2025 IIHS Tesla Cybertruck Updated Crash Test Video

 

2025 IIHS Tesla Cybertruck 

Updated Crash Test Video

 

2028 CyberTruck Design Reference

I recently wrote an article named "When Will Tesla Launch CyberVAN/CyberSUV: A vehicle that can resurrect the Cyber Platform." This article delineated and showcased a new CyberSUV/VAN which I believe Tesla is likely to unveil soon.

That article really made me think about what the next step will likely be after that vehicle is launched, and a few days later I wrote a follow-up story named: "Thoughts On The Future of Autonomous Vehicles: The Shape of Things to Come: Part 2: 2030 Predictions, CyberVAN Autonomous Tesla Transport Design Concept by Jake Ehrlich." I am extremely proud of that article as I genuinely believe it offers an amazing modular design opportunity for Tesla, which I think could be extremely successful, as far as an ultimate CyberVAN design. This made me think, "If Tesla comes out with a completely autonomous VAN, wouldn't it make sense to do the same think by replacing the current CyberTruck model with one that also lacks a steering wheel, as well as forward facing front seats? This article shows my idea of what I believe such a vehicle will look like.

This 2028 CyberTruck is designed to overcome all the challenges and limitations of the original CyberTruck, so for instance it has a pass through bed gate, that can access the cabin. There is no tonneau cover to block the rear view camera. This is a Truck designed to behave and perform 100% as a truck. Even though the original CyberTruck has a 4x6 bed, the bed on this model could be extended inward to accommodate 4x8 panels with the tailgate closed.

I would argue the current CyberTruck is far more of a hybrid SUV/Truck, than an actual truck, and this new model is designed to be just a truck. My design kind of reminds me of a vintage Chevrolet El Camino.

Since it has a normal bed, it's easy to access all around, unlike the CyberTruck, and in with the last image above it features an optional Camper Shell. My design reference above is identical in height, length and width to the Current CyberTruck.

My personal preference would be my CyberVAN design for certain, but I think there is and will continue to be a large addressable market for customers who LOVE trucks with flatbeds in the back, and that is what this version would be for. Ironically, it could share far more that 90% of it's components with the CyberVAN, but just be a different option…

If you look closely, this version of the CyberTruck I designed only has one door, which is pretty large and wide, which seems to add to its simplicity. I think the design looks so cool, and I like the simplicity of the single door so much, I could see how such a design profile might be better than my original CyberVAN design, which had two doors on each side. In other words, since the silhouette is so similar, I could see my original CyberVAN having the single door and overall silhouette of this vehicle, which looks so cool, practical and simple.

Tesla Cancels RWD CyberTuck

 

Tesla Finally Cancels RWD CyberTuck

Good Riddance, To Bad Rubbish

Tesla cancelled the Rear Wheel Drive CyberTruck, and I say, good riddance, to bad rubbish!!! Coming out with such a joke of a vehicle was probably Tesla's greatest blunder to date, right up there with the Fabergé egg Falcon Wing Doors on the Model X. If you are a reader of Jake's Tesla World, you may already be familiar with my review of the specs for the 2WD CyberTruck, I published back in April named "My Take on the New Rear Wheel Drive CyberTruck: A HUGE & PATHETIC Step Backward." In that detailed article I delineated in great detail, how and why Tesla poured gasoline all over the CyberTruck fire by introducing such a pathetically stripped down model.

I want to set the record straight. I am the president of the Tesla Fan Club. I believe Teslas are the best cars ever made, and I strongly believe the CyberTruck is by far and away the best designed vehicle ever brought to market. That beings said, Tesla made many blunderous mistakes with the launch of the CyberTruck. First and foremost, they overpromised and underdelivered. Why? For what reason??? They got greedy and overconfident, and instead of investing ahead of the curve, they ended up driving it into the ground. 

Tesla could have EASILY delivered on every Cybertruck promise—price, range, everything. With over a million preorders, sticking to the original $39,900-$69,900 prices could’ve led to 300,000+ sales instead of just 46,000. At an average of $54,000 per truck, that’s $16 billion in revenue, not the $4 billion from selling fewer at $86,000 each. That’s $12 billion missed! They’d own the EV truck market, keep customers thrilled, and maintain huge demand, making up for any short-term profit hit with massive long-term success.

That's the bad news, and so much for looking in the rear-view mirror. The great news is I am certain Tesla can recover from these EPIC blunders, and here is how:

It's Time to Simplify The CyberTruck

First, discontinue the CyberBeast, which is unnecessary and accounts for less than 10% of sales and production. The front motor in the CyberBeast is always engaged, causing excessive noise and vibration. In contrast, the AWD CyberTuck has the rear motor always engaged, resulting in significantly reduced noise.

