Updated Model S and X Extremely Disappointing Upgrades

Updated Model S and X

Extremely Disappointing Upgrades

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...

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.

What I Want In a 2026 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 am 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.

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.

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.

Andrew Tate Drives CyberTruck For First Time

Andrew Tate 
Drives CyberTruck For First Time

Andrew Tate received a super fly CyberTruck as a surprise gift, but couldn't figure out who gave it to him. Ironically, before diving his new CyberTruck he has NEVER driven an electric car. The custom back interior with red trim is awesome. How awesome you ask? Sharks with Frickin laser beams awesome!!! I originally posted the video in this story, but the video was removed for some reason.

Polished JAKEe CyberTruck Look...

Polished JAKEe CyberTruck Look

I recently came across a stunning, freshly polished CyberTruck on Facebook, owned by Dave Peck. It already featured a lightbar and running boards, but I couldn’t resist adding my JAKEe touch. I installed my JAKEe Rear Sail Window Panel and framed the bottom window sills in black—and wow, it looks absolutely incredible!

That being said, I am on the fence with the running boards. They look kind of cool, but at the same time conflict with the streamlined look of the CyberTruck by giving it kind of strange looking love handles.

I couldn't help but be curious about what a polished CyberTruck with my original JAKEe two-tone black wrapped bottom design would look like so I created the image below, which looks pretty sick!!!!

Below is the original image Dave Peck shared on Facebook of his CyberTruck, which still looks impressive. However, I believe the sail panels and blacked-out window sill wrap, as shown above, elevate its appearance a million times over. Polishing the CyberTruck’s steel costs a bit more than a PPF wrap, but the result is undeniably worth it. My sail wrap, which should cost around $500 to install, completely transforms the CyberTruck into a breathtaking masterpiece.

Below is another photo of Dave's polished CyberTruck that I added my JAKEe rear sail windows to.

Below is the original photo before I added the JAKEe rear sail window, just for frame of reference.

Pictured below we see a different polished CyberTruck I added my JAKEe Sail window to. I think Tesla should offer a special version of the CyberTruck with the polished mirror finish as it just looks so cool...Note the polished CyberTruck pictured below lacks the top front facing lightbar...

And again, we see the original version before I added my JAKEe Sail panel and black raccoon eye trim. I have to admit I have fallen deeply in love with the chrome look of the polished stainless steel CyberTruck!!!!

My Take on the New 2WD Cybertruck: A HUGE Disappointing Step Backward

My Take on the New 2WD Cybertruck 

A HUGE Disappointing Step Backward

After much deliberation, I’ve decided to hold off on purchasing a Cybertruck until Tesla releases an updated/refreshed version. This choice might seem surprising, especially since I was among the first to reserve a Cybertruck during the initial pre-order window at the 2019 launch event. So, why didn’t I follow through when I had the chance to be first in line?

Tesla’s approach with the Foundation Series left such a horrible taste in my mouth! The significant cash-grab price hike, paired with a drastic reduction in range—down to 300 miles from the promised 500 miles—was a major anti-climatic letdown. Talk about overpromising and underdelivering!?!!

I believe Tesla is on the verge of revamping the Cybertruck, likely introducing a second-generation/refreshed model with improved range and fixes for the beta issues that have plagued the first generation. Since I’ve already waited this long, I figure I might as well hold out a bit longer for a better version.

Let’s talk about the new “Long Range” 2WD Cybertruck. Frankly, I think it’s a massive disappointment, and Tesla has dropped the ball by stripping it down so much. Cloth seats with no ventilation, no powered tonneau cover, and a slew of missing features? 

This feels like another cash grab, and I’m deeply disappointed. When my local Tesla dealership reached out to gauge my interest in this new model, my response was blunt: “Even if you offered it to me for free—on the condition that I couldn’t sell it and had to drive it weekly—I’d still pass.” That’s how underwhelming I find this stripped-down CyberTruck. In my view, Tesla will struggle to sell many of these, and I hesitate to even call it a true CyberTruck.

Key Features Missing 

from Long Range 2WD CyberTruck

Let's take a closer look at what Tesla has removed from the 2WD Long Range model CyberTruck compared to the AWD version:

Drivetrain: The 2WD configuration is a major downgrade from the AWD. A rear-wheel-drive truck feels out of place for a vehicle marketed as a rugged, all-purpose machine. 2WD means you can't drive it safely on snow and the performance in rain is degraded, and forget about taking it off-road. To my way of thinking, all vehicles in 2025 should come standard with AWD, kind of like ABS Brakes are standard today.

