The Tesla Cybertruck has been generating buzz for years with its radical design and promises of futuristic performance. After much anticipation, deliveries have finally begun, and like many, I was eager to see this groundbreaking vehicle in person. Recently, I had the chance to get up close and personal with not just one, but two Cybertrucks, an experience that offered a fascinating first look beyond just Tesla Truck Images online.
Stepping into the Future: The Door and Interior
Approaching the Cybertruck, the first thing that strikes you is its sheer unconventionality. Forget traditional door handles; accessing the interior is a touch-sensitive affair. A gentle tap on a small light on the door pillar, and the door electrically pops open, a subtle yet undeniably futuristic entry. Slipping inside, the cabin continues the theme of minimalist innovation. In place of the usual array of buttons, levers, and stalks, the Cybertruck presents a remarkably clean and uncluttered space. The absence of a traditional gear selector immediately stands out, prompting a moment of searching for the familiar controls.
The Cybertruck screen with gear selector in the upper left corner
The gear selection, it turns out, is seamlessly integrated into the large central multimedia screen. Upon powering up the Cybertruck by pressing the brake pedal, a digital representation of the truck appears on the display. To engage drive or reverse, you simply interact with this on-screen image, dragging a truck icon up for drive and down for reverse. This innovative approach, while initially requiring a moment of familiarization, quickly proves to be intuitive and efficient. The entire experience underscores Tesla’s commitment to rethinking automotive interfaces, moving away from physical controls towards a more software-driven interaction.
Behind the Yoke: Steer-by-Wire and Handling
The steering wheel itself is another departure from the norm, adopting a yoke design that’s flat both on the top and bottom. Beyond its unique shape, the Cybertruck features steer-by-wire technology, an electronic system that replaces the mechanical linkage between the steering wheel and the wheels. Having previously experienced steer-by-wire in a Lexus prototype, I was already aware of its enhanced precision. It delivers a steering feel akin to a video game, requiring minimal input even for significant turns.
Complementing the steer-by-wire system is the Cybertruck’s rear-wheel steering capability, offering up to 7 degrees of articulation. While this might seem like a small angle, it makes a substantial difference in maneuverability, especially for a vehicle of the Cybertruck’s size and angular design. This combination of technologies promises to make parking and navigating tight spaces surprisingly effortless. Putting it to the test, I was asked to back the Cybertruck into a parking spot. Despite initial hesitation maneuvering such a novel vehicle in front of onlookers, the Cybertruck impressed. The rear-wheel steering, in particular, proved invaluable, allowing for precise and easy positioning between a Ford F-150 Lightning and a Rivian R1T – vehicles being used for a comparison video. The maneuverability far exceeded expectations, highlighting the effectiveness of these advanced steering systems in a large pickup.
Inside the Cybertruck: A Post-Apocalyptic Man-Cave
Stepping back to further examine the interior, the Cybertruck evokes a distinct “post-apocalyptic man-cave on wheels” aesthetic. It’s rugged, minimalist, and functional, designed to feel both robust and spacious. The model I explored featured all-weather floor mats, durable-looking leatherette seating, and a center console equipped with practical cupholders – a nod to everyday needs even within a futuristic vehicle. The footwells are notably wide, accommodating even large boots, and the expansive glass roof amplifies the sense of spaciousness within the cabin. The rear seats appeared generous, easily capable of handling backpacks and gear, reinforcing the Cybertruck’s utility.
The Tesla Cybertruck’s open interior and floating center console.
Storage solutions are cleverly integrated. The truck bed, covered by a retractable, lockable tonneau cover, offers secure cargo space, though items might shift during driving. For more contained storage, the frunk is surprisingly voluminous. Demonstrating its capacity, the Cybertruck owners effortlessly loaded two roll-aboard suitcases into the front trunk, showcasing its practical size and accessibility.
Exterior Details: Striking and Sharp
Moving to the exterior, several details immediately capture attention. The front and rear light bars create a distinctive visual signature, while the robust wheel cladding adds to the Cybertruck’s assertive stance. Then there’s the windshield wiper – a single, oversized unit, resembling a baseball bat in size and shape. This prominent feature, often missed in tesla truck images, is striking in person and underscores the Cybertruck’s unique design language.
Notice how big the windshield wiper on the Cybertruck is.
The electric tonneau cover, activated by a push button, smoothly retracts into the truck bed, adding both convenience and a touch of technological sophistication. However, the most defining exterior element is undoubtedly the raw, unpainted stainless steel skin. At 0.071 inches thick, it feels substantially more solid than typical automotive body panels, imparting a sense of invulnerability. Yet, this stainless steel construction also introduces a design characteristic not commonly found in vehicles: sharp edges. As demonstrated in a “pinch test,” the Cybertruck’s panels lack the rounded, softened edges of conventional vehicles, and the doors and frunk lid lack rubber gaskets. This results in pinch points capable of easily crushing carrots and hotdogs, serving as a reminder of the need for caution, particularly around children, when operating the Cybertruck’s moving parts.
Cybertruck vs. Reality: Hype and Practicality
After this initial hands-on experience, the Cybertruck’s appeal becomes clearer. While questions remain regarding its off-road prowess and real-world durability – especially given its size and lack of traditional skid plates to protect the undercarriage – its “video-game-in-real-life” character is undeniable. Despite its robust steel exterior, the absence of underbody protection raises questions about its suitability for serious off-roading.
The Cybertruck sits between a Rivian R1T and Ford F-150 Lightning
However, for those drawn to its futuristic aesthetic and innovative technology, the Cybertruck delivers a driving experience unlike any other. It’s a statement vehicle, a blend of ruggedness and cutting-edge technology that redefines the pickup truck segment. For individuals seeking a vehicle that embodies futuristic design and stands out from the crowd, the Tesla Cybertruck, as these tesla truck images and first-hand impressions reveal, is poised to fulfill that desire.
