Tesla returns $2,000 to ANZ buyers after dropping Cybertruck

Tesla is refunding $2,000 deposits to customers in Australia and New Zealand who reserved a Cybertruck seven years ago. The electric truck maker confirmed in an email to reservation holders that its plans to produce the vehicle for those markets have been discontinued.

The company stated it will process all refunds within 30 days of customers receiving a confirmation email with their specific details. As a supplementary benefit, Tesla is offering one year of free Full Self-Driving (Supervised) access to anyone who places an order for a new Model 3 or Model Y.

The decision stems from manufacturing constraints at Tesla’s Texas facility. Sources told Drive Australia that the factory was not configured to build right-hand drive vehicles when deliveries began in 2023. Without a right-hand drive configuration, the Cybertruck cannot legally operate on public roads in Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Japan, or Ireland.

The lack of a right-hand drive option also prevents the truck from entering the European Union. Tesla has not secured regulatory approval in Europe, and the vehicle faces hurdles regarding crumple zones, pedestrian safety, lighting, and weight classifications. The truck’s sharp edges are considered a specific hazard to vulnerable road users.

US military personnel have encountered similar barriers. The US Army Customs Agency noted that the Cybertruck’s stiff, stainless-steel body violates EU safety standards. This notification explains why the vehicle has not been officially adopted by the Army in the region.

A small number of Cybertrucks have appeared in Europe through individual exceptions. Owners secured single-vehicle approvals by modifying their trucks to meet local regulatory requirements.