A lot of people have been talking about the upcoming Tesla Cybertruck more than any other vehicle in history, perhaps. It may very well become the poster child of this decade’s automotive revolution. Of course, this is a hot topic, but as news keeps surfacing, this prospect just fades in and out of existence among industry insiders, car enthusiasts, and drone operators. Limited official information fuels this speculation while all eyes are on Tesla’s latest electric marvel.
In a recent episode of Munro Live, Sandy Munro and Cory Steuben dissected the potential of the Tesla Cybertruck. Using images, spy shots, and drawing parallels from their previous Model 3 and Model Y teardowns, they predict the Cybertruck may be lighter than its rivals, the Rivian R1T and the Hummer EV.
The duo attributed this weight advantage to the Cybertruck’s use of multiple giga castings, including a single-piece front underbody and two more castings at the side and rear. This feature, they believe, could help the vehicle shed some weight compared to its peers. The unibody construction of the Cybertruck, compared to the ladder frame chassis used by the Hummer and the Rivian, could also contribute to its lighter weight.
“This structure, coupled with the efficient battery pack, eliminates the need for a traditional frame,” noted Steuben. For tax purposes, Steuben stated the Cybertruck might not weigh less than 6,000 pounds. Given that the Rivian R1T has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 8,532 pounds, and the Hummer reportedly exceeds 9,000 pounds, this seems plausible. However, it’s worth noting that classifications can vary, with the EPA labeling the Rivian as a heavy-duty truck.
Munro and Steuben’s speculations extend to the Cybertruck’s structural strength too. Based on analysis of the “body in black” image, the vehicle’s A and B pillars appear incredibly robust, suggesting the use of ultra-high-strength steel, such as boron or hot stamped steel, to meet safety standards. “This thing is going to be bulletproof,” predicted Munro, shedding light on the vehicle’s anticipated strength and safety.
As the release date of the Tesla Cybertruck nears, the anticipation and excitement continue to grow. With its potential to be one of the lightest electric pickup trucks in the market, the Cybertruck poses a significant challenge to its rivals. The use of innovative design, giga castings, and a unibody construction contribute to its potential weight advantage. People eagerly await to see how this revolutionary electric pickup truck will reshape the automotive industry.