Similar to the Plaid Model S and X, the CyberBeast is a cash grab that prioritizes symbolism over substance—appealing to those with more dollars than sense. Tesla should focus on delivering great value and delight, not on flashy, impractical performance that no one truly needs or uses. It’s ironic these overpriced 'Plaid' and 'Beast' models perform best when using Full Self-Driving (FSD), which actually slows them down significantly. 

Tesla should make one vehicle named the CyberTruck. Focus on optimizing every aspect of its performance, luxury, and range. In other words, I am certain Tesla can get the 0-60 MPH down to 3.5 seconds in the AWD, and I am certain they can boost the range to 500 miles—easily. 

This is what people want—not a stripped-down 'Where's the beef' CyberMut with cloth seats, or an external battery in the bed that destroys 1/3 of the bed capacity!?!!

Tesla should work on upgrading the interior of the CyberTruck by fixing the ultra-HORRIBLE rearview mirror system and enhancing the interior by adding massage seats. So long as the CyberTruck is sold with a steering wheel, add back the turning indicator stalk and add a screen in front of the steering wheel like the current S and X have.

Also, if you have watched the evolution of all Tesla models on Tesla.com in relation to vehicle ordering options, you will notice they have kept simplifying and limiting options, and discontinuing the Plaid models and Beast would be a natural extension of this logic...Simplify, Simplify, Simplify...

No Such Thing as Free Supercharging 

Here is what Elon and Tesla don't get: The reason why people want a CyberTruck is because they want the best truck ever made, and I believe they are willing to pay for it. As an example, if Tesla offered a 500-mile range CyberTruck with a turning stalk and a screen above the steering wheel, along with massage seats, I would gladly pay $100K for it. What I don't want is to have a 'Luxe' package crammed down my throat, that costs an extra $15K, that includes FSD prepaid for 6.5 years, along with 'Free' Supercharging I will never use. 

I don't know what the actual metrics are for 'free' supercharging utilization, but I am certain it has long been a profit center for Tesla. In other words, on the multiple Tesla models I have owned, that came with 'free' supercharging, I probably used less than $1000 worth of electricity, as I typically charge at home, as do the vast majority of customers. Tesla knows this, but apparently thinks we are stupid. Also, the 'Free' Supercharging is only extended to the original owner, and is not included when the car is resold, so if you buy a Tesla today with 'free' lifetime supercharging, you essentially pay $5k for it, but if you sell or trade in the car a year or two later, that $5K you paid disappears. 

I've said it before, and I will say it again, I believe the CyberTruck is the best car ever made in the world to date, but the real question, is it the best version of itself, and the answer is no. Tesla ran the ball down to the 2-yard line and stopped, which was a terrible mistake. My advice to Tesla is to make the CyberTruck the absolute best version it can be of itself and leave it at that.

If you want to learn much more about my thoughts on the future of Tesla and the Cyber Platform, just continue on and check out the next three stories that I published before this one.

CyberEvolution From CyberTruck to CyberVAN

 CyberEvolution

From CyberTruck to CyberVAN 

Design Concept by JAKE EHRLICH

I have been on a roll with imagineering the future of Tesla's Cyber Platform, and it dawned on me I should create a simple graphic that shows how I believe the form factor will/should evolve from CyberTruck in 2024 up through the CyberVAN which I believe Tesla will soon launch, and then two years further into my design reference for a CyberVAN sans steering wheel and front facing front seats, and here it is:

On the CyberTruck I took the liberty of adding my JAKEe rear sail panel, which I think makes the CyberTruck look a million times better. I came up with the idea to do that and published it 6 years ago, and ever since then have thought adding that element makes the CyberTruck look complete.

Another reason I was compelled to complete this graphic, beside it looking really cool, is it shows that both my 2026 and 2028 CyberVAN concept designs are profoundly identical in height, length, width and wheelbase to the current CyberTruck, and thus I assume would cost about the same amount to manufacture.

Back in 2022 Elon Musk Tweeted "Maybe Tesla should make a highly configurable RoboVan for people and cargo?" Musk also hinted that a RoboVan would be bigger than a Model X when he attended a Tesla Owners of Silicon Valley confab, and on an earnings call he said "Tesla is definitely going to make an electric van at some point."

On October 10, 2024 Tesla showed off their Robovan concept at an event named "We Robot", which is super cool and designed to carry up to 20 passengers as seen below. I think the Tesla Robovan is awesome, but much larger than most families would want, need or require. Also, since my CyberVAN is identical to a CyberTruck in length, width, height and wheelbase, it could be parked in a standard garage, where the RoboVAN definitely could NOT be parked in a standard size home garage. I created the graphic below which shows the scale difference in between my Tesla CyberVAN concept (front), and Tesla's RoboVAN (rear).

