Tesla Axes Most Affordable Cybertruck Option After Just 5 Months Online

Tesla Scraps Most Affordable Cybertruck Option After Five Months In a move that has left electric vehicle enthusiasts scratching their heads, Tesla has removed the rear-wheel drive (RWD) trim of its Cybertruck from online sales after just five months. The Long Range model, which was the most affordable option with a starting price of $69,990, is no longer available for purchase through Tesla's website. According to sources, the RWD version of the Cybertruck was launched in April at a higher price point than initially expected, with a starting price of $69,990. However, this model came with several compromises, including reduced towing power, lower payload capacity, and only one motor. Additionally, features such as the power tonneau cover, adaptive suspension, a touchscreen for the back row, rear lightbar, and outlets in the truck bed were also removed. Tesla did not provide an official explanation for the removal of the RWD option from its website. However, industry insiders suggest that low Cybertruck sales overall may have contributed to this decision. "We're seeing a trend where automakers are focusing on higher-end models with more advanced features," said Dan Ives, managing director at Wedbush Securities. "Tesla is no exception. They're trying to drive revenue and profitability, and the RWD model just wasn't moving the needle." The removal of the Long Range option comes as the federal tax credit for EV buyers in the US is set to expire at the end of the month. This development may make the purchase of a Cybertruck even less appealing to budget-conscious consumers. Background on the Cybertruck: The Cybertruck was unveiled by Tesla CEO Elon Musk in November 2019, with promises of exceptional performance and range. However, the vehicle's futuristic design and high price point have raised eyebrows among some critics. The Long Range model, which was initially priced at $59,990, was expected to be a more affordable option for consumers. Current Status: The removal of the RWD trim from online sales has left only two options available: the all-wheel drive (AWD) model starting at $79,990 and the Cyberbeast trim, which begins at $114,990. Tesla has not commented on whether it plans to reintroduce the Long Range option in the future. As the electric vehicle market continues to evolve, one thing is clear: consumers will need to be prepared for a more expensive ride if they want to get behind the wheel of a Cybertruck. *Reporting by Engadget.*