For years, the Tesla Cybertruck has been one of the most polarizing vehicles on the market. Some have hailed it as a revolutionary leap forward in truck design, while others have mocked its sharp, futuristic angles and stainless-steel body. But this week, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released its long-awaited crash test results—and the outcome is surprising.

Despite concerns about its bulky, rigid construction, the Cybertruck has officially earned a five-star overall safety rating, the highest possible score in NHTSA’s crash test program. However, that doesn’t mean the truck is free of controversy. Let’s dive into the results, what they mean for safety, and where the Cybertruck still falls short.

How the Cybertruck Scored in Crash Tests

The five-star rating puts the Cybertruck in elite company alongside other Tesla models, including the Model Y, Model 3, Model X, and Model S, all of which have also achieved five-star safety scores. However, not every part of the Cybertruck’s test was perfect.

Here’s how it performed in key crash scenarios:

Frontal Crash Test (Simulating a Head-On Collision)

• The Cybertruck received four out of five stars for passenger safety in a frontal crash.
• While Tesla’s Model Y and Model 3 outperformed it in this category, the truck still offers solid protection.

Side Crash Test (Intersection Collision & Fixed Object Impact)

• This was the Cybertruck’s strongest area, receiving five stars across the board.
• The truck excelled in simulated T-bone crashes and impacts with objects like trees and poles.

Rollover Resistance Test

• The Cybertruck earned four out of five stars, meaning it’s at slightly higher risk of rolling over compared to some SUVs.
• The test showed a 12% risk of rollover in a single-vehicle loss-of-control scenario.

Overall, these results suggest that while the Cybertruck offers impressive safety features, it still has some weak points in frontal impacts and rollover resistance.

What About Pedestrian Safety?

One major concern surrounding the Cybertruck has been pedestrian safety. Unlike traditional vehicles, its rigid, stainless-steel body lacks crumple zones, which could increase the risk of severe injuries in pedestrian collisions.

The NHTSA recently updated its safety ratings to include pedestrian impact testing, but the Cybertruck’s results did not include a pedestrian safety score. This omission raises questions about how well Tesla’s truck will perform in real-world accidents involving pedestrians or smaller vehicles.

According to NHTSA, vehicles that absorb impact energy and reduce hard points tend to perform better in pedestrian crash tests. Given the Cybertruck’s unyielding exterior, many safety experts are still wary of its real-world crash implications—especially for those outside the vehicle.

Tesla’s Safety Legacy & Cybertruck’s Controversies

Tesla is no stranger to five-star safety ratings. In fact, the Model Y, Model 3, Model X, and Model S have all achieved top marks in crash testing. However, the Cybertruck’s unique design and weight raise new concerns, particularly regarding how it interacts with smaller vehicles on the road.

Elon Musk himself has even joked about its dominance, stating at the 2023 Cybertruck delivery event:
“If you’re ever in an argument with another car, you will win.”

While that might sound great for Cybertruck drivers, it’s less reassuring for everyone else on the road.

Beyond crash test ratings, the Cybertruck’s rollout has been far from smooth:

• 7 active recalls (including for its windshield wiper and accelerator pedal issues).
• 2 ongoing NHTSA investigations related to safety concerns.
• 34 formal complaints from owners regarding various performance and software issues.

These ongoing challenges highlight that while the Cybertruck is undeniably unique, it still faces serious hurdles in proving its long-term reliability and safety.

How Does the Cybertruck Compare to Other Trucks?

The Tesla Cybertruck starts at $60,990 for the rear-wheel-drive model, with higher trims like the dual-motor ($79,990) and tri-motor “Cyberbeast” ($99,990) offering more power and performance.

Its closest competitors in the electric truck market include:

• Ford F-150 Lightning (Starting at $54,995) – The F-150 Lightning is America’s best-selling EV truck, offering a more traditional design and proven safety features.
• Rivian R1T (Starting at $69,900) – The Rivian R1T is a more adventure-focused EV pickup with impressive off-road capabilities.
• Chevrolet Silverado EV (Expected MSRP: $74,800) – Chevy’s entry into the electric truck segment promises longer range and traditional truck usability.

While the Cybertruck’s unique design and stainless-steel build set it apart, its high price, safety concerns, and recall issues could make competitors like the Ford F-150 Lightning a more reliable choice for buyers who prioritize practicality over futuristic styling.

Should You Buy a Cybertruck?

If you want a cutting-edge electric truck with unmatched road presence, the Cybertruck delivers. But if safety, reliability, and real-world usability are your top concerns, it might be worth considering alternatives like the Ford F-150 Lightning or Rivian R1T.

The Cybertruck’s five-star safety rating is impressive, but with missing pedestrian test results, active recalls, and its controversial design, it’s still a wild card in the EV truck space.

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