Tesla presents affordable RWD Cybertruck & launches in Saudi Arabia

Tesla is currently making headlines with two major announcements. On one hand, the company is now active in Saudi Arabia – Tesla vehicles are now available for direct sale. On the other hand, Tesla will introduce the Long Range Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) Cybertruck, which differs from the All-Wheel Drive (AWD) variant with a reduced feature package and adjusted specifications.

Launch in Saudi Arabia

Tesla is expanding into Saudi Arabia for the first time and will soon offer the Cybertruck there alongside the updated Model 3 and Model Y – initially, however, as a more affordable RWD version. This expansion marks an important step to gain new customers in a growing market and strengthen the brand's global reach.

The Long Range RWD Cybertruck – Innovative Savings and New Specs

The new Long Range RWD Cybertruck was presented on the Tesla website in the Middle East and comes with some significant differences compared to the AWD variant:

Range:
- LR RWD: approx. 350 miles (563 km)
- LR AWD: approx. 325 miles (523 km)*
  *(Note: The Foundation-Series Cybertruck AWD is specified with up to 560 km range.)
Towing Capacity & Weight:
- LR RWD: Towing Capacity 3,402 kg, Total Weight 2,775 kg
- LR AWD: Towing Capacity 4,990 kg, Total Weight 3,009 kg
Acceleration & Top Speed:
- LR RWD: 0-100 km/h in 6.6 seconds, Top Speed: 112 mph (180 km/h)
- LR AWD: 0-100 km/h in 4.3 seconds, Top Speed: 112 mph (180 km/h)
Ground Clearance:
- LR RWD: Max. Ground Clearance 243 mm
- LR AWD: Max. Ground Clearance 406 mm

A distinctive feature of the RWD Cybertruck is the reduced feature package:

No air suspension & no rear screen:
To reduce costs, the expensive air suspension and rear screen were removed. Instead, a conventional, more cost-effective suspension is used.
New wheel design:
The LR RWD Cybertruck optionally offers 18-inch wheels with a Cybertruck-typical hex design and aero covers, emphasizing the futuristic appearance.

This reduction in extras aims to make the Cybertruck more appealing to buyers who are primarily interested in a cost-efficient work taxi or a robust utility vehicle, without relying on all high-end off-road features.

Production prospects in North America

Although the Cybertruck has so far been primarily presented in the international market, such as in Saudi Arabia, it is expected that production at Giga Texas will soon start for the RWD Cybertruck in North America. This could enable Tesla to offer attractive prices here as well and open access to a broader customer segment.

Conclusion

With the introduction of the more affordable Long Range RWD Cybertruck and entry into the Saudi market, Tesla is making clear moves to remain competitive and capture new market shares. By focusing on a reduced feature package and optimized production costs, the Cybertruck is intended to be particularly appealing to buyers looking for a powerful yet more affordable electric truck. Tesla continues to be a pioneer in electromobility – and these innovations show that the company is responding flexibly to market conditions.