Update: September 27, 2025: I recently started noticing these new FedEx electric delivery vans all over the place, an could not help but notice the silhouette is very similar to the RoboVAN pictured above.

I couldn't resist the temptation to see what my CyberVan would look like beside the FedEx Electric Delivery can, so I created this graphic. By the way, I think the new FedEx deliver van looks AMAZING!!!!!

The 2026 Tesla Cyber SUV?

When Will Tesla Launch

CyberVAN/CyberSUV

A vehicle that can resurrect the Cyber Platform

I cannot emphasize strongly enough how significant this revelation is. It appears that the truth about this enigmatic vehicle is about to be revealed, and if not, it should be developed and brought to market as soon as possible. Why? Everything wrong with the CyberTruck is right with the CyberVan.

This CyberVAN surpasses the CyberTruck in every way, shape, and form, delivering far more on its promise than the CyberTruck itself. Moreover, it successfully addresses and overcomes every drawback and shortcoming of the CyberTruck. Tesla’s introduction of this new form factor also presents an opportunity for them to not only reinvent the CyberTruck but also rectify the mistakes, failed promises, and delayed launch of the CyberTruck, while exceedingly delivering on their original Cyber platform promises. I would go so far as to say when history looks back on this time, it will be recognized that the CyberTruck was a beta test for the CyberVan.

Initially, I thought Tesla’s recently leaked vehicle from Tesla Master Plan 4 might be a Cyber SUV. However, after examining the leaked image and taking a closer look, I believe it might be a CyberVan with sliding doors! To illustrate this concept, I’ve created a graphic depicting what a Tesla CyberVan with sliding doors might look like (as pictured above). I find it to be extremely intriguing and compelling! Please note that ll my renderings of a CyberVAN make it IDENTICAL in all dimensions to a standard CyberTruck, so it's the exact same length, width and height, and would essentially be identical in every way with the exception sliding doors and rear wagon form factor.

Above, we get a glimpse of what an upcoming Tesla CyberVan might look like. Below, we see it as a Tesla CyberSUV with doors that could be either traditional swinging doors or sliding doors. Personally, I would prefer powered sliding mini-van-style doors, which would truly make it a complete replacement for the Model X.

My Dream Tesla SUV is a LUCID

Kind of, Sort of, but not really...

Sophia Loren once famously and profoundly quipped "You can't have it all—at the same time." My understanding is she wasn't saying you can't have it all. She was just saying, you can't have everything perfect at the same time, and that is kind of what this story reminds me of.

I originally published this story back on May 16, of 2025, and it was titled "What I Want in a 2026 Tesla Model X", and I included the original story lower down in this story to add context. 

Today, I watched the video review of the new LUCID GRAVITY SUV reviewed by MKBHD (seen below), and I couldn’t help but think, “That car is almost exactly what I want in an SUV. However, it sadly lacks Tesla FSD, which is a major dealbreaker for me. I would love it even more if there were built-in screens in the backs of the front seats instead of the lower single screen that all Teslas have.”  

In essence, I would like Tesla to replace the Model X with a form-factor similar to the LUCID vehicle depicted above. My preference would even extend to the idea of having sliding rear doors, reminiscent of a mini-van.

Maybe My Dream Tesla SUV May Come True?

Something really interesting and unusual just occurred when Tesla apparently leaked a potential new Cyber SUV or CyberVan in the screenshot pictured below which was originally discovered and published by Torquenews.com. 

This is a screenshot from a Tesla video that revealed their Tesla Master Plan 4, which came out a few days ago. Notice in the background, up on a shelf, we see small scale models of what definitely appear to be a Tesla CyberSUV or CyberVAN people mover.

In a recent interview on Jay Leno’s Garage, Tesla lead designer Franz von Holzhausen discussed the recently updated Tesla Plaid Model S. He casually mentioned, in what appears to be an off-hand remark, Tesla has been working on several new products that evolve their design language and should be released soon. This raises the question: is he referring to the Tesla CyberSUV or CyberVAN pictured above?

On a side note, this is a good interview, but Jay Leno's SOFTBALL QUESTIONS on the new Model S PLAID are TOTALLY LAME. The first question I would have asked, is "How is it the new Model S Plaid is $110K before taxes, and still lacks a power FRUNK?????? After all, the $80K CyberTruck comes standard with a power frunk?"

In my recent review of the newly updated Model S and X I point out how disappointed I am that what historically were the most technologically advanced vehicles on earth, have NOT added any real or meaningful innovation in years.

Flat Roof Top CyberSUV would make it easy to put a folding Camper shell on top. I think this render is very close to the one seen in the Tesla design studio.

