Tesla Cybertruck

The Tesla Cybertruck is a full-size electric pickup truck, not a sedan, and it targets tech-forward buyers who want maximum utility paired with Tesla's signature electric performance. Launched for the 2024 model year, it occupies a unique space in the pickup segment with its angular stainless-steel construction and over-the-air software architecture. It competes against the Ford F-150 Lightning and Rivian R1T for EV truck buyers.

The Tesla Cybertruck enters our 2024-2025 coverage window with a genuinely strong crash-test record. The 2025 model earns a 95 out of 100 NHTSA Safety Index, landing in the Exceptional band, while the broader range sits at Strong or better. Frontal and side crash protection each score a perfect 5 out of 5 stars, which is a meaningful achievement for a vehicle this large and unconventional in construction. Rollover protection comes in at 4 out of 5 stars, a reasonable result for a tall, heavy pickup but worth noting for shoppers who prioritize that metric. The recall picture is harder to dismiss. Eleven recalls across just two model years is an elevated count, particularly for a nameplate still in its early production life. That volume suggests Tesla has been working through real-world engineering and software issues at a pace that demands attention from any prospective buyer. Staying current with NHTSA recall notices is not optional here. Owner complaints total 178 across the covered years, including 23 alleged crashes, 21 alleged injuries, and 6 alleged deaths. These are unverified allegations, and raw complaint counts must always be weighed against sales volume, but the figures are notable enough that buyers should review the specific complaint categories before purchasing. Bottom line: the Cybertruck's crash-test performance is legitimately impressive, but its recall history and complaint volume introduce real uncertainty that shoppers must factor in.

WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally acknowledge the Cybertruck as a polarizing but technically ambitious vehicle, praising its electric performance and distinctive design while raising concerns about build quality consistency and the practical challenges of its unconventional stainless-steel body. Most reviewers treat it as a first-generation product that shows real promise alongside real rough edges.