The Tesla Cybertruck is finally hitting the road, though production is just beginning and only a few units are being shipped. Tesla expects production to ramp up significantly over the coming year. Currently, if you order the all-wheel drive or “Cyberbeast” version, you can expect delivery in 2024.
But should you consider getting one? While the electric truck market isn’t overflowing, there are other options available. With the Cybertruck now reaching customers, it’s a good time to evaluate the current electric truck landscape and see how the Cybertruck stacks up against its competitors. We’ll focus only on trucks that are currently available for purchase.
Starting with the Cybertruck, it’s clear that Tesla aimed for a distinctive look. Its metallic exterior, angular design, and sharp corners make it stand out; you’ll likely either love it or hate it. Inside, the truck is less unique, resembling other Tesla vehicles with features like a large infotainment display used to control various functions such as climate and speed. Depending on the model, the Cybertruck has a range of 250 to 340 miles and can tow up to 11,000 pounds. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds for the base model, and as fast as 2.6 seconds for the “Cyberbeast” model. The truck also features a six-foot-long covered bed that is 51 inches wide.
Pricing for the Cybertruck starts at $60,990 for the rear-wheel drive model, which won’t ship until 2025. The all-wheel drive model begins at $79,990, and the Cyberbeast version starts at $99,990.
Now, let’s look at the competitors.
The Ford F-150 Lightning resembles a conventional F-150 and might go unnoticed without its “Lightning” badge. Many might prefer this familiar design over the Cybertruck’s bold look. The F-150 Lightning offers a range between 240 and 320 miles, slightly less than the Cybertruck. It can accelerate to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds and tow up to 10,000 pounds, though this reduces its range. The truck bed measures about 67 inches long and 50.6 inches wide. The entry-level model starts at $49,995, while the high-end Platinum model starts at $91,995.
The Hummer EV Pickup has a more muscular and bulky design than the F-150 Lightning. It boasts impressive performance, achieving 0 to 60 mph in just three seconds. It is available in two trims: the Hummer EV2X with a 311-mile range and the EV3X with a 381-mile range. The truck can tow up to 8,500 pounds and has a 5-foot bed. However, it comes with a hefty price tag, starting at $96,550 for the base model.
Lastly, we have the Rivian R1T, the first model from a new company that has quickly gained a large following. While it doesn’t look as radical as the Cybertruck, it has unique features like oval-shaped headlights with a front light bar. The interior is minimalistic but truck-like. The Rivian R1T comes standard with all-wheel drive, either as a dual-motor or a quad-motor system. Its range varies from 270 miles to 410 miles, making it the highest-range truck on this list. It can accelerate to 60 mph in three seconds and can tow up to 11,000 pounds. The Rivian R1T starts at $73,000 and goes up to $94,000 for the quad-motor version with a large battery.
While there aren’t many electric trucks on the market, these options are solid. If range is your top priority, go for the Rivian R1T. For quick acceleration, the Cybertruck stands out. If affordability is key, the F-150 Lightning is your best bet.