Performance: The 2WD takes 6.2 seconds to go from 0 to 60 mph, compared to the AWD’s 4.1 seconds. For a truck that’s supposed to be a powerhouse, this sluggish acceleration is unacceptable.

Towing Capacity: The 2WD’s towing capacity is reduced to 7,500 pounds, down from the AWD’s 11,000 pounds, limiting its utility for heavy-duty tasks.

Tonneau Cover: The Cybertruck’s iconic powered tonneau cover—known as the sliding “Vault”—stands as a cornerstone of its futuristic design and rugged utility. This robust, seamlessly integrated hard cover is a standard feature on the AWD model, delivering not only a sleek, cohesive aesthetic, but also unmatched security and durability for the truck’s bed. 

However, this hallmark feature is conspicuously absent on the 2WD model, replaced instead with an optional soft tonneau cover priced at $750. While the soft cover offers a modest range increase of up to 12 miles, it pales in comparison to the powered Vault, lacking the strength, protection, and visual impact that define the Cybertruck’s identity.

The omission of the powered tonneau cover in the 2WD variant isn’t just a minor spec difference—it’s a fundamental shift that completely dilutes the CyberTruck’s essence. The AWD’s standard hard cover reinforces the vehicle’s reputation as a bold, all-terrain powerhouse, while the 2WD’s soft alternative feels like a compromise, trading security and style for a marginal efficiency gain. This change not only undermines the 2WD model’s functionality but also strips away a key element that makes the Cybertruck instantly recognizable, leaving it as a less complete expression of Tesla’s groundbreaking vision.

Bed Lighting: The LED lights were removed from the RWD truck bed, which is totally lame.

Interior Quality: The 2WD comes with cloth seats instead of the AWD’s leatherette, and it lacks ventilated seats and rear heated seats, making the cabin feel cheap and uncomfortable. Cloth seats, in 2025!?!? 

Rear Infotainment: The 2WD model skips the rear infotainment screen, reducing its appeal for passengers.

Tire Design: The 2WD is equipped with oversized tires that, in my opinion, look awkward and detract from the vehicle’s aesthetic.

Rear Light Bar: The absence of the rear light bar makes the 2WD look incomplete and far less striking than its AWD counterpart.

HEPA Filter: The 2WD model lacks Tesla’s trademark Bioweapon Defense HEPA filter.

Suspension System: The Long Range RWD is equipped with a non-adjustable coil spring suspension with adaptive dampers, which might deliver a firmer ride and less adaptability for off-road adventures. Its ground clearance tops out at 9.57 inches. In contrast, the AWD boasts an adjustable air suspension, offering up to 16 inches of ground clearance in "Extract" mode, making it far more capable on rugged terrain.

Power Outlets: The RWD lacks the AWD’s bed power outlets (2x 120V and 1x 240V) and cabin outlets (2x 120V), limiting its ability to power tools or devices on the go—a big deal for work or camping scenarios.

A Misstep in the Making

Tesla’s 2WD Cybertruck Pricing Gamble

In summary, the 2WD Long Range Cybertruck feels like a neutered hollow shell of what the Cybertruck was meant to be. Tesla’s decision to cut these features may have lowered the retail price by $10,000, but it has also significantly diminished the vehicle’s appeal. This move feels like a calculated attempt to maximize profit margins by testing the market's willingness to pay for a stripped-down version of the Cybertruck. 

By leaving "zero cash on the table," Tesla is pushing the boundaries of what customers will accept. However, this strategy is likely to backfire. The 2WD model's lack of essential features—like the powered tonneau cover, AWD drivetrain, and premium interior—makes it a tough sell, even for die-hard Tesla fans. I anticipate that sales will be lackluster, forcing Tesla to drop the price by up to $20,000 in the coming months. 

The issue isn’t a lack of demand for the Cybertruck—it’s the glaring disconnect between price and features in this variant, and I see the same misstep looming for the AWD and Tri-Motor Beast. 

Tesla will likely roll out new AWD and Tri-Motor versions with cutting-edge 4680 batteries, keeping those sky-high prices unchanged, testing or monitoring price resistance—the exact same strategy Elon incorporated with the Model S refresh, where over the course of a year, he almost cut the price of the Plaid in half. Spoiler: it won’t work. 

