Tesla faces backlash from drivers after canceling a highly anticipated feature at the last minute, causing widespread disappointment and anger.
Tesla is again under scrutiny as it cancels a major feature for its Cybertruck.
The company, led by Elon Musk, has been grappling with a series of setbacks, disappointing many loyal customers and investors alike.
The latest controversy centers around the abrupt cancellation of the Range Extender.
This add-on was highly anticipated to significantly boost the Cybertruck’s driving range.
Tesla drivers outraged over cancellation of most anticipated feature at the last minute
Since its debut in November 2023, the Cybertruck has struggled to meet expectations.
The futuristic vehicle was marketed as a durable, long-range EV, capable of revolutionizing the pickup truck market.
One of its standout features was supposed to be the Range Extender, an additional battery pack mounted in the truck bed, designed to push the vehicle’s range beyond 400 miles.
However, Tesla’s recent announcement to scrap this feature has left many customers feeling betrayed.
The Range Extender was initially promised to extend the Cybertruck’s range to approximately 470 miles for the dual-motor version.
This figure was later revised down to 445 miles, still a solid improvement compared to the base model.
Tesla delayed the release of the Range Extender several times.
It was originally planned for early 2025, then pushed back to mid-year before being canceled altogether.
Customers who had already placed deposits, some as high as $2,000, are now being refunded.
Customers react with disappointment and frustration online
The news has sparked a wave of criticism on social media platforms, with owners and prospective buyers expressing their disappointment.
On Reddit, one frustrated Cybertruck owner labeled Tesla’s handling of the situation as a “joke.”
“They took deposits on this well over a year ago, held that money, have delayed this product multiple times and now canceling it. First a bait and switch on the price and specs of the truck, and now this,” they said.
The second user added: Never buy a product on the promise of future upgrades. Make your purchasing decision based on what you’re actually getting at the time.
For some people, the refund is fine. For others, they wouldn’t have bought the truck at all if the range extender was never an option.
The third user commented: The original pitch promised range without this space hog of an idea. Whole thing is a mess.
Another user wrote: This isn’t the same as other instance. This is more deceptively misleading as it was advertised heavily and had no reason to think they would drop it.
Someone added: Tesla never returned the deposit either. They were trying to scam people into sharing personal data in exchange of that money. Beware.
Profit declines and investor pressure compound Tesla’s troubles
Tesla’s troubles extend beyond product disappointments.
The company has recently reported a 70% decline in profits, alarming shareholders and industry analysts.
Elon Musk’s political roles, such as leading the Department of Government Efficiency, have put extra pressure on Tesla’s operations.
Major investors are increasingly demanding Musk step down as CEO, raising concerns about Tesla’s future.
Reports of violence at Tesla dealerships are worsening the company’s public image.
Rumors say Tesla seeks a new CEO, but Musk plans to focus more on Tesla and less on politics.
The Cybertruck’s performance fails to meet expectations
In addition to the Range Extender cancellation, the Cybertruck’s overall performance on range has been underwhelming.
Tesla originally claimed the vehicle could travel 500 miles on a single charge.
However, more realistic figures show a maximum of about 340 miles in optimal conditions, and closer to 325 miles when using all-wheel drive.
Lower range estimates and cancellation of the Range Extender cast doubt on Cybertruck’s promises.
Buyers question Cybertruck’s cost-saving benefits, doubting investment in a vehicle with uncertain and unreliable capabilities.
