Tesla Drops Cybertruck in ANZ

Tesla has stopped plans to sell the Cybertruck in Australia and New Zealand.

The company notified reservation holders via email that production of the right-hand drive vehicle for those markets has ended. It will not be building the truck for the region. Customers who placed reservations in 2019 will receive their deposits back. The refund will be processed within 30 days of the confirmation email.

Tesla is offering a free year of Full Self-Driving access to customers who buy a new Model 3 or Model Y. This applies to those affected by the cancellation. The offer serves as compensation for the delayed delivery.

The Cybertruck has not reached Australia or New Zealand since it began shipping to early US buyers in 2023. The Texas factory was not configured to build right-hand drive models. This mechanical limitation prevented legal sale in countries that drive on the left side of the road. The same issue blocks sales in the United Kingdom, Japan, and Ireland.

European regulators have not approved the Cybertruck for the EU market. Officials cite safety concerns regarding the vehicle's design. The truck lacks standard crumple zones and pedestrian safety features. Its sharp stainless steel edges pose a risk to people on foot. The US Army Customs Agency confirmed these violations in a recent notification.

The Army stated that the stiff body violates EU standards for vulnerable road user protection. This official assessment mirrors the concerns of civilian regulators. It explains why the vehicle has not received broad regulatory clearance in Europe.

Some Cybertrucks are currently driving in Europe. Owners achieved this through individual single-vehicle approvals. They modified the trucks to meet local safety rules. This workaround allowed specific vehicles to enter the market despite the lack of a general type approval.