The strange case of Tesla Cybertrucks and rejected trade-ins

A year after the start of deliveries, the company is not accepting used pick-ups in exchange for new ones, even though it should: what's going on

Tesla Cybertruck

By: Hugo Pommier

Published by: Brian Potter

Jan 26, 2025 at 2:59am ET

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Tesla versus Tesla customers. There is a clash between Elon Musk's company and some owners of the Cybertruck, the edgy electric pick-up truck which started delivery in the United States from the end of 2023. According to foreign press reports, the manufacturer is refusing trade-in requests for the vehicle.

This is unheard of for the company, which historically even accepts combustion cars from other brands. But apparently not the Cybertruck. Therefore, it is not possible to return the pick-up and buy another Tesla. Why?

Terms and conditions

A few months ago, the manufacturer explained that the model was still too 'fresh' and that it preferred to sell new models rather than take back used ones, even if they were in perfect or near perfect condition.

Gallery: Tesla Cybertruck, the edgy cars that inspired it

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Some fans had defended the company's decision by pointing out that the purchase contract for a Cybertruck 'Foundation Series' blocks the resale of the vehicle for one year, with a few exceptions. Ironically, the clause also excludes trade-ins with Tesla itself.

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Goal: Free Supercharging for life

Now, however, the first year has passed and the company's policy has not changed. And, even more ironically, it seems that many motorists wanted to replace their Cybertruck Foundation Series with another Cybertruck Foundation Series. The aim would be to take advantage of the benefits the manufacturer offers new customers to get rid of unsold examples. One of these is the free lifetime Supercharger access.

It is hard to understand why free charging would entice so many drivers to spend $20,000 on a new pick-up: it would take tens of thousands of miles to recoup the investment. The fact remains that Tesla's refusal is rather strange.