Tesla entered the Philippine market in late 2024 to challenge the rapidly growing local electric vehicle (EV) segment. Operating under the leadership of its parent company in America, Tesla Philippines arrived with sleek EV models such as the Model Y midsize SUV and the Model 3 sports sedan.
But there’s a third model in the roster that’s somehow not highlighted all that much. In fact, this model isn’t even for sale, but it’s still listed as one of Tesla Philippines’ “offerings” on its official website. Yes, we’re talking about the Cybertruck, Tesla’s unique take on an electric pickup truck.
The Tesla Cybertruck was first introduced as a prototype in 2019 and was officially launched in 2023. Aside from its futuristic angular design, its shell is also constructed using ultra-hard stainless steel. This material gives the Cybertruck its distinctive polygonal appearance, which sets it apart from any other model in its class today. In addition, Tesla refers to this stainless steel shell as an “exoskeleton,” which it claims reduces dents, damage, and long-term corrosion.
In more detail, the Tesla Cybertruck is also fitted with an armor glass, which the brand boasts as a material that could withstand the impact of a speeding baseball at 112 km/h. It also features an air suspension, which raises the ride height to maximize its off-road capabilities. And, as a pickup truck, its unique bed, called the “vault,” comes with a retractable cover that also serves as an added style point to its futuristic look. The vault can carry around 1,134 kg of load, and the vehicle itself can tow around 4,990 kg, which Tesla compares to the average weight of an African elephant
According to the Tesla Philippines website, the Cybertruck is available in three variants: Cyberbeast, All-Wheel-Drive, and Long Range. The Cyberbeats posts an EV driving range of 515 km on a single full charge, while the All-Wheel-Drive records 520 km. The Long Range, on the other hand, can be driven up to 570 km before it requires a charge. As per the 0-100 km/h acceleration rate, the Cyberbeast sprints in just 2.7 seconds, while the All-Wheel-Drive at 4.3 seconds. The Long Range gets it at 6.8 seconds.
With all these features and figures, the Tesla Cybertruck is a promising entry in the local pickup truck and EV segment. Yet, there’s still no word as to why Tesla Philippines is not selling the Cybertruck locally, despite its presence on the website.
We’ve managed to get in touch with Tesla Philippines regarding this, however. The company replied with a statement that said, “The Cybertruck is posted on our site as it is important to keep our audience informed about innovations and developments in the electric vehicle space. There is no advice if there may be a chance for the Cybertruck to make its way here.”
It appears that even Tesla Philippines is in the dark about the chances of a local entry for the Cybertruck.
There are many factors as to why the company is holding back the Cybertruck. If we could float one, it might be because of the model’s selling price in the US. To date, the Tesla Cybertruck is retailed in America from $72,235 to $114,990, depending on the variant or options fitted. That’s around P4,133,214 to P6,579,612 in today’s exchange rate. Going by these figures, the pricing is a serious steep challenge to beat.
However, it is worth recalling that the recent Philippine-US trade talks resulted in a 0% tariff on all US-made/branded cars, which, in theory, could help bring the price down slightly. Add to this the EVIDA Law, which grants long-term 100% excise tax exemptions to full EVs, then the chances of a cheaper brand new Cybertruck from Tesla Philippines are, indeed, possible.