I can't help but wonder if the Tesla Cyber SUV concepts  pictured above and below is what Franz was talking about, when he said Tesla would soon be introducing new products? If Tesla introduces this vehicle soon, it would likely overcome the two Achilles heal issues that currently plague the CyberTruck, which are Low Range with only 325 miles, and a horrendous/nonsensical rear view mirror system. 

If the second and third row of seats in this vehicle were designed in such a way that they could easily fold flat like in the new Chinese market only Tesla Model YL, it would result in a much larger usable bed area than a CyberTruck. For instance, it should be able to hold 4x8 sheets of plywood easily, without having to stick out the back, where the CyberTruck bed is only 4x6 feet. If done correctly, this could also create a huge sleeping area in the back for camping, which can't be done in the CyberTruck.

Pictured above we see a photo of the second and third row seats in the Chinese market only Tesla Model YL, which are folded down. If the Tesla CyberVan has a similar seating configuration, it would open up a world of opportunities for storage and camping.

The CyberTruck uses a video camera on the back of the CyberTruck that easily becomes unusable when it drives in rain, but a CyberSUV could use a real standard rear view mirror, like a Model S, 3, X or Y does. Also, if this vehicle were to have at least 400 miles of range, that would make it infinitely better. 500 miles of range would be far more ideal, and I think that is within the realm of possibility.

As a designer, I seriously can't figure out what the hell happened to Tesla design recently. Yes, the Model Y, is amazing, and the best selling car on earth, but the S and X and CyberTruck have had no love over the past year and a half or more. 

My intuition suggests that Tesla has a secret weapon up its sleeve, and my best guess is that they will soon launch the CyberSUV or CyberVan. These vehicles will essentially be CyberTrucks, but instead of a bed with a sliding tonneau cover, they will feature a lift-back with a large third-row seat. 

If Tesla designs this vehicle well, it will also provide owners with a convenient way to camp in their vehicle. 

Additionally, with its flat roof, it will allow them to easily set up a large foldable tent on top if they wish.    

After I wrote this story I noticed the image below that shows a Urander Tent on top of a CyberTruck, along with the support system that creates a flat top surface for the tent to rest upon and I would not help but notice it's profile/silhouette/shape was remarkably similar to the one pictured above.

Just for fun, I made the following renders that would show what my now classic JAKEe CyberTruck Wrap style might look like on the CyberSUV, and it looks pretty good. I wrapped the bottom and extended the window to give it more of a dramatic and framed look.

I couldn't make up my mind which way I liked the window shape better, so I tried both ways: I think the version above with the added window wrap extension make it look more like a police truck, and the version below looks more modern, directional and geometrical.

Below is my original article I mentioned earlier (Originally published in May of 2025) on what I want in an ultimate Tesla SUV, that ideally will replace their Model X:

What I Want In a 2026 Tesla Model X

In the past I've written about how I would love to see a Tesla CyberVan based upon the Model X platform.

Below is an image I put together that shows what I was hoping we will see with the next generation Tesla Model X. This vehicle can comfortably seat 6 passengers, or could also come in a seven seater model. This Model X is 1.5 feet longer than the current Model X in order to accommodate the third row occupants by giving them plenty of legroom. It also replaces the ridiculously ill-designed Falcon wing doors with sliding rear side doors like you would find a standard minivan.

NOTE: Just for frame-of-reference I am adding this paragraph and the hero shot below from the beginning of this story, as it appears Tesla might essentially make my dream SUV or VAN, but using the CyberTruck design language, which would be awesome!!!

I would like to see this model feature 4-wheel steering like the CyberTruck, which should result in an overall decreased turning radius when compared to the current standard wheelbase Model X, along with bi-directional charging and steer-by-wire. Tesla is planning on coming out with a revised new Model S and X pretty soon, and I hope they make these updates. Also, I hope wireless charing will be standard on the new Tesla Models.

This is essentially like a Model X had a baby with a CyberTruck. While a current Model X can accommodate 2 adults in the front, the back seats are too narrow and too close to the doors, so they feel claustrophobic. 

The current 6 seater is nice as it has the center walkway located between the 2 rear captains chairs, but the third row seats only work for small children. By making an elongated Model X, with a much larger third row seats, which could comfortably accommodate 2 or 3 adults, would be ideal, and would also add much more rear cargo space.

Li Auto Figured it out with their new i8

After I wrote this entire article, I discovered that the Chinese company, Li Auto had essentially taken the Tesla Model X to the next level and perfected it. The Chinese Li Auto i8 is pictured below next to a Tesla Model X. 

As we see in the image below, the i8 is basically a longer Model X, which a wagon back that increases cargo space and ads a much larger and useful third row that can comfortably sit 2 adults. Also, the Li Auto has a more cab forward design, which contributes to its useful cabin space area. Overall the Li Auto i8 is:

Tesla Model X  dimensions v. Li Auto i8

Length: Li i8 is 1.9 inches (~5 cm) longer.

