A Price Tag Designed for Incentive Eligibility

When Tesla unveiled the production version of the Cybertruck in late 2023, it surprised many with a price significantly higher than the originally promised $39,900. Despite the increase, Tesla strategically priced the dual-motor variant just below $80,000—the eligibility cap for the EV tax credit for SUVs and pickup trucks.

Initially, Tesla began delivering the higher-end Foundation Series Cybertruck, priced at least $20,000 more than the base model, making it ineligible for the tax credit. However, in October 2024, deliveries of the sub-$80,000 non-Foundation Series models began, yet these vehicles initially did not qualify for the tax incentive.

IRS Approval Clears the Path

An update to the IRS website has now confirmed that both the Cybertruck Dual Motor and Single Motor versions (though the latter is not yet in production) qualify for the $7,500 federal tax credit. The reasons behind the initial delay in eligibility remain unclear, but EV tax credit requirements extend beyond pricing. Vehicles must also meet stringent criteria regarding the sourcing of parts and materials.

The Cybertruck is the only Tesla model featuring the automaker’s in-house manufactured battery cells, and it’s possible that obtaining regulatory approval for these cells delayed the eligibility.

Will the Tax Credit Revive Cybertruck Sales?

This tax credit could make the Cybertruck more attractive to buyers, especially as Tesla has struggled to meet its initial demand projections in the US. Reports indicate that Tesla has even rebranded Foundation Series models as standard Cybertrucks to boost sales and has redirected trucks intended for the US market to Canada.

However, the effectiveness of the tax credit in driving sales remains to be seen. Buyers must meet income requirements to claim the incentive: annual earnings must not exceed $150,000 for single filers or $300,000 for joint filers. This restriction may exclude many potential buyers of the luxury electric truck.

A Political Battle on the Horizon

The tax credit’s long-term availability is also in question. The incoming Trump administration, supported by Musk, has openly called for the elimination of EV incentives. While removing the tax credit would require Congressional approval, the timeline and specifics of such a decision, including whether a phase-out period would apply, are uncertain.

For now, the $7,500 tax credit presents an opportunity for Tesla to reinvigorate Cybertruck sales. How long that opportunity lasts, however, remains an open question.

1. Tire Category: The “P” designation indicates that the tire is designed for passenger vehicles (Optional).
2. Tire Width: A 3-digit number representing the tire’s width in millimeters, measured from one sidewall edge to the other.
3. Aspect Ratio: A 2-digit number that shows the sidewall height as a percentage of the tread width. For example, a 205 mm tread width and a 50 aspect ratio results in a 102 mm sidewall height.
4. Tire Construction: The “R” signifies that the tire is built with radial ply construction.
5. Wheel Diameter: A 2-digit number indicating the diameter of the wheel rim in inches.
6. Load Index: This 2 or 3-digit number refers to the maximum weight each tire can carry. This is not always visible.
7. Speed Rating: When provided, this shows the maximum speed (in mph) the tire can handle over extended use. For instance, Q = 99 mph, R = 106 mph, S = 112 mph, etc., up to Y = 186 mph. A (Y) rating exceeds the standard Y rating and refers to the vehicle’s top speed.
8. Load Range: Marked as Standard Load (SL) or Extra Load (XL), the load range specifies how much weight a tire can support at a given pressure. Always replace with the same load range and use the same range for towing with snow tires.
9. Tire Composition and Materials: The number of plies in the tread and sidewall indicates how many layers of rubber-coated material are used. Material types are also specified.
10. Maximum Load: The greatest weight a tire can carry.
11. Maximum Inflation Pressure: The highest inflation pressure the tire can withstand, though it should not be used during normal driving.
12. U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN): Starting with “DOT,” this shows the tire complies with federal standards. It includes the plant code and manufacturing date (week/year), such as “1712” for the 17th week of 2012. Other numbers are manufacturer-specific marketing codes and are used for recalls if needed.
13. Treadwear Grade: This number reflects how quickly the tire wears out. A higher number, such as 400, indicates the tire lasts longer than one with a lower grade, like 200.
14. Traction Grade: Represents how well the tire performs on wet roads. Higher grades, like AA, indicate better performance and a shorter stopping distance.
15. Temperature Grade: The tire’s ability to resist heat, graded from A to C, with A being the most heat-resistant. This grade applies to tires used within their speed and load limits.

