Forbes has delivered a sharp critique of Tesla’s Cybertruck, calling it a possible historic failure.
The financial magazine compares it to notorious flops like the Ford Edsel, DeLorean DMC-12, and Pontiac Aztek.
“A violent ambition that has become a huge failure,” said Eric Noble, president of CARLAB. He says the Cybertruck is already on track to become the next Edsel.
Far From the Million Pre-Orders
Elon Musk promised 250,000 annual sales.
In 2024, Tesla sold fewer than 40,000. Sales dropped again in January and February 2025.
This comes despite increased production capacity at Tesla’s Gigafactory in Austin, which was expanded to meet demand that never came.
Design and Functionality Raise Questions
The stainless steel body was meant to cut costs. But it’s hard to shape and expensive to work with. Experts say savings on paint may be lost to added complexity.
The truck also shares fewer parts with other Teslas, breaking with Tesla’s usual cost-saving strategy. Critics say the design ignores key needs of pickup buyers — especially in cargo space, cabin layout, and overall practicality.
At launch, the base price was $82,235. In 2019, Musk promised $39,900. Even after tax credits, the final price is far above expectations.
Tesla has registered the Cybertruck in Europe, but analysts doubt it will sell well. The truck is too large for many roads, and its design may fail EU safety rules.
No launch plans have been announced for Europe or China. Analysts expect weak demand in both markets.
The Cybertruck has been recalled eight times in 13 months. Issues include loose body panels and mechanical problems.
Social media clips show trucks getting stuck and towed out of trouble. The vehicle has also become a symbol in anti-Tesla protests.
From Flagship to Flop?
Forbes places the Cybertruck alongside:
Ford Edsel – A sales disaster
Ford Pinto – Safety problems
DeLorean DMC-12 – Stainless steel struggles
Pontiac Aztek – Design backlash
Fisker Ocean – Quick launch, quick collapse
The Cybertruck may soon top that list.