With EV competition ramping up and wallets tightening, buyers won’t stomach paying a fortune for what’s essentially a battery upgrade. I predict this will flop, leaving Tesla no choice but to act fast. Picture Elon Musk hitting the panic button, slashing prices on both models by about $20,000 overnight—like a Cybertruck fire sale. That drastic drop will be the jolt needed to finally kick sales into gear, and ironically force Tesla to deliver on its original promise for the CyberTruck.

Elon’s Pricing Playbook

Maximizing Margins with Cybercab and Beyond

Tesla’s pricing strategy, orchestrated by Elon Musk, operates like a finely tuned supply-and-demand algorithm, with Musk’s intuitive sense of market timing as the critical variable. Take the buzz around Tesla’s upcoming Cybercab, for instance. Many speculate it will disrupt Uber by launching at a fraction of the cost, say $0.50 per mile against Uber’s $2.00. But I predict a different approach. When Cybercab debuts in Austin, its per-mile rate will likely match or exceed Uber’s, capitalizing on early adopter enthusiasm and Tesla’s premium brand. 

Over time—perhaps a decade—Tesla might gradually lower prices, potentially undercutting Uber by 20%, but never to the point of leaving significant profits untapped. This deliberate, high-margin strategy mirrors Tesla’s broader pricing philosophy, ensuring they maximize revenue while testing consumer willingness to pay for innovation. However, this approach misfired with the Cybertruck. 

About 9 months after Tesla began delivering CyberTrucks they boasted about breaking even on the Cybertruck’s entire cost structure, yet their aggressive cash-grab pricing—marked by steep hikes and stripped-down features—has stifled demand, proving that even Musk’s keen market timing can miss the mark when greed overshadows value. Instead, Tesla should have taken the opposite tack: delivering CyberTrucks at the original 2019 announced prices. 

Had Tesla priced the Cybertruck strategically, there would be lines snaking out the door and around the block today, with eager buyers clamoring to claim their futuristic pickup. Elon Musk once boasted of securing nearly 2 million pre-orders, a tidal wave of demand that promised to redefine the electric truck market. Yet, since deliveries began, Tesla has sold fewer than 50,000 CyberTrucks—a damning testament to how their pricing misstep and overzealous hype squandered monumental momentum.

The irony is almost surreal: when Tesla launched Cybertruck deliveries, they mandated that buyers sign an exclusive contract barring resale for a year, ostensibly to curb scalping and protect their vision. Now, a mere eighteen months later, Tesla struggles to move units in any meaningful volume, with unsold inventory piling up and resale values plummeting. This stark reversal—from draconian resale restrictions to a desperate scramble for buyers—lays bare the miscalculation that turned a potential blockbuster into a cautionary tale of hubris in the EV market.

A Theory on the Battery Technology

My hypothesis is that the Long Range 2WD Cybertruck is the first to feature Tesla’s long-awaited new dry battery cathode electrode 4680 cells, which are significantly cheaper to produce than the previous generation used in the Foundation Series. This theory is based on a tweet from Tesla employee Michael Guilfoy, who recently shared:

    "Been waiting to acknowledge this great achievement by Tesla's 4680 Cell Manufacturing team since the end of last year... As Elon announced last night, our Cell Manufacturing team in Texas reached a huge milestone at the end of 2024 with becoming the lowest cost per kWh battery cell producer for Tesla!"

From what I understand, this new battery pack alone reduces the manufacturing cost of the Cybertruck by approximately $12,000. To the best of my knowledge, Tesla has not disclosed the kWh size of this new battery, but I suspect it’s similar to the older models. There’s also significant room in the Cybertruck’s battery pack area for taller batteries, like a 46/110 configuration. 

I believe Tesla will soon launch a refreshed AWD Cybertruck with a range of around 420 miles, retailing for about $10,000 less than the current model. This mid-2025 refresh would address many of the shortcomings of the initial vehicles, which felt like beta testers, while offering better value. 

Tesla Cybertruck 2025

Pioneering Wireless Charging and Refining a Beta Revolution

I believe the updated mid/late-2025 Cybertruck will introduce Tesla’s highly anticipated wireless charging system, a technology refined over years to mirror the seamless efficiency of smartphone wireless chargers. This system will likely be integrated into all Tesla Supercharger stations and offered as a home garage solution. 