How to Identify Tesla Approved Tire?

You can identify a Tesla-approved tire by the “T-mark” specification on the tire’s sidewall (for example, T0, T1, T2).Tesla-approved tires are designed to work with your vehicle and optimize performance, safety, reliability, and durability. For more information about Tesla-approved replacement tires, refer to the Official Tesla Service Manual.

What Tire Brand to Buy For Tesla?

There isn’t a specific tire brand that you need to buy for Tesla, as long as the tire matches the dimensions and other special markings. However, when choosing tires for a Tesla, several factors such as performance, range, comfort, and noise levels should be considered. Here are some of the top tire brands and models that work well with Tesla vehicles:

1. Michelin
   • Pilot Sport 4S: Known for its excellent performance, handling, and longevity. Ideal for Tesla’s high-performance models like the Model S and Model 3 Performance.
   • Primacy MXM4: A great option for comfort and range, designed for quieter rides and longer-lasting tread, suitable for standard Tesla models like Model 3 and Model Y.
2. Pirelli
   • Cinturato P7 All Season: This tire offers a balance between performance and comfort, providing low rolling resistance for better range while maintaining handling.
   • Pirelli P-Zero: A high-performance tire often chosen for Tesla’s Performance models, offering excellent grip and handling.
3. Continental
   • ExtremeContact DWS 06: A high-performance all-season tire with good wet and dry performance, offering a quiet and comfortable ride.
   • EcoContact 6: Known for its low rolling resistance and excellent fuel efficiency, this tire is ideal for maximizing range.
4. Bridgestone
   • Turanza QuietTrack: Provides a quiet, comfortable ride with good all-season performance and longevity.
   • Potenza Sport: A high-performance tire with excellent handling and cornering stability, ideal for Tesla’s sportier models.
5. Goodyear
   • EfficientGrip Performance: Known for its low rolling resistance and good overall performance, helping to maximize Tesla’s range while providing comfort.
   • Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3: Offers excellent traction and handling in both dry and wet conditions.
6. Toyo
   • Proxes STIII: A good choice for performance, especially on the Tesla Model X, providing stability and comfort with decent range efficiency.

It’s essential to pick the right tire based on your Tesla model, driving style, and local climate conditions. For all-season performance and maximum range, Michelin and Pirelli are popular choices among Tesla owners.

Why Speed Ratings Matter

One important marking that should not be overlooked is the Speed Rating. Tesla vehicles, known for their high performance, require tires that can handle significant speeds while maintaining safety and stability. The speed rating of a tire indicates the maximum sustained speed at which it can safely operate. Selecting tires with the appropriate speed rating is crucial for both safety and performance, particularly for Tesla models that can reach higher speeds. Using a tire with a lower speed rating than recommended could compromise the handling and stability of your vehicle, especially at higher speeds.

Load Capacity and Pressure Requirements

Another crucial aspect to understand is the Load Index and Load Range markings. Tesla vehicles require tires that can support the weight of the car, along with any added weight from passengers, cargo, or towing. Tires with insufficient load capacity can lead to faster wear, overheating, or even failure, especially when driving on highways or during long trips. It’s equally important to maintain the correct tire pressure as indicated on the tire or in your Tesla’s manual. Under- or over-inflating can impact tire performance and safety, affecting handling and fuel efficiency.

The Role of Tire Construction

Tesla’s performance depends heavily on the Tire Construction. The “R” in the tire marking denotes radial ply construction, which offers better fuel efficiency and handling due to its flexible design. Radial tires are the most common type used in modern vehicles, including Teslas, and they are designed to improve road grip while also providing a comfortable ride. Understanding how this construction contributes to the tire’s overall performance will help you make a better decision when selecting tires that align with your driving needs.

Ensuring Compatibility with Tesla’s Advanced Systems

Tesla vehicles come equipped with advanced features such as Autopilot and traction control systems that rely on precise tire performance. Choosing the right tire ensures that these systems function optimally. The Tesla Approved Tire marking, such as T0, T1, or T2, indicates that the tire has been tested and validated by Tesla for compatibility with your vehicle’s unique requirements. It’s important to consider Tesla-approved tires when replacing your existing set to maintain the vehicle’s performance and safety features.

