Following a thorough examination of numerous spy videos and detailed photographs of nearly finalized Tesla Cybertruck prototypes and potential releases, it became evident that the construction standards were subpar. Even in the advanced prototype stages, noticeable discrepancies in panel alignment, poorly fitting fender flares, and elements out of sync were prevalent.
However, on Friday, November 10, 2023, Tesla presented in New York City during the Annual Barron Conference what seemed to be a Cybertruck ready for production. The improvement in its appearance was significant.
The Cybertruck made an appearance at the Lincoln Center in the Upper West Side area of Manhattan. What brought it there? Reports suggest that billionaire investor Ron Baron possesses approximately 17.5 million Tesla shares valued at $4.8 billion (as of September 2023), making it unsurprising that the stylish electric vehicle was exhibited outside his event venue. Nevertheless, the caliber of the displayed model appeared to surprise fans and participants, judging by Twitter responses.
Only a week ago, we highlighted issues found on a final-phase matte-black prototype in Southern California. The truck displayed sizable panel gaps, allowing for finger insertion, a noticeable overlap where the A-pillar met the nose, misaligned fender flares, and uneven sections in the rear light bar—a catalog of discrepancies. Interestingly, the New York City showcase version largely lacked these imperfections.
Upon scrutinizing the recent images, one can discern a space where the panel beneath the DRL blends into the side. However, it’s more of a meticulous observation, unlikely to be as concerning as the previous disorder.
Following a test drive by the CEO, who personally identified imperfections in panel alignment earlier this year, specific quality objectives were communicated via email to the workforce by Elon Musk. In the leaked communication, Musk emphasized, “Given the distinctive characteristics of the Cybertruck, composed of reflective metal and predominantly linear contours, any deviations in dimensions become glaringly apparent.” He stressed that all components, whether produced internally or sourced from external suppliers, must adhere to precision standards below 10 microns.
Is the recent observation an indication of approaching sub-10-micron precision? Likely not, and that’s a challenging judgment to make. Nevertheless, it suggests that Tesla can enhance the excellence to almost flawlessness and address the difficulties arising from assembling an electric vehicle with stainless steel body panels and intricate manufacturing methods.
And that raises another query, will the numerous Cybertrucks planned for production by the company exhibit the same level of sophistication as the prototype presented in New York City? Only time will reveal.
Source and Images: Motor1