Tesla's new release of its Cybertruck has been headlining the news. However, amidst the excitement, some people aren't so sure it's as safe as it's advertised to be.
First buyers of the new Cybertruck already caused confusion when it was revealed with no door handles. Elon Musk had to demonstrate that the vehicle's doors open with the push of a button.
One man couldn't handle just seeing the fancy reveals online photos and instead, wanted to see the car up close for himself. He 'put down a $100 reservation' for the Cybertruck and surprised himself.
The man named Alistair Barr went to the Santana Row showroom in San Jose, California where the Tesla showcased its design.
Advert
Barr said the one thing that stood out most was the vehicle's sheer size.
The Cybertruck appeared significantly large on photos on video across social media.
But, Barr noted that it is 'slightly smaller compared to the prototype' and 'you can see it's more compact'. The 'Cyberbeast' does still surpass an F150 in length!
Advert
Another reservation holder, who paid for a higher-end ticket of $250, reported that the Cybertruck "looked better in person."
Barr mentioned that there's no grey area when it comes to your opinion of the Tesla vehicle: 'You either love the Cybertruck's angular look, or you think it's too big and dumb.'
However, the size of the vehicle is raising concerns with the European Transport Safety Council - a non profit organisation.
In one statement, they said: 'We hope Tesla don't bring this vehicle to Europe. A vehicle of this size, power and huge weight will be lethal to pedestrians and cyclists in a collision.'
Advert
Michael Brooks, the executive director of the Center for Auto Safety, wasn't shy of voicing his disdain for the Cybertruck either. Brooks highlighted the safety risk of pedestrians in collisions as the "injuries are much more traumatic in the case of larger, heavier vehicles."
And if the size alone wasn't enough to strike safety concerns, the fact that the futuristic Tesla model weighs 3.5 tonnes and has the acceleration of a Formula 1 car might!
Barr then drew attention to the vehicle's 'sharp corners' and thinks they 'might do some serious damage to anything that came into contact with them.' It doesn't help when the tonneau cover is up over the truck bay, meaning there's likely to be 'zero visibility' when reversing the vehicle.
Advert
Though, one salesperson said there are multiple cameras to help aid visibility when parking and reversing.
Despite the many safety concerns - and some experts dubbing it a 'death machine' - Musk reassures that the Cybertruck is 'extremely safe for its occupants.'
However, it's safe to say, not everyone - especially experts - aren't convinced.