Since its showstopping, futuristic design unveiling in 2019, Tesla's Cybertruck has captured imaginations with a bold, futuristic design and ambitious promises. Chief Executive Elon Musk famously described it as "apocalypse-proof" and bulletproof, even suggesting it could double as a boat. Recent developments, though, hint that the electric pickup might not be quite as invulnerable as advertised.
In what is turning out to be a big setback, Tesla just issued its fifth Cybertruck recall in the last 12 months alone. But at the center of the latest issue is the rearview camera system, a key component in any vehicle.
According to NHTSA, over 27,000 Cybertrucks built between November 2023 and September of this year are affected. What's the problem? The rearview camera may not show an image within two seconds once the truck is placed in reverse. That's a no-no, according to federal safety regulations.
What This Means for Cybertruck Owners
If you are a Cybertruck owner, don't worry. Tesla has already issued an over-the-air software update for this problem. While the company reports no accidents or injuries related to this problem, it still shouldn't happen with a vehicle marketed as virtually indestructible.
A Pattern of Problems
This latest recall adds to the growing list of problems:
Issues with the huge windshield wiper
The accelerator pedal possibly jamming
A number of other recalls for various reasons
The Bigger Picture
Despite all that, the Cybertruck remains in high demand. Tesla doesn't publish official sales numbers, but it's estimated that they delivered roughly 5,175 units just in July, based on industry data. This recall number of over 27,000 vehicles gives us a very rare view of what the actual volume of production has been.
So What's Next?
Of course, as Tesla fixes those issues, one question remains: Can the Cybertruck live up to its bold promises?
It may not really be apocalypse-proof, but for sure, Tesla is working to fix those problems via its fleet of efficient over-the-air update systems. The message to would-be buyers and techno-enthusiasts alike is clear: even the most imaginative vehicles have growing pains.
As it turns out, when it comes to pioneering technology, perhaps this is a rule of thumb: one can only bank on the second generation of that groundbreaking product.