Tesla’s Cybertruck has become an automotive sensation, captivating fans and critics alike with its bold, stainless-steel design. Love it or hate it, the futuristic electric pickup refuses to blend in—and when celebrities like Lil Baby get their hands on it, the customization possibilities take center stage.

The 29-year-old rapper, Dominique Armani Jones (known as Lil Baby), recently added a Tesla Cybertruck to his impressive car collection, joining the ranks of celebrities embracing this electric powerhouse. Never one to settle for subtlety, Lil Baby gave his Cybertruck a complete aftermarket transformation, ensuring it turns even more heads than it does in its stock form.

A Bold New Look

• Glossy Red Wrap: The first thing you notice about Lil Baby’s Cybertruck is the vibrant glossy red wrap. Applied by Roadshow International, this custom job covers the entire exterior, including areas that typically feature contrasting black trim. The result is a uniform and striking look that redefines the truck’s industrial aesthetic.
• Forgiato Wheels: To complement the flashy wrap, Lil Baby equipped the truck with a new set of Forgiato alloys. While their bold design may not be everyone’s favorite, they certainly add an extra layer of customization to the truck’s already eye-catching profile.
• Privacy Windows: Dark-tinted windows complete the makeover, offering both privacy and a sleek touch that ties the modifications together.

The Cybertruck’s Unconventional Journey

Lil Baby’s Cybertruck even caught attention in an unlikely setting: a gas station. The sight of the electric pickup parked near a pump, with the rapper sitting on the roof, made for an amusing contrast. It’s a visual reminder of the Cybertruck’s dual identity as both a cutting-edge EV and a cultural symbol that transcends its utilitarian purpose.

Stock vs. Custom: The Ongoing Debate

Tesla designed the Cybertruck with minimalism in mind, emphasizing its raw, unpainted stainless-steel body and no-frills industrial vibe. While this aesthetic has its admirers, celebrity owners like Lil Baby clearly see the Cybertruck as a blank canvas for personal expression.

For purists, the glossy red wrap and aftermarket wheels might stray too far from the original design. Many believe the Cybertruck is best left untouched, with its stock silver panels and OEM wheels preserving its futuristic charm. However, as customization trends continue to grow, it’s clear the Cybertruck has found its place as a fashion statement for the rich and famous.

Pogledajte ovu objavu na Instagramu.

Objavu dijeli Forgiato Wheels (@forgiato)

What’s Your Take on Lil Baby’s Cybertruck?

So, where do you stand on Lil Baby’s bold reimagining of the Tesla Cybertruck? Does the glossy red wrap enhance its appeal, or do you prefer the original, unpainted aesthetic?

Tesla’s Cybertruck may divide opinions, but one thing is certain—it’s here to make waves, whether in its stock form or as a fully customized showpiece. Let us know your thoughts, and stay tuned to Tesla Fox for more celebrity rides and Tesla stories that push the boundaries of design and innovation.

A Loud and Proud Transformation

2 Chainz, whose real name is Tauheed K. Epps, recently showcased his modified Cybertruck on Instagram to his 12.8 million followers. His post gave fans a detailed glimpse at a ride that’s anything but subtle. Partnering with Roadshow International and Forgiato, the rapper turned Tesla’s minimalist pickup into a show-stopping machine.

• The Wrap: Roadshow International dressed the Cybertruck in a bold orange wrap, complemented by decals featuring a snarling wolf, evoking a predatory, aggressive vibe. The graphics channel high-performance energy reminiscent of muscle cars like the Dodge Hellcat, blending raw attitude with the Cybertruck’s electric edge.
• The Wheels: Forgiato provided custom wheels that stand out for their retro aesthetic. These alloy rims, styled to resemble spinning designs from the ’90s, encase orange brake calipers, continuing the vehicle’s audacious color scheme.
• Tinted Windows: To complete the look, dark-tinted windows were added, giving the Cybertruck a stealthy, celebrity-worthy vibe while maintaining privacy.

A Growing Trend in Cybertruck Customization

2 Chainz’s Cybertruck isn’t the only celebrity-owned example of this emerging trend. Another rap star, Lil Baby, also recently showcased his take on the electric pickup. While Lil Baby opted for a glossy red wrap and less flamboyant Forgiato wheels, both vehicles bear the unmistakable stamp of Roadshow International’s customization expertise.

Pogledajte ovu objavu na Instagramu.

