Why is the Tesla Cybertruck now delivered without wheel hubcaps?

Two months after beginning production, Tesla decided to remove the wheel covers from its electric Cybertruck.

Many problems could have been imagined for the debut of the Tesla Cybertruck, but certainly not this one. Two months after starting delivery to their earliest customers (who waited a minimum of 2 years), the American manufacturer has now decided to remove the wheel covers from its electric pickup. Which thus leaves its decorative element exposed.

In fact, for a vehicle priced between $70,000 and $120,000, one might expect more than just plastic wheel covers available as aftermarket accessories at $75 each.

However, alas, these same wheel covers pose safety risks. These plastic elements have a crown-shaped form that, when the tire deforms under stress (a turn, excessive load, acceleration, etc.), can cause damage to the sides of these tires.

What impact on range?

Excessive wear has been observed on some customer vehicles. To prevent accidents and legal action, Tesla has taken the proactive step of removing the wheel covers at the factory until they are redesigned. They are also advising owners who have already received vehicles to remove them. This has caused quite a commotion in the design office, but it doesn’t exactly promote the Cybertruck in a positive light.

It’s nice to mock the competition, but the issue with the wheel covers is not commendable…

We might have been tempted to just laugh at it, but American forums are already full of “experts” explaining, A to Z, how the absence of these wheel covers affects the aerodynamic efficiency of their Cybertruck. And thus the range. Some claim efficiency drops of 5 to 10%. We find these figures exaggerated…

Tesla is working on resolving this issue, which was not observed during the lengthy development months. Some owners have already been informed by Tesla that no solution will be offered before March.

What about the design of the future wheel covers for the Cybertruck? Will they be less disruptive? It is highly unlikely.

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