Tesla has unveiled a new, cheaper version of its electric pickup truck, the Cybetruck Long Range, in the US. The price starts at $69,990 excluding additional fees and taxes.

The new Tesla Cybetruck Long Range with a claimed range of 350 miles (563 kilometres) costs $10,000 less than the all-wheel-drive version with two electric motors and a range of 325 miles (523 kilometres).

The new entry-level electric pickup has a single rear-mounted motor and a mechanical differential lock. Tesla claims that with the optional soft-top boot lid, the vehicle's range increases to 362 miles (582 kilometres).

The reduced price of the base version of the Cybertruck comes with a number of simplifications over the all-wheel-drive model. For example, the Long Range version can only tow up to 7,500 pounds (3,400 kg), compared to 11,000 pounds (almost 5,000 kg) for the all-wheel drive version and Cyberbeast. Payload is reduced to 2,006 lb (910 kg) - compared to 2,271 lb (1,030) kg for the Cyberbeast and 2,500 lb (1,130 kg) for the all-wheel-drive version.

Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph (0-96 km/h) takes 6.2 seconds for the base Cybertruck. This compares to 4.1 seconds for the all-wheel drive version and just 2.6 seconds for the top-of-the-range Cyberbeast.

There is no air suspension with ground clearance adjustment. Instead, adaptive suspension with coil springs is used. The basic configuration is equipped with 18-inch wheels with all-season tyres. For a surcharge of $3,500, 20-inch discs are available. It is also the only version of the Cybertruck with a cloth interior.

In addition, Tesla has removed the rear screen mounted on the centre console and the front seats have been stripped of ventilation. Although, however, there is still heating. Audio system in the basic version contains 7 speakers, while in two more expensive configurations there are 15 speakers and active noise cancellation system.

The $69,990 Cybertruck has no household outlets, unlike the older versions where several are provided. The only way to get 120 volts from the main battery is to plug a Tesla mobile charger into the charging port and use an adapter. That way, the owner has access to two 120-volt outlets.

Tesla is already taking orders for the new base version of the pickup through its website. A non-refundable payment of $250 is required to place an order, along with an additional $1,995 delivery fee. Thus, the actual starting price is $72,235.

Tesla notes that the Cybertruck Long Range qualifies for a $7,500 federal tax credit. If the buyer qualifies, the final cost could drop to $64,735.

Source: InsideEVs

Евгений Ушаков
Evgenii Ushakov
15 years driving