Tesla CEO Elon Musk says 146,000 orders so far for Cybertruck despite launch event embarrassment
- The launch of the Cybertruck pickup suffered a setback when its ‘armoured glass’ windows shattered in a much-anticipated unveiling
Tesla Chief Executive Officer Elon Musk said the company has amassed 146,000 orders for its Cybertruck, less than 48 hours after the polarising vehicle was first shown amid shattered glass.
The electric-car maker has a history of unveiling future products to throngs of excited customers, taking deposits, and then delivering years later.
Two years ago, Tesla showed off a Semi truck and a next generation Roadster sports car, but neither vehicle is in production yet. This spring, Musk unveiled the Model Y crossover; that vehicle is slated to begin production next summer.
Tesla’s website allows customers to order the electric truck for a fully refundable US$100, and says they can complete their configuration “as production nears in late 2021”.
Musk said in a tweet that 42 per cent had ordered the dual-motor option, which starts at US$49,900, while 41 per cent have ordered the S$69,900 triple-motor option, production of which is expected to begin in late 2022. Just 17 per cent ordered the single-motor version, which begins at US$39,900.
The US$100 deposit for the Cybertruck is far cheaper than the US$1,000 that was required to reserve a Model 3 sedan.