Width: The Model X is 1.5 inches (~4cm) wider without mirrors. 

Height: Li i8 is 2.2 inches (~5.6 cm) taller (offering better headroom).

Wheelbase Li i8 is 5.5 inches (~14 cm) longer. 

I find it to be embarrassing that a Chinese company could essentially copy the Model X and make it way better, but Tesla themselves are stuck on stupid and can't figure out how to easily improve the Model X? I mean this is NOT rocket science...Also, Tesla seriously needs to get rid of the falcon wing door, which are a complete nightmare. Yes, they make it easier to put a small child in their child seat, but they are are ridiculously overpriced and unnecessary, and often function incorrectly, not to mention they are a hazard in many ways.

As we see in the image of i8 interior below, it can comfortably fit 6 full sized adults.

If Tesla is going to keep producing the Model X, they need to completely redesign it from the ground up. If they were to do so, it would make complete sense to make it similar in all dimensions to the Li Auto i8, but swap out the doors with sliding mini-van style doors.

I recently took this photo of this Toyota Sienna Hybrid minivan, and essentially it's pretty close to what I would love to see Tesla make a similar model to as far as form-factor, as it has rear side doors that slide open and closed.

The upcoming LUCID GRAVITY really does kind of look like the Toyota Sienna Minivan pictured above, but way cooler, and it features 4 wheel steering, but for me it's not an option as it lacks FSD. If it had Tesla FSD, I would buy it.

The space for larger Luxury EV SUV's is heating up, and below we see the soon to market South Korean Genesis GV90 made by Hyundai, which looks pretty damed cool. This design also makes it evident that within 5 years, this form-factor with forward facing front seats with a steering wheel will essentially become obsolete, as vehicle form-factor will transform into an autonomous pod on wheels, and then the seats will offer much more extended leg room. If you look at the image below, if somebody was sitting in the front seat when it is reversed like this, their legs will interfere with the person sitting across from them, but if the form-factor were elongated by several feet, this issue would be resolved.

The following is excerpted from an article I published 5 years ago on TeslaMagazine.org titled "Thoughts on the future of Autonomous Vehicles." This section illustrates exactly what I am referring to with the future form-factors of autonomous EV's with wireless charging:

Just to be crystal-clear, my point is automobile form-factors as we have known them for more than the past century with front facing front seats will soon become obsolete and will be replaced with vehicles that have rear facing front seats, are 100% autonomous and feature wireless charing. My assumption is within about 5-7 years, this new form-factor will completely replace vehicles as we have known them. Keep in mind what you are about to read below, I published 5 years ago:

I just completed a fascinating https://t.co/3G7FUCfdyF story which showcases and discusses Tesla’s potentially upcoming CyberVan and/or CyberSUV: https://t.co/LjqxrIQbEI pic.twitter.com/PUInCV9cvm

— Jake Ehrlich (@JakeEhrlich) September 6, 2025

ONE MORE THANG

Sawyer Merritt is my favorite Tesla analyst and journalist, so when he responded with his comment on my story on the "CyberTruck Owners Only" Facebook Group, it made my day. I included Sawyers comment below:

I wrote a detailed response to Sawyer and decided to include it below, as I think it reiterates the essence of my argument for the value proposition behind a Tesla CyberVAN:

Hi Sawyer! 

Thanks for sharing your kind and insightful words. I have long been a fan of your work and amazing research, so I was pleasantly surprised to see your erudite comment. I agree with everything you said, and in my detailed article on TeslaMagazine.org, I mentioned that a CyberVAN with sliding doors could not only resurrect the Cyber Platform, but could also deliver on the original promise of the CyberTruck itself.

Specifically:

-BED STORAGE SPACE: The CyberTruck bed is only 4 x 6 feet, thus it can’t fit a 4 x 8 sheet of plywood or drywall in the bed with the lift gate closed, but a CyberVan could easily fit 4 x 8 sheets as there is no pass-through barrier and nothing to interfere with them.

-CAMPING: Users can’t camp in the CyberTruck as the bed is too small, and most importantly, the bed is not heated or cooled like the cabin of every other Tesla. With the CyberVAN, not only would you have HVAC access to fresh, warm, or cool air, but you could fit a much longer mattress in the back for sleeping. Not to mention, sleeping in a CyberVAN in public places would be much safer and quieter than sleeping in a tent on top of a CyberTruck. Also, the owners would not have to climb up a ladder to reach the tent on top of a CyberTruck. 

