Back in 2019, the introduction of the Tesla Cybertruck was unveiled, targeting deliveries to commence towards the end of 2021. Despite several delays in production, it now seems that deliveries are finally set to commence in November. Perhaps we ought to view its tardiness as a mark of distinction.
According to a report by Electrek, Tesla declared that the Cybertruck has commenced pilot production during the release of its Q3 financial results. The report highlighted that upcoming deliveries were scheduled to kick off in the upcoming month. Subsequently, Tesla reaffirmed via Twitter that a delivery event is set for November 30, narrowly meeting the deadline. This represents just a slight delay from the last official timeline, where CEO Elon Musk had indicated that Cybertruck deliveries were targeted to begin by the conclusion of Q3.
Tesla aims to manufacture the Cybertruck in large quantities. Internal company documents reveal an “installed annual vehicle capacity” exceeding 125,000 vehicles for Cybertruck production. Although the production line may be configured for this capacity, it will require some time for Tesla to reach maximum output. The anticipation is for full-scale mass production to be accomplished by 2024.
This news emerges amidst a rising number of glimpses of Cybertrucks in public settings. Instances include one Cybertruck disguised to resemble a Ford F-150, along with sightings of others street-bound near Tesla’s Fremont factory.
During the company’s earnings briefing on Wednesday evening, Musk detailed upcoming strategies to escalate production to 250,000 units annually post-2024. Despite the electric pickup garnering substantial attention for Tesla lately, Musk acknowledged that substantial effort is requisite to achieve volume production and positive cash flow at an affordable price. The Tesla CEO remarked, “I want to set realistic expectations for the Cybertruck. While it is an outstanding product, financially, it will take between a year and 18 months before it makes a notable positive cash flow contribution.”
Specific details and pricing for the Cybertruck are yet to be disclosed. Nevertheless, Tesla faces a formidable challenge with potentially over a million pre-orders on the table as per reported figures from multiple sources. It remains to be seen how many of these reservations will translate into concrete sales, but even a modest conversion rate could lead to an impressive start for Cybertruck sales.
Have a tip? Inform the author at: lewin@thedrive.com
