In the ever-evolving world of electric vehicles, Tesla Cybertruck futuristic-looking beast has been the subject of intense speculation and anticipation since its unveiling, with many wondering if it could dethrone the established players in the electric pickup truck game.
And speaking of established players, the Ford F-150 Lightning and Rivian R1T have been holding down the fort, with Ford selling around 25,000 Lightnings in 2023 and Rivian moving an estimated 20,000 R1T model. Not too shabby, right?. But here’s the kicker are predicting that the Cybertruck could potentially outsell these two heavyweights combined in 2024.
From December 2023 post, Ford stunned the EV truck scene this week by announcing a 50% cut to 2024 F-150 Lightning production, 2024 F-150 Lightning production plans, from 3,200 a week today to 1,600, and from FordAuthority news: Ford cutting workforce at F-150 Lightning plant in Dearborn by 66% (or 1,400 people) starting next week).
Now, before you start doubting our cybernetic friend’s capabilities, let’s crunch some numbers. If we’re generous and give Ford a 50% volume boost for 2024 (bringing their Lightning sales to around 37,000), and assume Rivian’s R1T sales remain stagnant at 20,000, that’s a combined total of 57,000 units. Not an easy nut to crack, but certainly within the realm of possibility for the Cybertruck.
After all, Tesla is no stranger to ambitious production targets and mind-boggling sales figures. And with reports from industry insiders like Joe Tegtmeyer suggesting that the Cybertruck’s production run rate is already hovering around 900-1,000 units per week, it’s not hard to imagine Tesla hitting that 57,000 mark – and potentially even surpassing it.
But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. There are still plenty of variables at play here, from the ever-crucial battery supply chain to good ol’ consumer demand. And let’s not forget that Ford and Rivian won’t be sitting idly by while Tesla steals their thunder. The Lightning, in particular, has already established itself as a formidable contender, and you can bet that Ford will be pulling out all the stops to maintain its dominance.
Still, there’s something undeniably alluring about the Cybertruck’s bold, unconventional design and Tesla’s knack for capturing the public’s imagination. And let’s be real – who doesn’t love a good old-fashioned sales showdown, especially when it involves futuristic electric pickup trucks?
So, whether you’re a die-hard Tesla fan, a Ford loyalist, or simply a lover of all things automotive, 2024 is shaping up to be a year worth watching. The stage is set, the contenders are primed, and the battle for electric pickup truck supremacy is about to begin.