The charging process will be fully automated: upon entering a garage or approaching a Supercharger, the Cybertruck will autonomously align itself with pinpoint precision over a charging pad, using advanced sensors to optimize connection with the vehicle’s underbody charging puck. 

Ironically, all Cybertrucks produced to date are reportedly pre-wired for this innovative system, ensuring compatibility and enabling a smooth transition to this game-changing feature, which will enhance convenience and redefine the EV charging experience.

My perspective is that, despite the awe-inspiring innovation of the Foundation Series Cybertruck—which, from personal experience, I’d argue is among the greatest vehicles ever crafted—these early models have effectively served as beta testers for the Cybertruck platform. 

The cutting-edge technologies introduced, such as the dry cathode 4680 cells and pre-wired wireless charging compatibility, are poised to cascade into Tesla’s 2025 Model S and Model X refreshes. These upcoming models are expected to incorporate advanced features like bi-directional charging and all-wheel steering, leveraging the Cybertruck’s pioneering advancements to elevate Tesla’s entire lineup.

Reflecting on advice I received in my early 20s from a friend’s father—“Never buy the first year or two of a new model until the kinks are ironed out”—I find it profoundly relevant to the Cybertruck. This wisdom guided my decision to await the refined 2025 refresh.

Among the Cybertruck’s initial design missteps, the rearview mirror’s woefully inadequate functionality emerges as a glaring flaw, undermining driver safety and situational awareness. A robust solution would be to replace the traditional mirror with a high-resolution rearview camera system, seamlessly integrated into a dynamic video display. Fed by a camera strategically mounted at the Cybertruck’s rear roofline, this system would deliver a crystal-clear, unobstructed view, unaffected by the tonneau cover’s obstruction of the rear window.

Equally perplexing is Tesla’s baffling oversight in equipping the Cybertruck with a front camera complete with a wet washer system, yet neglecting to include a similar washer for the rear camera. The Cybertruck’s rugged design naturally kicks up significant dirt and debris, rendering the rear camera virtually useless on dusty or muddy roads. Drivers are often forced to rely on the central touchscreen for a rearview feed—already a compromise given the tonneau cover’s defeat of the traditional mirror—only to find the display marred by a grime-covered lens, obscuring critical visibility. This inexplicable omission transforms a cutting-edge feature into a frustrating liability, highlighting a critical lapse in Tesla’s attention to real-world usability.

Another telltale sign of the Cybertruck’s early-adopter status is the delayed availability of the signature Lightbar, standard on the Foundation Series “Beast” tri-motor variant. As of late April 2025, Tesla is only now catching up on delivering these Lightbars to original owners, and they remain unavailable for separate purchase for 2025 AWD or 2WD Cybertruck buyers. This lag underscores the platform’s beta nature. Compounding the issue, Tesla plans to offer the Lightbar for all Cybertruck owners starting in June 2025 at a steep $2,500, including installation—a price that feels like an opportunistic cash grab and further highlights the growing pains of this revolutionary yet still-maturing vehicle.

Final Thoughts

As a longtime Tesla enthusiast—and self-proclaimed president of the Tesla fan club—I couldn’t be more disappointed with this model! For now, I’ll keep waiting for a Cybertruck that lives up to the original hype. It’s a complete bummer, but I remain confident that Tesla’s best days are still ahead. However, the way they’ve handled the Cybertruck launch has been a blunder, and I hope they learn from it.

Tesla Cyber Roadster with JAKEe Rear Sail Pyramid Window

 

Tesla Cyber Roadster

With JAKEe Rear Sail Pyramid Window

CyberTruck Looks Like a Lotus Esprit

 

CyberTruck Looks Like a Lotus Esprit

I know Elon Musk purchased James Bond's 1977 Louts Esprit that appeared in The Spy Who Loved me, and when I saw this image of a customized all white CyberTruck from Autographics, I had a deja vu moment, as I saw how remarkably similar it looks to James Bond's Lotus...On detail that is remarkably similar beside all the sharp lines is the Pontiac Fiero style abrupt rear side window shape...

Satin Frozen Ruby CyberTruck

 

Satin Frozen Ruby CyberTruck

I recently saw a CyberTruck that literally stopped me in its tracks as it was so beautiful! I parked in this garage, and got out of my car, and saw this magnificent beauty staring at me. The color of the PPF wrap is Satin Frozen Ruby, and it's from CyberTruckWraps.com. 

