Unplugged Performance (UP), a specialist in Tesla aftermarket modifications, has offered to take over Cybertruck production as Tesla prepares to wind down manufacturing at its Gigafactory Texas facility around mid-2027.
The company published an open proposal to Tesla, saying an investor-backed consortium could continue producing the electric pickup without using Tesla’s factory space, workforce or operational resources.
Tesla to End Cybertruck Production in Texas by Mid-2027 to Expand Cybercab Output
Under the proposed arrangement, Tesla would receive licensing fees and revenue from Full Self-Driving (FSD) and its Robotaxi network for every vehicle produced. UP also said Cybercab production would receive priority access to battery cells.
CyberSUV and CyberCargo Also Proposed
Beyond the Cybertruck, UP proposed developing additional vehicles based on the platform, including a three-row CyberSUV and an autonomous CyberCargo hauler.
Founder Ben Schaffer said the proposal supports Tesla’s focus on autonomous driving while seeking to preserve the Cybertruck programme.
The company already operates a substantial Cybertruck aftermarket business, offering suspension upgrades, protective equipment and conversion packages. It has also secured contracts to adapt Cybertrucks for law enforcement use.
Tesla and CEO Elon Musk had not publicly responded to the proposal at the time of the announcement.
Weak Demand Behind Cybertruck Production Plans
Tesla’s planned production wind-down follows weaker-than-expected Cybertruck sales. The company originally targeted annual production capacity of 250,000 units, but deliveries have remained considerably below that ambition.
Tesla delivered 8,295 vehicles across its Other Models category in the third quarter of 2026, with industry estimates suggesting Cybertrucks accounted for approximately 7,000 to 8,000 units.
That would represent an annualised sales pace of roughly 30,000 vehicles, around 12% of Tesla’s original production target.
Tesla has also experimented with different pricing strategies, including introducing a lower-cost rear-wheel-drive version before discontinuing it and launching a $60,000 all-wheel-drive model. A subsequent $5,000 price increase has not resolved demand challenges.
Tesla Prioritises Cybercab Production
Musk has described the Cybertruck production wind-down as necessary to create additional manufacturing capacity for the Cybercab autonomous vehicle programme.
Unplugged Performance argues that its proposal would allow Tesla to concentrate on autonomous vehicles while retaining potential revenue from the Cybertruck platform.
However, the proposal remains an offer rather than an agreed production arrangement, with no confirmation from Tesla regarding a potential transfer or licensing agreement.