Tesla is Dropping a Bargain Version of the Cybertruck

Tesla is Dropping a Bargain Version of the Cybertruck

Tesla has officially pivoted the Cybertruck from a six-figure status symbol to a functional workhorse, launching a new Dual-Motor All-Wheel Drive (AWD) entry-level model priced at $59,990. This aggressive $20,000 price cut follows a brutal 2025 fiscal year where Cybertruck sales plummeted 48% to just 20,237 units. 

To achieve this sub-$60k price point, Tesla has stripped the previous Luxe Package, replacing the discontinued Rear-Wheel Drive with a new model that offers a more rugged, simplified interior and a 325-mile range, designed to compete directly with work-ready versions of the Ford F-150 Lightning.

Why was the Luxe Package discontinued?

Tesla has introduced a new entry-level Cybertruck priced at $59,990, making it the most affordable version to date. This dual-motor all-wheel-drive model offers an estimated 325 miles of range and includes features like a powered tonneau cover and bed power outlets (2x 120V, 1x 240V). 

The price cut comes alongside a reduction in the top-tier Cyberbeast model’s starting price from $114,990 to $99,990, and the discontinuation of the Luxe Package with the Rear-Wheel Drive Cybertruck Long Range, which previously included Supervised Full Self-Driving and free Supercharger access. 

The strategic move follows modest sales in 2025, where only 20,237 units were sold in the U.S., well below Elon Musk’s earlier projections of 250,000 units annually. It reflects Tesla’s effort to position the Cybertruck as a more accessible, working-man’s vehicle rather than a luxury statement.

Key Features of the Latest Cybertruck

Tesla’s latest Dual Motor AWD Cybertruck model retains the core utility features of earlier models, while trimming premium elements to lower the cost. 

  • Powertrain & Performance: Dual-Motor AWD with 325-mile EPA-estimated range, 4.1-second 0-60 mph acceleration, and 7,500 lb towing capacity. 
  • Suspension & Handling: Features coil springs with adaptive damping (replacing adaptive air suspension), steer-by-wire, and four-wheel steering for enhanced maneuverability. 
  • Bed & Utility: Equipped with a 6’ x 4’ composite bed, motorized tonneau cover, 2x 120V and 1x 240V outlets, and full Powershare capability to power tools or a home during outages. 
  • Interior: Durable tactical grey textile seats (first-row only), 7-speaker audio system, and no rear entertainment display or ambient lighting. No L-Tracks in the bed. 
  • Key Omissions: No adaptive air suspension, no adjustable ride height, no ventilated front seats, no rear display, and no cabin 120V outlets (power is bed-only). 
  • Pricing & Positioning: The new version replaces the discontinued RWD model and offers a significant functionality upgrade at a sub-$60,000 price point.

What impact will the price cut have on Cybertruck sales?

The new pricing strategy aims to revive slowing Cybertruck sales, which plunged 48% in 2025 to 20,237 units, far below Elon Musk’s 250,000-unit annual target. With quarterly sales now around 5,000 units and high inventory levels, Tesla aims to attract cost-conscious buyers and expand market reach. 

The move makes the Cybertruck $20,000 cheaper than the previous entry-level model and reverses earlier price hikes. Despite remaining above conventional trucks like the Ford F-150 ($39,330), the cut positions the Cybertruck as a more competitive electric option. 

Analysts suggest that Tesla must reach lower price points to scale production, as demand at $100,000+ is limited. The company previously sold only ~60,000 Cybertrucks since launch, reinforcing the need for broader appeal.

How does reduced towing capacity affect usability?

The 7,500 lb towing capacity on the new $59,990 Cybertruck is sufficient for most common towing needs, including small to medium travel trailers, boats, and campers. Real-world tests show the Cybertruck efficiently towing ~7,500 lb trailers with 115-160 miles of range, depending on terrain and driving conditions. 

However, the reduction from 11,000 lb limits is used for heavy-duty applications like large fifth-wheel or gooseneck trailers, multiple-vehicle hauls, and commercial construction or farming equipment.

The lower capacity is likely due to suspension, tire ratings (Load Range D), and thermal management during braking, especially on steep descents where regenerative braking can diminish. For light to moderate towing, the 7,500 lb limit has minimal impact, but heavy haulers will need the higher-tier models.

Bottom Line

This $59,990 entry-level model is a survival tactic designed to salvage a 48% sales decline and transform the Cybertruck from a niche “tech bro” trophy into a functional, albeit basic, work truck that can actually compete with the Ford F-150 Lightning. 

By stripping the Cybertruck of its luxury “bells and whistles,” dropping the air suspension, premium interior, and bundled FSD, Tesla has finally brought the vehicle closer to its original 2019 price promise.

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