Objavu dijeli 2 Chainz Aka Tity Boi (@2chainz)

The Debate: Stock vs. Modified

While these modifications capture attention, the Cybertruck’s futuristic, unadorned stainless-steel aesthetic remains iconic in its own right. Tesla’s design philosophy emphasizes a clean, utilitarian look, which many enthusiasts believe is hard to improve upon. However, with the Cybertruck’s angular design acting as a blank canvas, it’s clear that customization will continue to play a big role in its identity.

One undeniable upgrade area is the wheels. The right set of wheels can elevate the Cybertruck’s stance without compromising its futuristic appeal, and with a vast array of aftermarket options, finding the perfect match is a challenge owners seem eager to tackle.

Your Take on 2 Chainz’s Cybertruck

So, what do you think of 2 Chainz’s bold take on the Tesla Cybertruck? Does the orange wrap and retro wheels enhance its appeal, or do you prefer the original stainless-steel look? Let us know in the comments, and keep an eye on Tesla Fox for more updates on customized Teslas and their celebrity owners.

At this rate, the Cybertruck is quickly becoming a favorite among car enthusiasts and celebrities alike—proof that Tesla’s futuristic pickup is as much a style icon as it is a performance machine.

Tesla’s Lack of Transparency

Tesla remains one of the most secretive automakers when it comes to sharing delivery data for individual models. Its quarterly production and delivery reports group the Cybertruck with the Model S, Model X, and Tesla Semi under “other vehicles,” leaving fans and analysts guessing. However, a series of recalls has unintentionally shed light on Cybertruck production numbers.

Latest Delivery Numbers (2025)

• Analysts estimate Tesla has sold around 16,097 Cybertrucks in the first nine months of 2025, which averages to about 59 vehicles per day.
• Quarterly breakdown:
  • Q1 2025: approximately 6,406 units
  • Q2 2025: approximately 4,306 units
  • Q3 2025: approximately 5,385 units, a steep drop from more than 14,000 in Q3 2024
• This represents roughly a 38 percent decline in sales compared to the same nine-month period in 2024.
• Based on trends and momentum, several analysts expect full-year Cybertruck deliveries in 2025 to land around 20,000 units, far below Tesla’s early projections.

Safety Issues and Recall

• According to CNBC Tesla recalled 46,096 Cybertrucks manufactured between November 2023 and February 2025 due to a defect in an exterior trim panel (the cant rail) that can detach.
• Because Tesla doesn’t publish Cybertruck-specific production numbers, this recall offers one of the clearest indirect insights into how many Cybertrucks were built and likely delivered during that period.
• A later recall in 2025 affected a total of 63,619 Cybertrucks built between November 2023 and October 2025, revealing that Tesla has likely produced at least that many units to date.
• The defect stems from issues with structural adhesive, and Tesla offered free repairs at service centers.

Why Are Deliveries Falling?

1. Softening Demand
   • Despite intense early hype, demand for the Cybertruck appears to be cooling. The sharp drop in Q2 and Q3 deliveries supports this.
   • Reports also suggest Tesla has scaled back Cybertruck production targets, possibly reallocating manufacturing resources elsewhere.
2. Inventory Pressure
   • Tesla has built up inventory and introduced price discounts reportedly as high as 10,000 dollars in an effort to move unsold stock.
   • Some unsold Cybertrucks have reportedly been delivered to internal companies such as SpaceX and xAI.
3. Safety Concerns
   • The large recalls have likely dented consumer confidence. Having more than 46,000 vehicles recalled so early in the product’s life is significant.
   • At least one lawsuit has been filed in connection with a fatal Cybertruck crash, raising additional risk and public scrutiny.

What This Means for Tesla’s Cybertruck Ambitions

• Scaling Challenges: Tesla once had ambitions to reach hundreds of thousands of Cybertruck units per year. Current production and delivery levels fall far below those goals.
• Niche Positioning: Delivery numbers suggest the Cybertruck may become a niche product rather than a mass-market pillar.
• Reputation Risk: Recalls and quality concerns could damage long-term consumer perception of the Cybertruck, both as a functional pickup and as a symbol of Tesla’s innovation.

