The Tesla Cybertruck has been the subject of both fascination and criticism since its bold unveiling by Elon Musk in 2019. With its futuristic design, cutting-edge technology, and claims of being virtually indestructible, the Cybertruck has polarized the automotive world. One voice that has been particularly intriguing in this conversation is that of James May, the famously meticulous and insightful automotive journalist from Top Gear and The Grand Tour. In his honest review, May doesn’t hold back, offering a thorough analysis of the Cybertruck’s design, performance, and the broader implications of Tesla’s latest creation. Let’s dive into James May’s thoughts on the Cybertruck and what this means for the future of automotive design.
The First Impression: “It Looks Like Something from a Sci-Fi Movie”
James May is known for his cautious and thoughtful approach to automotive technology, so it’s no surprise that his first reaction to the Cybertruck was one of astonishment. According to May, the Cybertruck’s design immediately reminded him of the kinds of futuristic vehicles you’d see in a 1980s science fiction movie.
“It’s the kind of vehicle you’d expect to see in Blade Runner or some dystopian future where machines rule the world,” May said, underscoring the truck’s radically angular, geometric design. For him, the Cybertruck doesn’t look like anything else on the road today, and that’s where it both shines and stumbles.
He pointed out that Tesla has never been shy about breaking the mold, and the Cybertruck is no exception. The stainless steel body, for instance, deviates from traditional materials like aluminum or carbon fiber, offering a combination of durability and strength, but at the cost of aesthetics for some. May called it “brutal and unapologetic,” a vehicle that looks more like a concept car than something practical.
Bold Design: Love It or Hate It?
One of May’s most significant points of critique is the Cybertruck’s design. He openly questioned whether the angular, minimalist look is too polarizing for the mass market. “Design is subjective,” May said. “Some will love the Cybertruck for its audacity, but others will despise it for looking like a schoolboy’s sketch of the future.”
In a world where sleek curves and aerodynamic lines are often celebrated, the Cybertruck’s boxy, almost “Lego-like” aesthetic is a radical departure from industry norms. According to May, the design doesn’t just challenge the status quo—it almost mocks it. He mused that it’s as if Elon Musk wanted to make a statement that Tesla doesn’t follow anyone’s rules, even when it comes to what a truck should look like.
However, May also acknowledged that the Cybertruck’s design could appeal to those looking for something completely different, an alternative to the conventional pickups that dominate the market. “It’s the anti-truck truck,” he said, suggesting that it might just be the iconoclasts and the trendsetters who will gravitate toward the Cybertruck.
Performance and Capability: More Than Just a Pretty—or Ugly—Face
While the design is often the most discussed aspect of the Cybertruck, May was quick to shift the conversation toward performance. Tesla claims that the Cybertruck will be capable of achieving some remarkable feats: towing up to 14,000 pounds, hitting 0-60 mph in under 3 seconds (in the top model), and having a range of up to 500 miles on a single charge.
For May, these performance specs are where the Cybertruck truly stands out. “It’s not just a design experiment—it’s an engineering marvel,” May said. He acknowledged that while Tesla’s bold design choices may be divisive, the engineering behind the Cybertruck is impressive. From the triple-motor setup in the most powerful variant to its adaptive air suspension, the truck is more than capable of competing with traditional heavy-duty trucks on performance.
He also touched upon the off-road capability of the Cybertruck, mentioning that its ground clearance and rugged design make it more than just a pretty (or ugly, depending on your view) face. In May’s view, the Cybertruck is capable of both conquering the wilderness and navigating city streets, adding a layer of versatility that many traditional trucks may lack.
Durability: “Virtually Indestructible”
Perhaps one of the most talked-about aspects of the Cybertruck is its supposed “indestructibility.” The exoskeleton is made of ultra-hard 30X cold-rolled stainless steel, which is the same material used for SpaceX rockets. Tesla claims that the body is resistant to dents, scratches, and even gunfire.
May took a nuanced approach to this claim. “Indestructibility is a strong word,” he said, “but there’s no doubt that the Cybertruck is tougher than the average vehicle.” He noted that while the stainless steel body is impressive from a durability standpoint, it comes with its own set of challenges. For example, stainless steel can be difficult to repair, and the reflective surface might not age as gracefully as traditional painted metal.
May also humorously referenced the now-infamous moment when Tesla’s lead designer, Franz von Holzhausen, accidentally shattered the “armored glass” of the Cybertruck during its unveiling. “Let’s just say the glass isn’t as indestructible as the rest of the truck,” May quipped, although he did acknowledge that Tesla has since worked to address the issue.
Practicality: “Is This a Truck for Everyone?”
May’s review wasn’t all praise, as he raised important questions about the practicality of the Cybertruck. While the futuristic design and high-tech features are undeniably impressive, May wondered if the truck’s unusual look and premium price tag would make it a niche product rather than a mainstream success.
“How many people really need a truck that looks like it’s from Mars?” May asked. He suggested that the Cybertruck might appeal more to those who want to make a statement than to traditional truck buyers who prioritize function over form. For example, its large size could make it impractical for city driving, and its unconventional design might not be everyone’s cup of tea.
He also pointed out that the stainless steel body, while durable, could present challenges for repairs and maintenance. “It’s not going to be easy to fix a dent on that thing,” May joked, adding that traditional body shops might struggle with the truck’s unique material.
Tesla’s Impact on the Truck Market: “A Bold Gamble”
In May’s view, the Cybertruck is a bold gamble by Tesla. It challenges not only the design norms of trucks but also the expectations of what a truck can be. May admitted that while he personally might not be sold on the Cybertruck’s looks, its performance and technological innovations make it a serious contender in the truck market.
He also noted that the Cybertruck could push other manufacturers to think outside the box, encouraging more innovation in a segment that has historically been conservative in terms of design. “If nothing else, the Cybertruck will shake things up,” May said, suggesting that its influence might extend far beyond Tesla’s own lineup.
Conclusion: A Bold Step Forward or a Step Too Far?
In his typically measured style, James May’s review of the Tesla Cybertruck offers a balanced perspective. On one hand, he praised the Cybertruck’s engineering and performance, acknowledging that it represents a significant leap forward in terms of what electric trucks can do. On the other hand, he remained skeptical about the truck’s design, questioning whether its unconventional looks will appeal to a broad audience.
For May, the Cybertruck is a fascinating vehicle—one that defies expectations and challenges the status quo. Whether it will be a massive success or a niche product remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Tesla has once again forced the automotive industry to rethink what’s possible.
Ultimately, May’s review paints the Cybertruck as a vehicle that’s as audacious as it is innovative. It may not be for everyone, but for those who dare to be different, the Cybertruck could very well be the future of trucks.