When it was introduced, the design language employed with the Tesla Cybertruck did not elicit overwhelming approvals. Elon Musk said the Cybertruck looks futuristic and the engineering focus is on the performance of the electric vehicle. The automaker said the all-electric pickup truck is more of durability than aesthetics.
Recently, Tesla design chief Franz von Holzhausen talked with the media and touched on the Cybertruck design. The executive said the electric truck was developed with durability in mind, drawing attention to the fact that trucks are subjected to frequent use and abuse.
That is why the Cybertruck's exterior is made of stainless steel and since the material is not readily malleable, Von Holzhausen made use of a design approach that resulted in the truck's inimitable appearance. Yet one thing is clear - the Cybertruck shell is strong and durable.
Von Holzhausen said that while rival trucks would easily get dents and scrubs, the Cybertruck is virtually immune from scratches.
He added that the closest inspiration to the Cybertruck design is that of a military plane, which explains the robust engineering and the greater emphasis on function and durability. Teslarati said the revelation from Von Holzhausen makes sense as it's easy to see that the Cybertruck has a striking resemblance with the Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk.
The stealth combat plane was in use for 25 years and earned distinction, not for its sexy look but its efficiency.
For the most part, the design philosophy behind the Cybertruck is the anticipation of the all-electric operating in the roughest of environment. As Musk has indicated, the truck is largely about muscle and function, and the decision to make it military-grade is now better understood.
Meanwhile, it appeared that it still a long wait before users get to actually drive the modern pickup. The mass production is not starting next year, which aligns with the earlier hints from Musk that the Cybertruck will be assembled in Gigafactory Austin that is yet to be completed.
Electrek reported that an email sent out by Tesla indicated that production of the EV will start in late 2022. The automaker estimated that deliveries can only be made in the first months of 2023.
In admitting that the Cybertruck is not rolling out soon, Tesla made an offer on the same correspondence that while waiting, customers can experience EV ownership by agreeing to lease a Tesla vehicle. The offer was extended to those who previously made reservations for the upcoming pickup truck.
If Tesla is to be believed, up to 650,000 units have been reserved even before the Cybertruck is assembled. And the automaker is looking to lure a big chunk of these people to get a fix of the Tesla experience while waiting for the electrified pickup.
