By Jerry Curry, Staff Writer
Many have seen this unusual, wedge type vehicle cruising Salem’s streets and wondered, “what is it?” Well, it’s a fully electric Tesla Cybertruck. The body is made from Tesla’s own pure stainless steel alloy, referred to as the “Ultra-hard 30X Cold-rolled Stainless Steel,” and it is nearly invincible. Located in the rear, the 4ft by 6ft bed of the truck has a retracting cover, and it has a capacity of 11,000 lbs. Also, the Cybertruck has a continuous rearview camera in lieu of an actual mirror. Furthermore, it has 120 and 240 volt outlets, and a storage compartment in the front called a Frunk that can hold 110 lbs.
How does 0 to 60 mph in 2.6 seconds sound? Capable of doing a top speed of 130 mph, the Cybertruck has enough torque to plant you back in your seat. The horsepower range, depending on options, is 600 to 845 hp with a dual-motor AWD option or the “Cyberbeast” trio-motor option. The model I rode in has the trio-motor option with 20-inch wheels. Interestingly enough, there are no door handles, just touch the pad on the door to open.
The interior is full of impressive features such as the 18.5-inch touch screen where the driver can control most everything, and of course it has navigation. The rear seats have a 9.4-inch screen for backseat entertainment, and it is also equipped with wireless phone charging capabilities. Simply lay your cellphone on it.
Much like other Tesla vehicles, the Cybertruck is programmed to know the ways of the road and is able to drive and navigate all on its own. However, one finger must remain on the rectangular steering wheel to ensure the driver is monitoring the operation. The Cybertruck has a range of approximately 320 miles before needing to be recharged. With so many unique features, it can seem intimidating to some. Thankfully, it comes with a 380-page owner’s manual to ensure the driver knows how to operate each bell and every whistle.
All of these cutting-edge features come at a cost, though. The price range for a Cybertruck starts at approximately $80 thousand and can easily reach heights of $130 thousand. That being said, the Tesla Cybertruck is most certainly a unique and polarizing vehicle. Ranging from its features to its shape, there is nothing quite like it.
Photos by Jerry Curry.