Cybertruck may come Down Under in smaller EU form
Tesla’s Cybertruck is designed mainly for North America, but it could be produced in smaller European Union compliant form for other markets like Australia and New Zealand.
That’s according to Tesla chief executive Elon Musk who told Auto News’ Daily Drive the Cybertruck doesn’t currently comply with EU regulations.
“We are fundamentally making this truck as a North American ass-kicker,” he says.
But Musk reckons a smaller EU compliant version could be produced after the Cybertruck is scheduled to roll out in late 2021, reported in EVs and Beyond to be built in Austin, Texas.
The Cybertruck generated plenty of comment after it was revealed in November last year, including Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) then chief executive James Goodwin wondering if the Cybertruck would meet Australian and New Zealand road safety standards.
Musk recently added that no public consultation was involved in designing the Cybertruck, which is geared for towing, off-roading, camping and other ute functions, even carrying its own electric quad bike.
The Cybertruck is also likely to appeal to tradies as power tools can be run off it.
It’s expected to have more than 800km range, tow about 6300kgs, carry a 1600kg payload and accelerate from 0 to 96km/h in under 2.9 seconds.
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We will have little say in what changes sound likely re size of Cybertruck for New Zealand and other non-American markets. However, if the size is reduced and the consequential delay is needed there will be a rethink on purchase of the Cybertruck as expected with pre-order deposits already paid.
Confirmation of this possible/prop able change needs to be received soon so alternative vehicle replacement plans can be made.
A six seat Cybertruck is what was expected. A reduced sized Cybertruck changes the ball game significantly.