Tesla launches cheaper cybertruck variant, but analyst warns of limited sales impact

Tesla Inc. has introduced a more affordable version of its angular Cybertruck, trimming both the price tag and some features in an effort to broaden the vehicle’s appeal. However, at least one prominent investor remains skeptical that the move will significantly move the needle on sales.

The Austin-based automaker quietly updated its website on Thursday to unveil a new entry-level Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive trim priced at $59,990. The variant offers a 325-mile range but pares back capability compared to its Premium counterpart, featuring a reduced towing capacity of 7,500 pounds, lower ground clearance, and the omission of a rear touchscreen.

In a parallel pricing adjustment, Tesla slashed the cost of the range-topping Cyberbeast trim by $15,000, bringing it down to $99,990. The price cut comes as the company sunsets the “Luxe package” on the vehicle, which previously included perks such as Full Self-Driving capability and complimentary Supercharger access.

Wall Street Weighs In: “Hard to See What Will Change”

Despite the lower price of entry, Future Fund LLC managing partner Gary Black poured cold water on expectations of a sales surge.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Black estimated that Tesla is “unlikely to sell more than 25,000 Cybertrucks in 2026.” For context, the company delivered approximately 22,000 units globally in 2025.

While acknowledging that the new $59,990 base trim “will surely sell” compared to the previously discontinued $69,990 rear-wheel drive variant, Black noted that the bulk of volume is likely to remain with the mid-tier Premium trim priced at $79,990. He argued that without a significant shift in strategy—such as launching an advertising campaign—Tesla lacks the catalyst needed to change the vehicle’s sales trajectory.

“Absent advertising, it’s hard to see what will change Cybertruck sales momentum,” Black wrote.

The investor has previously been critical of Tesla’s reliance on discount-led marketing, arguing that a feature-led strategy would be more effective for maintaining the brand’s premium positioning.

A Crowding EV Pickup Field

The updated Cybertruck pricing arrives as competition in the electric pickup segment intensifies. Slate Auto, a startup backed by Jeff Bezos, confirmed it is on track to reveal pricing for its anticipated EV pickup in June, which it claims will land in the $20,000 range amid final supplier negotiations.

Meanwhile, traditional automakers continue to circle the segment, with Ford currently marketing its F-150 Lightning electric pickup with a starting MSRP around $30,000 after incentives in some markets.

For Tesla, the question remains whether a lower price point will be enough to reignite consumer interest in a vehicle that has garnered significant attention since its debut but has yet to translate that buzz into mass-market sales.