Tesla is poised to raise the price of its much-anticipated Cybertruck just days after making a more budget-friendly version available to US customers. The move signals potential adjustments to the electric pickup’s pricing strategy, particularly for the newly launched Long Range dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) variant.
Price Hike Imminent for Entry-Level Cybertruck
The company has indicated a price increase is expected by the end of the current week. A prominent header on Tesla’s Cybertruck configurator explicitly states: “Cybertruck Dual Motor AWD: Starting at $US59,990. Price Increases after February 28.” This notice was posted shortly after the release of the more accessible variant.
This impending price adjustment follows comments made by Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who suggested that the new AWD Long Range entry-level model could see its price rise if demand remains high. Responding to queries on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Musk stated, “Depends on how much demand we see at this price level.”
The launch of the Long Range AWD variant, priced from $US59,990 (approximately $A84,800), offers a significant reduction, estimated at around 40%, compared to the top-spec Cyberbeast model. This strategic pricing aims to broaden the Cybertruck’s appeal to a wider range of consumers.
Cybertruck Lineup and Specifications
Before any potential price increases take effect, the current Cybertruck lineup in the US comprises three distinct models:
- Long Range AWD – $US59,990
- Premium AWD – $US79,990
- Tri-motor Cyberbeast – $US99,990
The new Long Range AWD variant is equipped with a substantial 123 kWh battery pack, delivering an estimated EPA-rated range of over 520 kilometers. This range is calculated using a more conservative testing cycle compared to the WLTP standard.
In terms of charging, the Cybertruck supports DC fast charging with peak rates of up to 325 kW. Tesla anticipates further improvements with the rollout of its new V4 Supercharger hardware, which is being introduced in the US before expanding to international markets.
Practicality is enhanced by a powered tonneau cover for the truck’s sizable bed. The vehicle also features versatile power outlets, including two 120 V and one 240 V V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) ports, enabling it to power external devices and equipment.
Performance and Utility Features
The Cybertruck boasts a robust drivetrain engineered for performance. Tesla claims a 0 to 60 mph (approximately 0 to 96 km/h) acceleration time of 4.1 seconds, translating to a 0 to 100 km/h time in the low four-second range.
For utility, the new variant offers a braked towing capacity of 3.4 tonnes. If introduced in markets like Australia, this capacity would position it among the highest-rated electric vehicles for towing available locally.
Another notable feature is its substantial ground clearance, exceeding 240 mm. This attribute enhances its off-road capability, although it lacks the adjustable ride height offered by the air suspension systems found in the more premium Cybertruck variants.
The interior is dominated by an 18.5-inch central touchscreen. However, this entry-level variant does not include the rear passenger display that is present in some other Tesla models destined for markets like Australia.
Indications of Strong Demand
The delivery timeframe for the Long Range AWD variant currently indicates Q4 of 2026. This estimate was recently pushed back from June, suggesting a significant level of early interest and demand, even at the lower starting price point.
Reports from users, such as one noted by ‘Greggertruck’ on X, indicate that delivery estimates in some regions, like Arizona, have shifted to between September and October 2026. This aligns with observations of strong demand impacting delivery schedules.
The evolving pricing and delivery schedules will be closely monitored, especially as Tesla aims to ramp up production at its Gigafactory in Texas, where the Cybertruck and other next-generation vehicles are manufactured.