-REAR SEAT COMFORT: The CyberTruck is limited to 5 passengers, but the CyberVAN could comfortably seat 8, or even 9 with a front bench seat. Tesla could even make an extended wheelbase model that could fit a total of 12, like a Suburban. The rear seats in the CyberTruck are fixed and cannot recline at all, so for long rides, since they are fixed in a completely upright position, they can get uncomfortable. A CyberVAN could easily allow the second row seats to recline, and even so with the third row of seats.

-NO MORE DEFECTIVE REAR VIEW MIRROR: The design of the CyberTruck rear view mirror system is completely defective. If you drive a CyberTruck on a normal rainy day, the rear camera will easily and regularly get covered so it becomes useless as it will get covered with dirty water that gets kicked up onto the rear camera lens. It’s beyond ironic that the CyberTruck has a washer on the front camera but not on the back camera, where it needs it most. Personally, I am shocked that Tesla has not addressed this by putting a digital rear view mirror in the vehicle with a top mounted rear camera. This would be an easy fix, but as a designer myself, I am extremely frustrated with the fact that Tesla designed such a great vehicle with the CyberTruck, but then seemingly abandoned it by making zero meaningful improvements on it after a year and a half. Ironically, the beauty of a CyberVAN is that it could use a conventional mirrored rear view mirror which should function properly.

-RANGE: Tesla made a HUGE mistake by only putting in a 325-mile range battery. At a minimum, it should have been 400 or 500, as originally promised. That external battery pack that was $15K and destroyed 1/3 of the bed space was an insult to Tesla customers, but with a CyberVAN and the newest 4680 batteries, Tesla could easily hit 400 miles of range, if not 500, which would be ideal.

-NO FALCON WING DOORS: Even Elon admitted the Falcon Wing doors on the Model X were his greatest blunder. I think it’s shocking they still sell the X with these highly defective doors, which are a complete nightmare to live with in the real world. Elon’s original argument for the Falcon Wing Doors was that they would make it easy to remove and place small children in child seats, especially if a car parked too close to your Model X.  So try opening a Falcon Wing door on a taller sidewalk, and try not to have it hit your head or face, even IF it extends all the way. With mini-van style doors on a CyberVAN, it will completely eliminate this challenge. Basically, a CyberVAN would replace the Model X as the ultimate Tesla station wagon for families.

-POWER FRUNK: How ironic is it  the $80K CyberTruck has a power frunk, but the new flagship  Model S and Model X, which are way more expensive, lack this very useful feature? I agree with you that Tesla should keep all the features the CyberTruck offers with the CyberVAN. Franz is a really great designer in many ways, so he has to have been up to something over the past couple of years beyond refreshing the S, 3, X, and Y. Since he has completely ignored updating the CyberTruck, I assume he has been focused on the CyberVAN, which would explain what he was talking about in the recent Jay Leno video interview, when he said he was working on extending Tesla’s design language.

Also, if you take a really close look at the screenshot from the Tesla Master Plan 4 video that shows the models in Franz’s design studio, if you look at them closely, it almost appears they have a longer sliding rear side door.

Many larger families would benefit from a CyberVAN, but I think there are many people who would simply prefer its form factor, as minivans are so useful and utilitarian, not to mention people like command seating where they sit up high when they drive.

Of course, I cover all these details and much more in my TeslaMagazine.org article which I assume you read. If not, here is a direct link to the detailed story: https://www.teslamagazine.org/2025/09/the-2026-tesla-cyber-suv.html

Once again Sawyer, thanks so much for sharing your invaluable insight!

Cheers!

Jake :-)

Tesla Gas Station...

 

Tesla Gas Station

I recently took the supremely ironic photos below of a Tesla Supercharging Station that was placed in the parking lot of what is now an abandoned gas station. When I took this photo, I couldn't believe how profound it was as a symbolic harbinger of things to come.

Video Killed The Radio Star

Taji's Purple Gradient Wrap

 

Taji's Purple Gradient Wrap

This image from Taji Henley is really cool as it shows his purple gradient CyberTruck. Taji said on Facebook: "I never thought I was gonna be an EV kinda guy, but I am loving my truck more than life." Of course, I added my JAKEeWRAP rear pyramid window to give it a finished look...

2025 Tesla CyberTruck Crash Results

2025 Tesla CyberTruck Crash Results

About a month ago I published a story about how the IIHS had completed its first ever Tesla Cybertruck crash test footage, and gave it a 5 star rating, but I had to remove the story as they took down the video for some strange reason. Fast forward to today, and the NHTSA gave the Cybertruck another  ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating, and they also came out with updated video as seen below.

