Posted on Friday October 4th, 2024
Big news for Tesla fans: Tesla has opened up its configurator for non-Foundation Series Cybertrucks, finally giving reservation holders in the United States a chance to customize and secure their long-awaited vehicles. If you’ve been eyeing a Cybertruck but were holding out for a more budget-friendly option, this could be your moment.
Non-Foundation vs. Foundation Series: What’s the Difference?
The non-Foundation Series Cybertruck might not have all the bells and whistles that the Foundation Series boasts, but it comes at a significantly more affordable price. While it lacks some exclusive extras—like the special edition badging and lifetime perks—it still offers the full Cybertruck experience with options to add many features “à la carte.”
These add-ons include Premium Connectivity, Powershare Wall Connector, Full Self-Driving (FSD), and others, making it possible for owners to tailor their trucks to their exact needs. The major elements missing are the special badging, some premium accessories, and early access perks that come with the Foundation Series. Essentially, if you don't mind giving up a few flashy extras, you can still enjoy a high-tech, futuristic Cybertruck without breaking the bank.
Pricing Breakdown: What Can You Expect to Pay?
For those considering this new option, the pricing structure is as follows: The All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Cybertruck starts at $79,990 in the US, while the Tri-Motor “Cyberbeast” version is available for $99,990. Canadian buyers can expect these prices to start at $109,990 CAD and $135,990 CAD respectively.
However, it's worth noting that the AWD Cybertruck in the United States is currently ineligible for the Federal EV Tax Rebate. If it were eligible, it would bring the price down to around $72,500, making it an even more attractive proposition. For now, it seems that the AWD model only qualifies for the Commercial Clean Vehicle Credit, which can be claimed if the vehicle is used for commercial purposes. On the other hand, Canadian buyers can benefit from the Federal Heavy iZEV Rebate, and the Cybertruck’s weight exempts it from the luxury tax—bringing its cost down to $104,990 before tax, which actually makes it cheaper than a Model S or Model X Long Range.
“Your Cybertruck Is Ready for Delivery”
Tesla seems eager to start getting these trucks into the hands of reservation holders as soon as possible. Emails have started rolling out to customers, announcing that their Cybertrucks are “ready for delivery.” Tesla appears to be targeting early reservation holders who didn’t convert their orders to the Foundation Series as well as those who put down a deposit but decided not to proceed with the more expensive option. This could mean a faster rollout for those who have been patiently waiting in line for their Cybertruck.
So far, these invites have only been sent to early reservation holders, but they are likely to expand further as Tesla works through the backlog of over 2 million deposits—a number that continues to grow. If Tesla can keep up the pace, we may see these futuristic trucks flooding the roads sooner than expected.
Pricing Perks for Early Reservation Holders
One notable benefit for early reservation holders is that the price for Full Self-Driving (FSD) is being honored at the original booking rate of $7,000 USD. Considering the price hikes we've seen for FSD over the past few years, this is a big win for those who got in early. Additionally, early adopters can opt for the white interior at an additional cost of $2,000 USD and upgrade to Cyber Wheels for an extra $3,500 USD.
Foundation Series: All the Extras You’re Missing Out On
The Foundation Series Cybertruck comes with a host of features that distinguish it from the standard version. These include laser-etched badges on the exterior, a custom internal cabin graphic on the dash, lifetime Premium Connectivity, a Powershare Mobile Connector plus a discounted Powershare installation, and $2,500 USD ($3,500 CAD) of Tesla Shop Credit. The Cyberbeast variant of the Foundation Series also includes an off-road lightbar, ideal for those planning to take their Cybertruck off the beaten path.
However, if you’re willing to forego these premium perks, the non-Foundation Series Cybertruck still offers a formidable package at a more accessible price point.
The Road Ahead
As of now, there’s no official news on when Canadian or Mexican reservation holders will receive their invites to configure non-Foundation Series Cybertrucks, though deliveries of the Foundation Series have already begun in Mexico and are expected to reach Canada by late October or early November.
For those who’ve been eagerly waiting for their Cybertruck, the opportunity to configure a non-Foundation Series model is exciting news. It means that Tesla is moving forward with its production goals and that the futuristic pickup will soon be more than just a concept or a flashy sight on stage—it will be on roads, in driveways, and, for some, in their garage, ready for adventure.
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