Tesla CEO Elon Musk has hinted at the prospect of the newly launched Cybertruck being showcased in China, although challenges exist for making the electric pickup road-legal in the country.
Addressing rumors raised by X user Ray4Tesla about the Cybertruck arriving in China as a store display, Elon Musk suggested shipping prototype units to the country. However, he acknowledged the difficulty of making the Cybertruck compliant with Chinese road regulations, suggesting it may only be present in the country as a display, per Teslarati.
In response to a query from Ray about classifying the Cybertruck as a utility or recreational vehicle or an SUV in China, Musk did not respond. Others in the discussion also raised questions about the possibility of Cybertruck displays in European markets.
Getting Cybertruck road legal in China would be very difficult, but we could ship some prototypes over for display
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 14, 2024
Tesla Cybertruck Availability Outside US
The US remains the largest market for pickup trucks, and road regulations vary globally. European and Asian auto markets are predominantly focused on smaller passenger vehicles, making introducing the Cybertruck challenging. Although Tesla fans worldwide have expressed interest in the Cybertruck, extending its presence beyond North America poses complexities for the automaker.
While Tesla previously allowed reservations for the Cybertruck in China and Europe, it stopped orders in 2022, offering the option to "receive updates" instead. Unconfirmed reports in 2021 hinted at a 9,000-ton casting machine in China, sparking rumors about Cybertruck production. As of now, Cybertruck production is centered at Tesla's U.S. Gigafactory in Austin, Texas, but expanding its availability to showrooms outside North America has been a highly requested move, potentially boosting Tesla's international presence.
New Wave of Criticisms on Cybertruck Design
Amid the hype, the Tesla Cybertruck is also facing criticism for various issues. Unilad reported that a new owner reported problems with the Cybertruck's paneling and a malfunctioning right turn signal.
In a social media video, concerns about the design's sharp edges were raised as a carrot, representing a finger, was sliced when placed near the trunk hood. Online reactions express surprise at the car's approval and safety, with some dubbing it a "death trap." Defenders argue that any car can cause injury if fingers are in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Moreover, Tesla recently delivered the Cybertruck to a non-employee customer, revealing significant panel gaps and fitment issues. The customer, part of the initial wave of non-employee deliveries, shared images on the Cybertruck Owners' Club, highlighting concerning flaws in the $100,000 EV pickup, as reported by Electrek.
In the images, notable panel gaps, including a rear panel appearing to detach from the vehicle's frame, raise questions about the quality control processes at Tesla. Due to its unconventional design, Elon Musk has stressed the Cybertruck's fit and finish, although the latest delivery suggests flaws. However, the reported defects raise concerns about Tesla's inspection processes.
Since its debut in November, the Cybertruck has garnered mixed reviews about its functionality and safety.
