Tesla CEO Elon Musk has announced plans to discontinue production of the company‘s Cybertruck, with manufacturing activities at its Texas Gigafactory expected to wind down by mid-2027.
Musk disclosed the decision in a post on X on Friday, signalling an end to the production of the electric pickup, which entered the market in November 2023.
Responding to a fan who described the announcement as the end of an era, Musk said the existing Cybertruck fleet would remain on the roads for a long time.
Approximately 70,000 Cybertrucks have been purchased since the vehicle’s launch.
Tesla Fans React Angrily to the Decision
The announcement attracted criticism from Tesla supporters and Cybertruck owners who questioned the company’s decision to discontinue a vehicle they believe performs well.
One fan described the move as a terrible plan, arguing that Tesla should only consider ending production if it intends to introduce another large vehicle.
Another criticised the decision, saying customers still wanted a Tesla pickup capable of handling off-road conditions.
Some owners also expressed disappointment that the vehicle could become unavailable for new buyers despite having recently purchased one themselves.
One Cybertruck owner said they were disappointed to have bought what they considered an impressive vehicle only to learn two months later that no more would be available for purchase.
Musk did not provide details about whether Tesla would continue offering maintenance services and replacement parts once production ends.
He also did not clarify whether manufacturing could be transferred to another Tesla facility outside Texas.
Cybertruck Faced Recalls and Technical Problems
Since its market launch, the Cybertruck has been recalled 11 times over various mechanical and safety-related problems.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration identified several defects, including a light bar that could detach from the vehicle, issues with parking light brightness, loose trim panels, windshield wiper malfunctions and an accelerator pedal pad that could become stuck.
Most of the recalls were addressed through free over-the-air software updates or complimentary repairs and replacement of defective components at Tesla service centres.
In April, Tesla also recalled 173 Cybertrucks over concerns that wheel studs could separate from the vehicles.
The pickup has faced criticism since its unveiling in 2019, when its demonstration was disrupted after a metal ball shattered one of the windows advertised as unbreakable during Musk’s presentation.
Deliveries did not begin until four years later, with the rollout accompanied by increased prices, reduced driving range, repeated recalls and sales that fell short of expectations.
Tesla Redirects Attention Towards Autonomous Vehicles
Musk’s announcement also outlined Tesla’s plans to shift its focus towards developing self-driving vehicles, particularly the Cybercab, which is designed for autonomous passenger transportation.
The Cybercab, also known as the Robotaxi, is a two-passenger electric vehicle developed to operate as a driverless rideshare car.
The vehicles are already providing commercial public rides in Austin, Texas.
Tesla’s decision to prioritise autonomous transportation comes as the company maintains manufacturing operations in several locations, including California, China and Germany.
However, its Texas facility remains the only plant responsible for producing the Cybertruck.
Cybertruck Becomes Target of Protests Against Musk
Beyond its manufacturing and technical challenges, the Cybertruck has also attracted controversy because of Musk’s political activities.
Several vehicles have been vandalised or targeted in attempted acts of destruction by individuals protesting Musk’s involvement with the Trump administration and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
The pickup’s distinctive angular stainless-steel exterior has made it easily recognisable, while its association with Musk has placed it at the centre of wider political disagreements.
Musk Faces Further Setbacks Following Political Spending
The production announcement comes days after reports emerged that Musk lost more than $445 million in efforts to support conservative candidates during the US midterm election campaigns.
Of the 37 Republican candidates contesting House seats who received Musk’s backing, only three secured victories.
Six of the seven Senate candidates supported by the billionaire also lost their elections.
Meanwhile, Tesla customers have raised concerns about the absence of another vehicle of comparable size in the company’s current lineup.
Some Cybertruck owners have indicated that discontinuing the pickup could influence their future purchasing decisions, particularly if Tesla does not introduce a replacement model.
Despite announcing the production wind-down, Musk has yet to explain how the company intends to support existing Cybertruck owners after manufacturing ends in 2027.
