Spending three days immersed in the Tesla Cybertruck was nothing short of an experience. It was an unusual and, at times, perplexing journey, marked by moments of frustration and constant public attention. However, beyond the initial strangeness and polarizing aesthetics, the Cybertruck 2024 revealed itself to be a surprisingly rapid and enjoyable vehicle, albeit one that undeniably stands out from the crowd.
Equipped with the quintessential Tesla interface, dominated by a large central screen controlling almost every function, the Cybertruck also boasts unique features not found in models like the Model 3 or Model Y. While some aspects, such as a less-than-ideal charging port design and the absence of grab handles, seemed like oversights, other thoughtful touches elevated the experience, reinforcing the luxury feel expected from a vehicle in the $100,000 price range.
Here are 10 features that particularly impressed during the test drive of the Tesla Cybertruck 2024:
1. Exhilarating Acceleration
The Tesla Cybertruck 2024 delivers breathtaking power. In sport mode, the acceleration is phenomenal, launching the vehicle from 0 to 60 mph in a blink. The sheer force is immediately apparent, making it arguably the most captivating aspect of the truck’s performance. It effortlessly devours road, reaching high speeds with impressive swiftness.
The regenerative braking system, a standard feature, requires some adjustment. Initially, it can feel abrupt, especially for drivers accustomed to traditional vehicles. Releasing the accelerator pedal induces strong deceleration, which can be unsettling at first. However, mastering pedal modulation allows for smooth cruising and controlled speed adjustments, enhancing the driving experience once acclimated.
2. Convenient Hidden Wireless Charging
Integrated seamlessly into the center console, the wireless charging pad is a standout convenience feature in the Tesla Cybertruck 2024. Located next to the cupholder, this charging slot also serves as the designated place for the phone or key to activate the vehicle. The automatic and rapid wireless charging is a refined detail that enhances the user experience. This subtle yet highly practical addition contributes to the premium feel of the Cybertruck, making it a feature that owners would undoubtedly appreciate daily.
3. Unexpectedly Practical Door Operation
The absence of conventional door handles on the Tesla Cybertruck 2024 initially feels unconventional. However, this design choice quickly becomes intuitive and even advantageous, especially when hands are full. Entering the Cybertruck is initiated by pressing a discreet button located on the door pillar. This action gently pops the door ajar, providing just enough space to easily grab and fully open it. This system proves surprisingly user-friendly in various situations, offering a modern and streamlined approach to vehicle entry.
4. Intelligent Trip Planning with Real-Time Adjustments
Tesla’s trip planner in the Cybertruck excels at providing accurate range estimations, even under dynamic conditions. During a drive to a Supercharger, the system demonstrated its ability to factor in real-world variables such as aggressive acceleration, wind resistance, and air conditioning usage. These elements were logged as contributing factors influencing the predicted final charge level. Remarkably, the initial range estimate remained consistently close to the actual outcome, differing by only a few miles after hundreds of miles of driving. This level of precision in range prediction is noteworthy, particularly when compared to similar systems in other electric vehicles, highlighting Tesla’s advanced software capabilities.
5. Abundant Electrical Outlets
As an electric vehicle, the Tesla Cybertruck 2024 is naturally equipped to supply power, and it delivers on this with a generous array of outlets. Strategically placed plugs are available in the truck bed, the front trunk (frunk), and within the cabin itself. These outlets provide convenient access to power electronic devices, making the Cybertruck highly versatile. This feature aligns with the functionality expected from modern electric trucks, ensuring users can easily utilize the vehicle’s battery capacity for various power needs, whether for work or recreation.
6. Spacious and Comfortable Rear Seating
The rear passenger area in the Tesla Cybertruck 2024 offers a level of comfort that surpasses typical pickup truck expectations. Passengers in the back are treated to ample legroom and ergonomically designed seats that avoid the overly upright posture common in many truck cabs. Adding to the rear seat experience is a dedicated entertainment screen providing access to games and movies, individual climate control settings, natural light from the sunroof, and convenient cupholders. These amenities ensure that even longer journeys in the back seat of the Cybertruck are enjoyable.
7. Adaptive Suspension for Enhanced Accessibility
The Tesla Cybertruck 2024 features an adjustable suspension system that enhances both comfort and practicality. While the Cybertruck’s overall size is substantial, a characteristic shared by many trucks on US roads, its adaptive suspension is a welcome feature. When parked, the suspension automatically lowers, reducing the vehicle’s ride height and making entry and exit noticeably easier. Furthermore, drivers can manually adjust the suspension height while driving, allowing for customized ride comfort and ground clearance depending on road conditions.
8. Secure and Minimalist Glove Box
The glove box in the Cybertruck embodies the vehicle’s futuristic design ethos. It forgoes traditional latches and locks for a clean, seamless aesthetic. Access to the glove box is electronically controlled and can be PIN-protected, offering an extra layer of security. Even with full vehicle access via keycard and app, the test vehicle had a PIN-protected glove box set by the host, demonstrating its secure storage capability. This feature blends security with the Cybertruck’s overall minimalist design philosophy.
9. Convenient Powered Bed Cover
The powered tonneau cover of the Tesla Cybertruck 2024 is a key element of its distinctive aesthetic, while also contributing to aerodynamic efficiency and cargo security. This retractable bed cover is easily operated via the Tesla app, the central interior screen, or buttons located in the truck bed rails. Standard on the Cybertruck, the powered bed cover adds a layer of sophistication and practicality, enhancing both the look and utility of the vehicle.
10. Rapid Supercharging Capability
Tesla’s Supercharger network is renowned for its performance, and the Cybertruck 2024 benefits significantly from this infrastructure. As the first Tesla vehicle with an 800-volt powertrain, the Cybertruck boasts impressively fast charging speeds. Tesla claims a range of up to 340 miles on a full charge and plans to introduce a range extender option in the future. While some reviews have noted a potential tapering off of peak charging power, this was not observed during the test drives, possibly due to a battery protection limit set by the vehicle owner. The fast charging capability significantly enhances the usability and convenience of the Tesla Cybertruck 2024 for longer journeys.
