After nearly four years since its initial introduction in November 2019, the highly anticipated Tesla Cybertruck is poised to take a significant step toward becoming a production reality. A recent video captured by drone operator Joe Tegtmeyer at the Texas Gigafactory has unveiled an intriguing development.
In the half-hour video, Tegtmeyer revealed that Tesla has completed at least two “manufacturing confirmation units” of the Cybertruck, colloquially referred to as “Master Candidates.” According to the footage, these electric pickups were scheduled for review by Tesla’s top executives to receive the final stamp of approval. This pivotal step signifies that customer-intent assembly is on track to commence later this year.
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These two fresh Cybertrucks are the first to emerge from the Texas Gigafactory following a period of closure for upgrades and enhancements to the assembly line. Prominent Tesla insider Greggertruck, commenting on the discovery, noted that these units exhibit improved build quality compared to their predecessors. Notable enhancements include a flush frunk, the absence of marks on the tonneau cover, and enhanced interior plastics.
See also: Elon Musk Hints at “Next-Level” Performance Cybertruck in Latest Revelation
Additionally, these vehicles feature recovery hooks and safety notice labels on the sun visors. The steering wheel design is an updated variant, combining elements of the controversial yoke design with the more traditional round wheel.
First good look’s at manufacturing confirmation Cybertrucks AKA “series 8”.
-Tip safety notice labels on sun visors. -Refined quality on the plastics.
-No tonneau “skid mark”.
-Frunk is flush.
-Recovery hooks Installed https://t.co/l4A4rqdxP6 pic.twitter.com/bkWVgD5hs3— Greggertruck (@greggertruck) September 25, 2023
Tegtmeyer’s video also suggests that forthcoming Series 8 Cybertrucks may find their way to Tesla stores for prospective customers to view and test. Following this phase, Series 9 vehicles are expected to represent the final production variant, destined for reservation holders who proceed with their purchase.
In related developments, Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently hinted at the possibility of a Performance version of the all-electric pickup. In a comment posted on social media, Musk expressed that he had driven it and described it as “next-level” in performance.
See also: Tesla Cybertruck’s Acceleration Tested in New Video Amid Delivery Speculation
While the specifics of this performance claim remain undisclosed, it raises anticipation regarding how the Cybertruck will stack up against other electric pickups on the market, such as the GMC Hummer EV and the Ford F-150 Lightning. Notably, Musk had previously mentioned that initial Cybertruck units would feature a quad-motor layout, suggesting exceptional power and capabilities.
