After years of anticipation, the “cheap” Cybertruck is finally here – but will the price drop be enough to win over more buyers?
Tesla has started sending out invitations to order the non-Foundation Series Cybertruck, which starts at a lower price of $79,990 before options. This new development allows customers to finally order the electric pickup truck without the extra bells and whistles of the Foundation Series. Up until now, the only available version of the Cybertruck had been the more expensive Foundation Series, which came with a hefty $20,000 premium and a variety of extras. With the standard version now in play, Tesla fans and buyers are excited to see if this will increase the truck’s overall appeal.
The Foundation Series brought the Cybertruck’s price up significantly, making the all-wheel-drive (AWD) version cost $99,990 and the tri-motor Cyberbeast jump to $119,990. The premium package included a number of upgrades, such as Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) software, upgraded wheels, white interior options, and a suite of other accessories. While these features were enticing, they also pushed the Cybertruck into a price range that wasn’t accessible for many buyers.
With the non-Foundation Series now available for order, customers can opt for a much more simplified version of the Cybertruck. For instance, a buyer can select a Cybertruck AWD with core wheels, tactical grey interior, no FSD, and no additional accessories for just $79,990 before taxes and fees. This is a more palatable option for those who want the Cybertruck but don’t need the additional perks that come with the Foundation Series. However, it is worth noting that the range of the standard Cybertruck AWD is slightly lower than the Foundation Series version—325 miles per charge compared to 340 miles.
BREAKING: Tesla has officially begun inviting people to order the less expensive non-Foundation Series Cybertrucks!
It starts at $79,990. The $99,990 ti-motor Cyberbeast is also now available to order.
Production of cheaper Cybertrucks is finally about to start! pic.twitter.com/mTFUbZu1MK
— Sawyer Merritt (@SawyerMerritt) October 4, 2024
Although the Foundation Series had a premium price tag, some early adopters still feel it was worth the investment. When you add up all the extras included with the Foundation Series, such as the FSD package, special wheels, and white interior, along with accessories like the Tesla Shop voucher, off-road light bar, and lifetime Premium Connectivity, it adds up to a small $3,000 premium for early reservation holders. Given the perks and extras, many customers believe that the extra cost was justified.
Another interesting point about this latest development is that Tesla has not yet confirmed if the standard Cybertruck AWD qualifies for the U.S. federal tax credit. While it meets the price threshold of being under $80,000, there’s still some ambiguity surrounding its eligibility. This could be important for buyers looking to take advantage of the tax incentives that come with purchasing an electric vehicle.
In terms of deliveries, Tesla estimates that the non-Foundation Series Cybertruck will start shipping to customers between October and November 2024. This means that many buyers who have been patiently waiting for a more affordable version of the truck may finally get their hands on it soon.
Overall, the availability of the non-Foundation Series Cybertruck marks a significant moment for Tesla. By offering a cheaper version of its highly anticipated electric truck, the company is opening the door for more buyers to experience the vehicle. Now, the question is whether this lower price point will boost demand for the Cybertruck, or if it will remain a niche product with a dedicated but limited fanbase.
