Tesla's (TSLA, Financials) Cybertruck is off to a rocky start. Fewer than 40,000 units were sold in 2024, far below Elon Musk's projection of 250,000, Forbes reported. Overall deliveries also fell 13% in the first quarter of 2025 to 337,000 vehicles.

The truck has faced eight recalls in just over a year, including one for falling body panels. Safety issues have blocked sales in some overseas markets due to noncompliance with pedestrian protection standards.

Pricing has doubled from the original $39,900 promise. The base model now starts at $82,235, while the high-end Cyberbeast costs $105,735too high to qualify for tax credits. Tesla reportedly has about $200 million in unsold inventory, according to Electrek.

Production has also been a challenge. The Cybertruck uses stainless steel to avoid a paint shop, but the material is hard to shape and smudges easily. Unlike other Teslas, it doesn't share components with other models, raising costs and complexity.

Critics say the truck overlooks core features traditional buyers want, like off-road performance and practical storage. Viral videos show Ford (F, Financials) and GM (GM, Financials) pickups towing disabled Cybertrucks.

The design has sparked mockery online. A subreddit with over 280,000 members tracks breakdowns and complaints. Musk, who admitted he does zero market research, prioritized style over utilitya decision that may be backfiring.