Estimated Total Cybertrucks Delivered to Date

Based on the latest recall covering 63,619 units built between November 2023 and October 2025, the most realistic estimate for total Cybertrucks delivered is approximately 63,600 units. Some may remain in inventory, but the majority are likely in customer hands, since broad recalls typically apply to delivered vehicles.ontinued scaling at Giga Texas, as Tesla works to meet the high demand driven by pre-orders.

Looking Ahead

While the Cybertruck’s delivery pace may seem modest compared to Tesla’s other vehicles, it’s important to remember that Tesla is still fine-tuning production for this highly unique vehicle. With its unconventional exoskeleton design and new manufacturing processes, scaling production has been a more complex challenge.

Tesla fans should also keep in mind that future recalls or production reports may provide further insights into Cybertruck numbers. Stay tuned to Tesla Fox for monthly updates as we continue tracking Tesla’s progress.

Have you spotted a Cybertruck or even received yours? Share your experience in the comments below!

This article will be updated each month with the latest Cybertruck delivery estimates based on available data.

What Are Crumple Zones?

Crumple zones are sections of a vehicle, usually at the front and rear, that are specifically designed to absorb the energy generated during a collision. These zones deform in a controlled way to reduce the force transferred to the vehicle’s occupants. By extending the time it takes for a crash to occur, crumple zones help reduce the impact’s severity, protecting the passengers inside. In traditional cars, crumple zones are often composed of lightweight materials that can absorb energy by folding or collapsing in a crash.

The Cybertruck’s Design

Tesla’s Cybertruck is built from ultra-hard 30X cold-rolled stainless steel, a material that CEO Elon Musk claims is incredibly strong and nearly indestructible. The same exoskeleton material is what led to its “bulletproof” marketing, adding a sense of invulnerability to the vehicle. However, this strong exterior poses a question about its ability to deform in the way traditional crumple zones do.

Traditional crumple zones are typically made from materials like aluminum or plastic composites, which are intentionally less rigid. The Cybertruck’s stainless steel exterior raises concerns about whether it can absorb impact effectively, as hard materials generally don’t crumple as easily as softer ones.

Tesla’s Approach to Safety

Despite the concerns, Tesla vehicles are renowned for their strong safety ratings, and it’s expected that the Cybertruck will incorporate similar safety technologies. For instance, Tesla employs various safety mechanisms such as:

1. Chassis Design: While the exterior may be incredibly strong, Tesla could design crumple zones into the underlying structure beneath the hardened shell, such as in the subframe or internal chassis.
2. Software: Tesla relies heavily on active safety features, which include automatic emergency braking, collision avoidance systems, and advanced sensors that detect and mitigate accidents before they occur. These features help reduce the need for traditional passive safety measures like crumple zones by preventing collisions in the first place.
3. Airbags and Structural Integrity: Tesla is likely to use strategically placed airbags and internal reinforcements to ensure passengers are protected during a crash, with the exoskeleton’s rigidity playing a role in maintaining cabin integrity.

So Does Tesla Cybertruck Have Crumple Zones?

In short answer YES, in long answer – while Tesla hasn’t provided explicit details on how the Cybertruck’s crumple zones work, it’s likely that Tesla will not forgo this important safety feature altogether. Instead, crumple zones may be embedded in the vehicle’s subframe or other internal components rather than the outer stainless steel shell. This would allow the Cybertruck to have an energy-absorbing capability without compromising its ultra-tough exterior design.

Here is the full video of Tesla Cybertruck crashtest.

While the Cybertruck is not intended for regular patrol duties, it is fully equipped to respond to emergencies and provide community assistance when necessary. For over three decades, IPD’s DARE officers have used distinctive, attention-grabbing vehicles to engage with students and raise awareness about drug prevention. The new Cybertruck continues this tradition, drawing attention and fostering conversations among the youth and the public.

Irvine’s DARE program is one of only two still active in California, highlighting the department’s commitment to educating students on the dangers of drug abuse. By incorporating unique vehicles like the Tesla Cybertruck, IPD aims to enhance its connection with the community and encourage positive interactions between law enforcement and the younger generation.

IPD has a history of employing innovative methods to engage the public, including officers on horseback and K9 units. These strategies, along with the introduction of the Cybertruck, are designed to start conversations and strengthen community relations.

The Irvine Police Department plans to host a series of pop-up events in the coming weeks, giving the public an opportunity to see the Cybertruck, take photos, and meet local officers.