 

Additional 5-star ratings for @cybertruck https://t.co/6tzQhXL7NN

— Tesla (@Tesla) August 21, 2025

Tesla Diner Reviews

 

Tesla Diner Reviews

Lambo Orange CyberTruck

 

Lambo Orange CyberTruck

I LOVE color! As a designer, I have always been fascinated by color, and for some reason, I love jewel tones in particular. On TeslaMagazine.org, since the CyberTruck came out, I have posted many cool images of deep red, and cool blue colors, as well as green, and today I am happy to share this image of what I would refer to as a "Matte Lambo Orange" wrapped CyberTruck, which appears courtesy of Setul G. Patel, which he posted on Facebook. I think this is one of the coolest wrapped CyberTrucks I have seen.

The original image from Facebook is pictured below, and of course, I could not resist seeing what it would look like with my JAKEeWRAP rear sail window addition, along with blacking out the window sills in black, which makes it look even more awesome to me. The color wrap is "Satin stunning orange from Avery", which is unfortunately a vinyl wrap, and I only say this as I prefer PPF over Vinyly for its added durability.

Updated Model S and X Extremely Disappointing Upgrades

Updated Model S and X

Extremely Disappointing Upgrades

IN A NUTSHELL: Tesla has taken the 2022 Model S and Model X, spruced them up with festive wrapping, added vibrant RGB LED interior lighting, and placed them back under the Christmas tree as if they were sparkling new presents. Yet, these refreshed models fall short of the Cybertruck’s bold, pioneering spirit, carrying almost none of its innovative DNA, except for a stylish ambient lightbar that serves as a subtle, shimmering nod to its revolutionary design. Also, they raised the price $5k.

A few weeks ago, Tesla announced they would be upgrading the Model S and X, which many people, including myself were looking forward to. I am in the market for a new Tesla Model X, and was so stoked to finally see the new models, which I saw in person last week, and man was it anticlimactic :-(

In a nutshell, Tesla essentially added their linear LED interior ambient lightbar (pictured below), and increased the already high price by an additional $5,000, and they replaced their great blue color with a terrible new sky blue, that might as well be grey.

Tesla claimed "the new Model X has less wind and road noise, as well as more effective Active Noise Cancellation. A smoother ride thanks to new bushings, and suspension design." They also said it has adaptive driving beams, which is strange as I am fairly certain the model it replaced also had adaptive matrix headlights. The kicker is Tesla also said the new Model X features more space for 3rd row occupants and cargo.

Where is the Beef?

When I went to the showroom to check out the new Model X, the Manager was standing next to me, and I opened the rear hatch and said, "I understand the Model X now has more cargo room in the back?" He nodded and said yes. But then I took a careful look and said, "It looks identical to me???" He said, "The new model X is longer than the older model it replaced". I looked it up, and the outgoing model was 199.1 inches long, and the new one is 199.2 inches, which means they increased the length by 1/10th of an inch, which is appalling to me. The fact that Tesla would say the new model has more Space for 3rd row occupants and cargo, when they added 1/10 of an inch is beyond embarrassing, and grasping for straws at best.

I went back to my local Tesla sales center and took this photo, which definitely does NOT look like it's any bigger. I was chatting with the salesperson and mentioned that I thought it was ridiculous that Tesla said the Model X had more room. They responded by sayin they understood that the third row seats were slightly wider than on the outgoing model.

On a positive note, Tesla added a front center camera on the bumper, and filled in the pencil thin mustache area which makes the Model S and X slightly more aerodynamic, which ads 5 miles to the range. They also added more aerodynamic hubcaps which also likely contribute to this increase.

What's Missing?

I would argue this is a fake refresh, or a very minor refresh at best. Below is a list of features I was really hoping to see that Tesla failed to add:

-NO WIRELESS CHARGING 

-No bidirectional charging 

-NO POWER FRUNK [THIS IS BEYOND LAME]

-No Price reduction

-No 4680 Battery chemistry refresh

-No 48v architecture

-No 800v architecture 

-No fast charging

-No meaningful increase in range

-No rear wheel steering

-No steer by wire

-No New Motor

-No New Squircle Steering wheel.

-No HUD

-No Turning Signal Stalk.

-Shade of Blue is awful

-$5K MORE FOR ESSENTIALLY THE SAME VEHICLE.

I can't even put into words how disappointed I am with Tesla's lack of innovation with these models, as well as their lack on improvement on the CyberTruck, which they have essentially done nothing to improve, except come out with a 2WD model that is totally lame.

The X and S still use the same old 18650 battery cells which are far from state of the art. Also, Tesla still offers the Plaid models with the Yoke steering wheel, which is like a bad joke. The lack of a power up and down frunk like the CyberTruck has is also an absurd oversight for a car that costs $100K.

Tesla claims they are different than all other manufacturers who only make yearly updates. In other words, Tesla has long claimed they make improvements all the time, and frequently whenever they discover issues. This is clearly NOT the case with the CyberTruck as they ran the ball down to the 2 yard line and stopped, as it is not done.