An hour later, when I was returning to my car, I started taking more photos of this beauty and just afterward I noticed the owners approaching their CyberTruck as I was exiting the parking garage and stopped in my Model S and I said, "It this your CyberTruck?" They looked at me with a kind of worried look, and said 'Yes'. It turns out they thought maybe I was going to hate on them, but then the husband said to the wife, 'You don't have to worry, he's driving a Tesla'. 

We had a great conversation, and the owner informed me that he wrapped it with CyberTruckWraps Satin Frozen Ruby, which is just gorgeous!! I looked down and noticed the CyberTruck wheel cap was completely off center and I snapped this photo.

Tesla CyberVan Concept

 

Tesla CyberVan Concept

I hope Tesla comes out with a new Model X that has a similar form factor to the image below:

I noticed this Tesla CyberVan Concept in a goofy AI video on YouTube. So why am I including this? In my opinion the CyberTruck is currently the best vehicle ever made, with the Tesla Model S, coming in second, and the Model X coming in third. I think the Model X is an amazing car, but all the doors are absolutely horrible, especially the Falcon Wing Doors, which are horrendously terrible. Tesla recently confirmed they are coming out with an updated Model X, and I am hoping they will make a completely update model that has sliding rear doors, like a minivan, which would work 100 times better, and cost far less to make.

I think it would be cool if Tesla made a modular Model X design where the standard model would look like the one above, and would offer an extended wheelbase model with an even larger battery, and a luxurious third row that very comfortably seat people or serve as a camper, kind of like what we see in the goofy AI generated video below. I think the missing piece of the Tesla model puzzle is a vehicle that is designed to transport larger families. In other words, a larger Mini-Van that could comfortably seat 7 or 8 people.

I am including the original video below that this image came from, but I think since it's AI generated, it's pretty nonsensical, but I do like the way it look only in the image above, and I hope Tesla replaces the current Model X with a MiniVan-like design and if they nail it just right, it could displace the CyberTruck in universal appeal. I really hope and pray Tesla finally gets rid of those awful, stupid, terrible, useless falcon-wing doors.

A Note on My JAKEe CyberTruck Sail Wrap

 

A Note on My JAKEe

CyberTruck Sail Rear Window Wrap

If you follow Jake's Tesla World you are probably familiar with my JAKEe CyberTruck design reference I created the evening that Elon first showed off the CyberTruck 6 years ago. When I first saw the CyberTruck I thought it looked amazing, but I thought the abrupt ending of the rear window shape that did not follow and complete the pyramid CyberTruck silhouette shape make it look cut off, like a Pontiac Fiero, or something...So I went crazy, and came up with my idea for a two tone wrap that is black on the bottom and silver on the top. Many people who have purchased CyberTrucks have adopted and incorporated my design ideas, and I recently discovered this one from Brian K. Sheets. 

I've spent many hundreds of hours deeply contemplating my JAKEe CyberTruck Design Reference look, and there is something I noticed that people did that made my design look a little off, and this article addresses this, and has some tips on how to enhance and overcome the challenge. The image above shows Jim's CyberTruck, with my rear sail window wrap idea, which he added, and it looks really cool, but it looks a little mismatched from certain angles. I figured out the way to overcome this challenge, and that is to continue the black wrap on the window ledge as pictured below, which has a mascara like effect. In other words, the original version pictured above looks kind of off as the rear sail window panel wrap does NOT line up with the rest of the pyramid panel structure. On the version below, which I added the black wrap along the window sill, makes it look completely aligned and cohesive.

My second tip, is I recommend that if somebody likes my JAKEe Wrap Design Reference for CyberTruck, it's important to wrap the Frunk in black also, which ads significant contrast that emphasizes the side triangle shape of the CyberTruck. Thus the image below has a Black Frunk wrap, as the versions pictured above lack the black Frunk, as they were left unwrapped in silver.

The image below shows how if you add the rear sail panel without adding the black wrap on the window sill, it can look like there is a mismatch, which is not a mismatch, it's just an optical illusion which makes the rear pyramid sail window look like it's not properly aligned and applied too low.

On the image below, I added my subtle black wrap on the window sills, and it makes a big difference, and makes it look like it's properly aligned from all angles.

