Tesla's Cybertruck sales have plummeted, but the reason may not be just Elon Musk's proximity to Donald Trump; here's what’s really behind the drop
US Cybertruck sales fell 32.5% during the January to February period, down to only 2,619 units, reported Auto Blog. Even though CEO Elon Musk had claimed that the Cybertruck is the company's «best product ever,» according to the report.
The Bigger Picture: Tesla's Sales Slump
Although the Cybertruck decline is not an exception, it's part of an overall slowdown at Tesla, according to Auto Blog. During the same period, the US sales of the company as a whole declined by 10%, including a 17.5% decline in the Model 3 sedan, reported Auto Blog.
Elon Musk's Controversial Public Image
One of the reasons why the Cybertruck has failed may be the changing attitude towards Tesla itself, considerably due to Musk's polarizing public image, as per the report. The CEO's political position and controversies have rendered him a polarizing character, sending away past enthusiasts and would-be buyers, according to Auto Blog. Protests against Tesla dealerships have taken place, with a few consumers complaining about Musk's conduct and policies, as per the report.
Is the Cybertruck Just Too Niche?
The Cybertruck itself may also be struggling because of its design and price, as per the report. The Cybertruck is bold and has features like a steer-by-wire system, and four-wheel steering, reported Auto Blog. But its niche appeal may be constraining its wider market potential, according to Auto Blog
Price is also an obstacle. Tesla originally promised the Cybertruck would begin at $39,900, but that escalated to about $70,000, reported Auto Blog. That was on top of the fact that special edition trucks were originally set above $100,000, as per the report. For many consumers, the high price and unusual design may be too much to consider worth