On April 14, 2025, Tesla introduced a Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) Cybertruck priced at $69,990, a $10,000 saving over the $79,990 All-Wheel Drive (AWD) model. Announced on Tesla’s official website, this trim boasts a 350-mile range but omits all-wheel drive, air suspension, and the signature rear light bar. For electric vehicle enthusiasts, this signals Tesla’s push to broaden the Cybertruck’s market amid tepid sales. Yet, the feature cuts spark debate about its value in a crowded electric pickup segment.

A Cost-Cut Cybertruck with Top Range

The Long Range RWD Cybertruck prioritizes efficiency and affordability. Its 350-mile estimated range with 18-inch wheels surpasses the AWD’s 325 miles and the $99,990 Cyberbeast’s 301 miles. An optional $750 soft tonneau cover extends range to 362 miles. At 325 kW, DC fast charging adds 147 miles in 15 minutes, outpacing the AWD’s 135 miles.
A single rear-motor with a mechanical locking differential achieves 0-60 mph in 6.2 seconds, trailing the AWD’s 4.1 seconds and Cyberbeast’s 2.6 seconds.

Top speed, though unspecified, likely aligns with similar single-motor EVs at around 110-115 mph. Towing capacity is 7,500 pounds (3,402 kg), down from 11,000 pounds (4,990 kg) in higher trims. Payload reaches 2,006 pounds (910 kg) with optional 20-inch wheels, versus 2,500 pounds (1,134 kg) for the AWD. Priced at $69,990—or $62,490 after the $7,500 federal tax credit—this trim targets budget-conscious buyers.

Feature Trade-Offs: What $10,000 Cuts

Tesla trimmed key features to hit the lower price. The adaptive air suspension, offering up to 16 inches (40.6 cm) of ground clearance in AWD models, gives way to a coil spring system limited to 9.57 inches (24.3 cm), curbing off-road prowess. The full-width rear light bar is replaced by standard taillights and small side strips, diluting the Cybertruck’s bold aesthetic.

Inside, cloth seats substitute for vegan leather, and the audio system drops to seven speakers from 15, without active noise cancellation. The 9.4-inch rear touchscreen, HEPA filter, and bed/cabin power outlets (120V/240V) are absent. No powered tonneau cover comes standard; a manual soft version costs $750. Retained features include a powered frunk, steer-by-wire, four-wheel steering, and an 18.5-inch touchscreen with eight cameras. Full Self-Driving (FSD) compatibility is available, likely at Tesla’s current $8,000 fee, though pricing is unconfirmed.

Market Fit: Facing Stiff Competition

The Cybertruck has faltered since its 2023 launch, with 50,000 units delivered against a 200,000-unit annual goal. Q1 2025 sales hit 6,406, and used models are selling below AWD’s original price, reflecting weak demand. The RWD, orderable in the U.S., Mexico, and Saudi Arabia for June 2025 delivery, aims to boost volume.

Competitors challenge its value. The Ford F-150 Lightning starts at $65,190 with dual motors, 320 miles, and 10,000-pound (4,536 kg) towing. Rivian’s R1T, at $71,900, offers 328 miles and AWD. The Chevrolet Silverado EV single-motor trim, at $57,095, matches the RWD’s range with more features. Tesla’s $69,990 exceeds its canceled $60,990 RWD promise and far outstrips the 2019 base price of $39,990 ($50,249 today, inflation-adjusted).

Regulatory and Production Factors

The RWD qualifies for the $7,500 federal tax credit, enhancing affordability. Its single-motor design may limit appeal in regions favoring AWD for traction. Steer-by-wire, legal in the U.S., demands driver adjustment, potentially hindering mass adoption. The Cybertruck’s stainless steel exoskeleton and bullet-resistant glass likely push weight above 6,000 pounds (2,722 kg), straining efficiency and charging networks.

Tesla’s Giga Texas factory could leverage the RWD’s simpler build to scale production, addressing inventory woes. However, the $10,000 savings may not offset the loss of air suspension and AWD, critical for a truck pitched as versatile.

EVXL’s Take: Strong Range, Questionable Value

The Long Range RWD Cybertruck leads with a 350-mile range, unmatched among electric pickups, and a $62,490 post-credit price that undercuts AWD rivals. Steer-by-wire and FSD readiness keep it cutting-edge. Yet, EVXL questions its compromises. Stripped of AWD, air suspension, and premium touches, it falls short of the Cybertruck’s rugged, futuristic vision. Towing and payload limits hurt utility, and competitors like the F-150 Lightning deliver more for less.

Tesla may be nudging buyers toward the $79,990 AWD, a tactic seen in past pricing strategies. Build quality, a persistent Cybertruck issue, remains a concern. Enthusiasts should prioritize range needs and test-drive to assess steer-by-wire. The RWD could spark sales, but only if Tesla refines execution.