79,990, while the Cyberbeast is priced at a minimum of $114,990. These higher-end options come with additional features and capabilities that may appeal to buyers looking for more advanced technology and performance. As Tesla continues to navigate the electric vehicle market, the removal of the Long Range Cybertruck option raises questions about the company's strategy and priorities. With the expiration of the federal tax credit looming, it remains to be seen how this move will impact sales and demand for the Cybertruck in the coming months. In a statement, a Tesla spokesperson said: "We are constantly evaluating our product lineup and making adjustments as needed to meet changing market conditions and customer preferences." *Reporting by Engadget.*