Cybertruck’s Aussie Arrival Edges Closer Than Ever

The Tesla Cybertruck, one of the most radical and talked-about electric vehicles in recent years, could finally be heading to Australia. With Tesla’s Australian team pushing hard to make a case for its local launch, there’s growing confidence that the futuristic electric ute will land Down Under as early as 2026.

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Tesla’s Push to Bring the Cybertruck to Australia

Tesla Australia’s country director, Thom Drew, has revealed that the company is actively advocating for a right-hand-drive version of the Cybertruck. Speaking with EV Central, Drew expressed confidence in the vehicle’s arrival, though he acknowledged hurdles to overcome.

Tesla has already imported multiple Cybertrucks for evaluation, including one showcased at Sydney’s Everything Electric expo. The vehicle’s national tour has generated intense public interest, with one question dominating the conversation: “When can I buy one?” Drew said Australian enthusiasm for the Cybertruck has been “very, very strong.”

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However, Tesla faces some commercial and regulatory challenges. The Cybertruck’s compliance with Australian Design Rules (ADR) goes beyond simply swapping the steering wheel. Additional modifications are required, and crucially, the business case needs to make sense. Since Australia would likely be the only right-hand-drive market for the Cybertruck, Tesla must determine whether projected sales volumes justify the investment in engineering and production.

Why the Cybertruck Could Disrupt Australia’s Ute and SUV Market

If Tesla can bring the Cybertruck here, it won’t just target traditional ute buyers. While large pickups like the RAM 1500, Chevrolet Silverado, Ford F-150, and Toyota Tundra would be direct competitors, Drew suggests the Cybertruck’s appeal extends beyond the traditional workhorse segment.

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With its futuristic design, stainless steel body, and Tesla’s signature technology, the Cybertruck can also attract large SUV buyers. In the U.S., it has proven to be more than just a niche pickup, drawing in customers who might otherwise consider vehicles like the Toyota LandCruiser or Nissan Patrol. For Tesla to justify bringing the Cybertruck to Australia, it needs this broader market appeal.

Pricing and Tax Benefits: How Much Will It Cost?

The Cybertruck isn’t cheap. In the U.S., pricing starts at around US$80,000 for the dual-motor variant, with a more expensive tri-motor model also available. Converted to Australian dollars, the entry-level version is roughly $130,000.

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However, there’s a potential pricing advantage. Unlike high-end electric SUVs, the Cybertruck could be classified as a commercial vehicle, allowing it to sidestep Australia’s luxury car tax (LCT). This would make it more competitively priced against high-end petrol and diesel utes, potentially making it an attractive alternative to premium off-roaders.

So, When Will We Know for Sure?

Tesla hasn’t officially reopened Cybertruck pre-orders in Australia. Still, the fact that deposits from early reservations (between 2019 and 2021) haven’t been refunded suggests the company is serious about bringing it here. Drew hinted that a decision could be made soon, possibly within the year.

“If all things went really well and a decision was ready to be made this year, maybe next year,” he said, cautiously optimistic about the timeline.

For now, Australian buyers will have to wait and see. But if Tesla gives the green light, the Cybertruck could be on our roads in 2026. Watch this space!