Tesla Cybertruck MIIT filing suggests Chinese market entry

Tesla's Cybertruck has passed a key regulatory hurdle in China, securing an energy consumption homologation from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT). This strongly hints at fast approaching launch of the electric pickup truck in the world's largest EV market.

The MIIT's report reveals that the Cybertruck, classified as an M1 passenger vehicle, has received an official range of 384 miles. The vehicle's curb weight is a substantial 6,843 lb, and it's powered by three electric motors with peak outputs of 206 kW, 222 kW, and 222 kW. That means we are looking at the Cyberbeast version. Its energy consumption is rated at 22.6 kWh per 62 miles. Chinese MIIT performed some interesting math and equated that to an estimated fuel equivalent of 2.6 L per 62 miles and an estimated cost of RMB 14.92 ($2.1) per 100 km.

Interestingly, the Cybertruck's classification as a passenger vehicle is a departure from the norm in China, where pickup trucks typically fall under the light trucks category. This difference could pave the way for wider adoption of the Cybertruck in the Chinese market.

Tesla still faces challenges in bringing the Cybertruck to China. CEO Elon Musk has previously acknowledged the difficulties in meeting China's and Europe's legal requirements for light trucks, particularly concerning pedestrian collision protection. Local reports suggest that Tesla is actively working on modifications to address these concerns.

Tesla showcased the Cybertruck in several Chinese cities in late January, putting emphasis on its crossover wagon attributes in an apparent attempt to downplay its pickup truck identity. Surprisingly, Tesla's China team was swift to deny rumors of the Cybertruck's imminent arrival in China.

The MIIT filing suggests that Tesla is still exploring the potential of the Cybertruck in the Chinese market. Its unique design and impressive performance specifications have generated significant interest globally. The Cybertruck going on sale in China would certainly help Tesla shift all unsold units piling up outside the factory and fix the demand issues it faces in the US.

Via