Tesla has announced a new entry-level Cybertruck model that boasts a longer range and a lower price point than its predecessors. The latest addition to the Cybertruck lineup comes with a single rear-wheel drive (RWD) motor, a range of up to 350 miles on a single charge, and a price tag of $69,990 before the federal $7,500 credit. This makes it the cheapest Cybertruck model yet, but Tesla has had to make some significant compromises to achieve this price cut.

One of the most notable omissions from the new RWD Cybertruck is the powered roll-up hard tonneau cover, a feature that was previously standard on all Cybertruck models. Instead, customers can opt for a $750 fitted soft tonneau cover, which Tesla claims provides an aerodynamic range boost of 12 miles. The towing capacity of the RWD model has also been reduced to 7,500 lbs, compared to 11,000 lbs on the all-wheel drive (AWD) model.

In addition to the tonneau cover and towing capacity, the RWD Cybertruck also lacks several other features that are standard on the AWD model. These include adaptive suspension, 120V and 240V power outlets, and a rear seat infotainment touchscreen. The interior of the RWD model comes with textile seats instead of the leatherette ones found in the other models. Furthermore, the RWD Cybertruck accelerates slower than the AWD model, going from 0-60mph in 6.2 seconds compared to 4.1 seconds.

This new RWD model is not the same as the one Tesla announced at its 2023 delivery event, which had a lower advertised range of 250 miles and a price tag of $60,990. That model was never released, and the RWD base option was removed from the lineup in 2024. The new RWD model is available for order in the US, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia.

Tesla's decision to introduce a more affordable Cybertruck model comes as the company faces challenges in selling the vehicle. According to reports, Tesla sold only 50,000 units in 2024, despite having over one million reservations. The company is also experiencing a 13 percent drop in vehicle sales year over year, which can be partly attributed to CEO Elon Musk's involvement in the Trump Administration's "Department of Government Efficiency."

The introduction of this new RWD Cybertruck model may help Tesla to revitalize sales and attract more customers to the electric pickup truck market. However, the compromises made to achieve the lower price point may deter some buyers who are looking for a more feature-rich vehicle. As the electric vehicle market continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Tesla's strategy plays out and how customers respond to this new offering.