Tesla Cybertruck, Closer to Chinese Roads, Tesla’s electric pickup truck
Tesla’s electric pickup truck, the Cybertruck, is inching closer to Chinese roads. The US automaker recently secured energy consumption homologation from China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT). This regulatory approval is a significant milestone, though not a guaranteed green light for immediate sales.
Key details from the MIIT filing:
- Range and Efficiency: The Cybertruck is certified with a range of 618 kilometers (384 miles) and an energy consumption of 22.6 kWh per 100 kilometers. This translates to an estimated cost of around $2 per 100 kilometers.
- Powertrain: The truck boasts three electric motors, delivering a combined peak output of 650 kilowatts.
- Weight and Dimensions: The Cybertruck tips the scales at a hefty 3,104 kilograms and is classified as an M1 passenger vehicle in China.
Regulatory Hurdles and Future Outlook:
While the energy consumption homologation is a positive development, several challenges remain before the Cybertruck can hit Chinese roads.
- Vehicle Classification: Pickup trucks aren’t traditionally classified as passenger vehicles in China, which could limit their market potential.
- Safety Standards: Tesla may need to make modifications to the Cybertruck’s design to comply with China’s stringent pedestrian safety regulations.
Despite these hurdles, Tesla’s recent regulatory filings and Elon Musk’s previous comments suggest that the company is actively working to bring the Cybertruck to the Chinese market. As the electric vehicle landscape continues to evolve, the Cybertruck’s potential entry into China could have significant implications for both Tesla and the broader automotive industry.
