The Brief Reign of Tesla's Entry-Level Cybertruck
Tesla's Disappearing Act: The Single-Motor Cybertruck's Short Stint
Tesla had initially unveiled plans for a more budget-friendly, single-motor Cybertruck, aiming to broaden its market appeal. However, this particular version, after being made available for a mere five months, was quietly removed from the company's online configurator. Its introduction came over a year into the Cybertruck's production cycle, making its abrupt disappearance even more notable.
Performance Compromises for Affordability: Understanding the RWD Model's Specifications
To achieve a lower price point, the single-motor RWD Cybertruck made several concessions. It lacked a front motor, resulting in significantly less power and the absence of all-wheel drive. Generating 321 horsepower, it paled in comparison to the dual-motor's 593 hp and the formidable tri-motor Beast's 834 hp. Towing capacity was also reduced from 11,000 pounds in the multi-motor versions to 7,500 pounds. Furthermore, it did not feature a launch mode, and attempts to use brake torque for quicker acceleration were met with power limitations.
Acceleration Benchmarks: How the RWD Cybertruck Stacks Up
In rigorous testing, the Long Range Cybertruck accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds. This figure stands in stark contrast to the dual-motor variant's 3.9 seconds and the tri-motor Beast's blistering 2.6 seconds. This makes the RWD model the slowest Tesla ever tested, even trailing a 2014 Model S 60. While other electric pickups tested also exhibited faster acceleration, it's worth noting that they typically featured multi-motor powertrains.
Navigating the Road: Handling Characteristics and Autonomous Capabilities
Despite its slower acceleration, the RWD Cybertruck's unique steering system contributes to its unexpected drivability. The active steering rack and rear-wheel steering provide quick and precise responses, making it agile at lower speeds. Side-mounted cameras assist drivers in gauging curb clearance during tight turns. The optional Full Self-Driving mode, while costly, is noted for its impressive and somewhat surreal performance.
Suspension System and Braking Performance: A Detailed Look
Unlike its siblings, the RWD Cybertruck utilizes coil springs and adaptive dampers instead of air suspension, meaning the ride height is no longer adjustable. Despite being over 700 pounds lighter than the Beast, its braking performance from 70 mph (179 feet) remained nearly identical, relying on the same 20-inch all-terrain tires.
Interior Features and Design: A Step Down in Luxury
The interior of the RWD model features pleasant cloth seating surfaces, a departure from the upscale vinyl found in other Cybertrucks. It also omits ventilated front seats, a rear passenger display, and in-bed power outlets. The headlights also sport a simpler design, reflecting the cost-saving measures implemented in this variant.
Range and Efficiency: A Comparative Analysis
On a 75-mph highway loop, the Long Range Cybertruck achieved 250 miles, a figure matching the tri-motor Beast. However, this RWD model faced certain disadvantages, such as the absence of a motorized bed shutter, which was found to improve highway range by 11 percent in previous tests. The inclusion of an optional 20-inch wheel setup, instead of the standard 18-inch wheels, likely also impacted its potential range. In comparison, other electric pickups like the dual-motor Rivian R1T (280 miles) and the dual-motor Chevrolet Silverado LT (310 miles) demonstrated superior highway range.