Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov accused Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla Inc., of remotely disabling a Tesla Caminhão cibernético that Kadyrov claims was a gift from Musk. The Cybertruck, which Kadyrov alleges was modified with a machine gun, has stirred controversy, raising questions about the security and remote control capabilities of Tesla’s electric vehicles (EVs). Benzinga reported that Kadyrov expressed his frustration in a Telegram post, calling Musk’s actions “unmanly.”

The Cybertruck Incident: What Happened?

Kadyrov said that he received the Cybertruck from Musk and had modified it for use in Chechnya, claiming it was “remotely disabled” by Musk. “Elon Musk behaved badly. He gives expensive gifts from the heart, and then turns them off remotely,” Kadyrov wrote in his post. He also shared a vídeo showcasing the militarized Cybertruck, referring to it as the “Cyberbeast” and noting its advanced technology. However, Musk has denied ever gifting the vehicle, leaving the origins of the Cybertruck a mystery. The export of such a vehicle from the U.S. to Chechnya would likely violate U.S. sanctions, further complicating the situation.

Tesla’s Remote Control Capabilities Under Scrutiny

Tesla vehicles, including the Cybertruck, are equipped with advanced software that allows for over-the-air updates and remote monitoring. This incident highlights the extent of Tesla’s remote control features, which can include disabling a vehicle’s functionality. While this capability can be used for safety or theft prevention—such as remotely slowing down a stolen vehicle—it also raises concerns about privacy and security. For EV owners, the idea that a manufacturer can remotely disable a vehicle in a conflict zone, potentially stranding the user, is alarming. The Cybertruck, with its stainless steel exoskeleton and up to 320 miles (515 kilometers) of range, is marketed as a rugged, all-terrain EV, but this event underscores vulnerabilities in its connected systems.

Industry Trends: The Double-Edged Sword of Connectivity

The EV industry is increasingly leaning into connectivity, with manufacturers like Tesla integrating remote diagnostics, software updates, and even autonomous driving features. While these advancements improve user experience—offering real-time performance tweaks or enhanced safety—they also expose vehicles to new risks. Cybersecurity experts have long warned about the potential for hacking or misuse of remote access systems. This incident may push regulators to scrutinize the balance between manufacturer control and user autonomy, potentially leading to stricter guidelines on remote disabling features. For Tesla, which reported delivering over 1.8 million vehicles globally in 2024, maintaining trust in its technology is critical as it expands into new markets.

Elon Musk Remotely Disables Tesla Cybertruck In Chechnya, Sparking Security Concerns For Ev Owners

EVXL’s Take: A Wake-Up Call for EV Enthusiasts

Here at EVXL, we’re all about the thrill of electric vehicles—think of the Cybertruck as the EV world’s answer to a sci-fi tank! But this news out of Chechnya is a bit of a reality check. While it’s impressive that Tesla can remotely manage its fleet, the idea of your Cybertruck suddenly shutting down—whether you’re off-roading in the Rockies or, apparently, in a conflict zone—is enough to fazer any EV owner pause. This incident shows that the future of EVs isn’t just about range or horsepower; it’s about trust. As EV enthusiasts, we love the tech, but we also want to know our vehicles won’t be turned off on someone else’s whim. Tesla might need to roll out some clear policies on this, or risk losing the confidence of drivers who value independence as much as innovation.

This situation not only highlights the complexities of EV technology but also underscores the broader implications for international security and Tesla’s reputation as a leader in the EV space.

Photos courtesy of Kyiv Independent / X