Tesla’s somewhat controversial Cybertruck will be touring Ireland in June, as part of what appears to be a test of public opinion, before a possible European introduction. The model will be on display at the Tesla Centre in Dundrum on June 14 and 15th and the Tesla Centre, Cork, from June 18 to 23th.

While its looks may divide opinion, the truck is made from ultra tough stainless steel, has adaptive air suspension for a super smooth ride and its performance version has a 0-100 km of 2.7 seconds. In theory, this will give it appeal to European buyers, but stories from the States are less impressive. 

Recently Tesla had to recall many Cybertrucks after reports of a faulty accelerator pedal, which could potentially see the truck stuck at full speed. Other reports include; total electrical failures, broken windscreens and reports of the truck getting stuck in sand, snow or mud and having to be towed out by other pick-ups. Also, the stainless steel body is said to react badly to car washes and is prone to premature rust. 

As a pet project of Tesla boss Elon Musk, who described the vehicle as “bulletproof”, the problems are a serious embarrassment, but are also having a negative impact of Tesla’s share value.  

A lawyer representing clients affected by faulty Tesla software, Brett Schreiber, says that Tesla is essentially applying information technology principles to the automotive world and pushing out products before they are completely ready. He said, “This is not an app, this is a multithousand-pound vehicle, hurtling down our roadways at high speeds.”

The Cybertruck is currently not on sale in Europe and one of the main reasons for this is that the European market has tougher regulations on pedestrian and cyclist safety than the US. All pick-up trucks are more dangerous than cars when it comes to pedestrians, but with its sharp edge, inflexible stainless steel exterior, it would appear that the Cybertruck will find it more difficult than most to meet safety guidelines.