Cybertruck’s Hype Turns Into Market Reality
When Tesla unveiled the Cybertruck in 2019, it was marketed as a revolutionary pickup—indestructible, futuristic, and a disruptor to the U.S. truck market. The debut became infamous when its “bulletproof” windows shattered during a live demo, but CEO Elon Musk promised it would redefine the industry.
Five years later, the reality is far from that promise. Data from CarGurus shows the average used Cybertruck price has fallen 30.35% over the past year, now averaging $84,027. Once one of the most anticipated vehicles in Tesla’s lineup, the Cybertruck has failed to connect with a mainstream audience.
Sales Slump Extends to New Models
The used market collapse reflects a deeper sales problem. In Q2 2025, Tesla sold only 4,306 Cybertrucks—a 50.8% drop compared with the same quarter in 2024, according to Cox Automotive Kelley Blue Book.
This performance is part of a brand-wide slowdown. CarGurus data shows used Tesla prices have dropped below the U.S. market average for the first time. As of August, the average used vehicle price in the U.S. was $28,048, while used Teslas averaged $27,852—a 14% year-over-year decline.
Price Drops Across the Tesla Lineup
The downturn isn’t limited to the Cybertruck:
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Model S: down nearly 23% year-over-year
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Model X: down almost 16%
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Model Y: down nearly 12%, despite being the world’s best-selling EV
For years, Teslas commanded a resale premium, but that edge has eroded. More owners are selling their vehicles, and fewer buyers are stepping in, creating a supply-demand imbalance that drives prices lower.
The Elon Musk Effect
Industry analysts point to CEO Elon Musk’s personal brand as a key factor in Tesla’s decline. Once seen as an innovative tech leader, Musk’s political involvement and polarizing public statements have alienated Tesla’s early customer base—environmentally conscious, liberal-leaning buyers.
His controversial tenure in the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) under the Trump administration, combined with his promotion of far-right rhetoric on X, has sparked global protests outside Tesla showrooms.
The financial fallout is clear: in Q2 2025, Tesla’s net revenue fell 16.3% compared with the same quarter last year. Although Musk has since stepped down from his government role to refocus on Tesla, the brand’s image problem remains severe.
Why It Matters
The Cybertruck’s rapid depreciation isn’t just a pricing issue—it’s a warning sign for Tesla’s broader strategy. The collapse signals:
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Falling consumer demand for new and used Teslas
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Pricing misalignment in an increasingly competitive EV market
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Reputational risks tied to the CEO’s political actions
For Tesla to recover, experts suggest revisiting pricing models, diversifying marketing messages, and rebuilding trust with alienated buyers.
Bottom Line
The Cybertruck, once a futuristic flagship for Tesla, now stands as a symbol of the brand’s decline. Until the company addresses its sales slump and public perception challenges, even its most ambitious vehicles may struggle to hold value in today’s market.
Recommend Reading: Tesla Cybertruck’s Fall from Grace: From Hype to Harsh Realit
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1 comment
No more waiting for a good price for model 2.