Below is a excerpt from a recently published story that addressed this issue, so I thought I would add it for frame-of-reference: 

One More Thing

Mark asked me if anybody sells the side faux window panels already pre-cut, and I mentioned that T-Sportline offers them for sale, and they call them "Tesla Cybertruck Rear Window Fade Out PPF Wrap Kit", but I pointed out to Mark that from what I can tell from some angles these sail panels don't look right or look kinda crooked.

I believe the solution to optimizing this looks is to also wrap the flat window sill area with black, which completes the look as seen below. This makes it look much more cohesive and organic and makes the rear sail panel look more real. By tinting the windows and adding black wrap to the window sill, it also makes the CyberTruck look more masculine, kind of like the CyberTruck is wearing Sunglasses, and the extra black wrap has a mascara effect. Also, it doesn’t look like an afterthought sticker that got slapped on...

Tesla CyberTruck 5-Star Safety Rating from NHTA

Tesla CyberTruck
5-Star Safety Rating from NHTA

Tesla achieved a 5-Star Rating in crash testing from the United States National Highway and Transportation Association, and in this article we see some crazy photos of the Ramp test where the CyberTruck gets some serious air before it crashes...Also, the Tesla Video at the bottom of this article is INSANE!!!!!

JAKEe Mirror Polished CyberTruck with Pyramid Sail Wrap side Panels

 

JAKEe Mirror Polished CyberTruck

Design Reference 

with Pyramid Sail Wrap side Panels

Lately, I have fallen in love with the look of a mirror polished stainless steel CyberTruck look. Just to be clear, when I say mirror polished stainless steel CyberTruck, this is achieved by having a professional metal polisher literally polish the hell out of the stainless steel panels on a CyberTuck, which is typically a process that takes several days and cost between $4500 and $8500. The professional polisher first sans the CyberTruck, then buffs and polishes it to a mirror finish.

My friend Mark, from Mark of the Beast recently hand his Tri-Motor CyberTruck Beast polished, and I published a detailed story that includes videos of the fascinating process. I kept telling Mark he needs to add my JAKEe rear sail pyramid panel wrap piece to complete the shape of the pyramid for the windows. Today I saw this killer photo pictured below that somebody took of a Mirror Polished CyberTruck that was reflecting a modern mid engine C8 Corvette. 

I decided to clean up the photo by fixing the sky, and removing all the power cables and then I added my JAKEe Rear Window Sail Pyramid Panel to the picture above to show Mark how great I thought it would look on his Beast. Then I realized, how insanely great this looks, and now I have decided when I get my CyberTruck I am going to do exactly this. It looks so great, and so NEXT-LEVEL, I am even thinking about delaying doing my two-tone black bottom JAKEe wrap design, as I love this looks so much!!! 

I discovered this image on FaceBook and if I understand it correctly, the mirror polished CyberTruck is owned by Marcus Reno, and the photo was taken by Lisa Gipson Haag.

One More Thing

Mark asked me if anybody sells the side faux window panels already cut, and I mentioned that T-Sportline does, and they call them "Tesla Cybertruck Rear Window Fade Out PPF Wrap Kit", but I pointed out to Mark that from what I can tell from some angles these sail panels don't look right or look kinda crooked.

I believe the solution to optimizing this looks is to also wrap the flat window sill area with black, which completes the look as seen below. This makes it look much more cohesive and organic and makes the rear sail panel look more real. By tinting the windows and adding black wrap to the window sill, it also make the CyberTruck look more masculine, kind of like the CyberTruck is wearing Sunglasses, and the extra black wrap has a mascara effect. Also, it doesn’t look like an afterthought sticker that got slapped on...

Decisions, Decisions?

I originally planned to wrap my CyberTruck when I get it with my original JAKEe CyberTruck Wrap design seen above, but I like the look of the Mirror Polished CyberTruck, I think I will do it first, and then maybe later add the black PPF on bottom, which I will now probably have to do in glossy, in order to match the top of the my CyberTruck which will have a mirror finish. This may not seem strange to you, but it does to me as I was stoked an confident I was going to immediately wrap it like my design above, so I can't believe I think I have changed my mind? I just think the mirror polished CyberTruck looks soooooooo RAD!!!!!! and soooooo NEXT-LEVEL, as it look otherworldly, and does not look at all like a standard CyberTuck...