Tesla's Cybertruck, while visually striking and technologically advanced, has faced scrutiny regarding its driving range. Independent tests have revealed that the actual range can fall short of Tesla's official claims. To address this concern, the automaker has introduced a range-extender battery pack.
The range-extender battery pack offers a significant boost to the Cybertruck's range, adding an additional 245 kilometers. However, this upgrade comes at a substantial cost. Priced at $105 per kilometer, the pack can be expensive for those seeking to maximize their vehicle's range.
Furthermore, the range-extender battery pack occupies a significant portion of the Cybertruck's bed space. This trade-off between range and cargo capacity might be a deal-breaker for some owners who rely on the truck's bed for hauling purposes.
The Cybertruck's base range varies depending on the specific configuration. The top-spec tri-motor Cyberbeast, despite its impressive performance, has been found to have a range of 402 kilometers, falling short of Tesla's claimed 484 kilometers. The dual-motor, all-wheel drive Cybertruck offers a slightly improved claimed range of 512 kilometers, but this still falls well below the 805 kilometers that Tesla once suggested certain versions would be capable of achieving.
For Cybertruck owners who prioritize long-distance travel and wish to avoid frequent charging, the range-extender battery pack presents a viable solution. Tesla claims that the pack can increase the range to 756 kilometers for the AWD model, and to 708 kilometers for the Cyberbeast.
Although Tesla hasn't disclosed the exact capacity of the range-extender battery, estimates suggest it has around 47 kWh of usable storage, which could equate to a weight between 250 and 272 kilograms.
Customers can currently place a $500 deposit to reserve a range-extender battery pack, but production is not expected to begin until early 2025. Additionally, installation must be carried out by a Tesla service center, eliminating the possibility of DIY installation.
Tesla's range-extender battery pack offers a compelling solution for Cybertruck owners seeking to extend their vehicle's range. However, the significant cost and trade-off in terms of bed space make it a decision that must be carefully considered.