Franz von Holzhausen who is the lead designer at Tesla was once hazing Apple for their lack of innovation with their products and said on Spike's Car Radio Podcast on February 9, 2022: 

    "The sad part about Apple products now is like there's nothing to look forward to. I feel like it's just a continuation. It's just a slight refinement on the same thing. Inspirationally, it's been hard to get super motivated by what they're doing."

—Franz von Holzhausen

Tesla Lead Designer [February 9, 2022]

This is supremely ironic, that the company with the best designed vehicles is now resting on it's laurels, and failing to innovate on the interior and exterior.

I am fine with the exterior, but if I am going to pay over $100K for a luxury vehicle, I want luxury features, like massaging seats, and rear screens integrated into the backs of the front seats. Not some goofy single screen that will strain the hell out of your neck if you watch it. Also, the fact the CyberTruck has had a Power UP/Down frunk opener for 1.5 years, and the Model S and X don't have this feature yet makes no sense at all.

Tesla announced its Q2 deliver numbers this week, and they counted all sales of the Model S, Model X and CyberTruck together by offering the number at around 10,000 for the entire world. These numbers are horrendous. Industry pundits have broken it down and their consensus is that Tesla sold around 5,000 CyberTrucks, and around 2,500 Model S and Model X.

By increasing the price of the Model S and X by $5k, after the $7,500 tax credit disappears in a few months, is likely to diminish sales of these models even more. Tesla, is not stupid, but I think we will see price decreases on these models, along with all kinds of incentives, including free supercharging for the life of the vehicle, Free FSD, as well as 0% financing.

So what is going on with Tesla, and should we be worried? I think that Elon decided to put all chips on red with fast tracking FSD, and other projects. The new Model Y is continuing to sell really well, so my best guess is Tesla just doesn't care about the Model S and X, and CyberTruck anymore. Maybe I am wrong, and I hope I am wrong.

I am in the market for a new EV today, and I would LOVE to purchase a competitors vehicle, like a Mercedes, but I can't as no other manufacturers offer FSD. In other words, FSD has FINALLY become such an invaluable benefit, so I am stuck in Tesla land, and I don't see that changing anytime soon. Don't get me wrong, the current Model S and X and CyberTruck are amazing cars, that are well designed and innovative in many ways, but I am just disappointed that Tesla has stopped any real and meaningful innovation on the vehicles themselves.

Key Takeaway Point

No Wireless Charging?

I want to make a key point here. There is a confirmed feature that Tesla will be adding to all their vehicles in the future that will be invaluable, and that is wireless charging. I have written about the tremendous benefits of wireless charging in the past. Today, there is only one Tesla vehicle made that already comes standard with the wireless charging pre-wired, and that is the CyberTruck. Tesla obviously has not released their wireless platform and hardware yet, but the CyberTruck comes pre-wired to accept it.

I don't want to spend over $100K for a vehicle that will largely become obsolete once Tesla introduces wireless charging as standard on all their vehicles, which is inevitable, and likely to occur sometime son. Can you image if you were to purchase a Model X for $120K, and a month later, they introduce a new version that comes standard with wireless charging?

Why is wireless charing so important? Every stall in all Tesla Superchargers will feature wireless charging pads, that will automatically drive your car, when in FSD to the actual wireless charger, and charge your vehicle automagically. In other words, you won't have to get out of your vehicle, and plug it in. Also, if you are at a Supercharger today, and your vehicle is plugged in, and there is something sketchy going on, you MUST get out of your vehicle to unplug it. In other words, you can't just drive away, but with wireless charing you will be able to.

If you are on a road trip and take a nap, your Tesla will be able to navigate itself to any superchargers, and charge itself automatically, even while you are sleeping, and then it can continue driving without you having to be awake.

Let's say you travel somewhere, and all the supercharger stalls are being used by others and there is a line, without wireless you will have to wait until a stall opens, so you can plug in your vehicle. With wireless charging, you will be able to get out of your vehicle, while it waits for a charging stall to open up, and then it will just go and charge itself, and when it's full, it will be able to drive away and go park itself so you are not charged extra for occupying a space after you are fully charged.

Also, at home, your Tesla will automatically pull itself in your garage and charge itself, without you having to do anything, including in tight garage spaces. In other words, if you were to park your car in front of your home, and later decided you want to charge it from a while you are away from your home, you can't without being there to plug it in. If you have wireless charging, you will be able to go to the Tesla app and tell Grok,"Pull my car in the garage and charge it". The list of benefits goes on and on and on...

Looks Like I Am Not The Only One

2026 Tesla Model X and S Reviews

The videos below go into great detail on the new X and S, and they basically draw the same conclusion I came to.