The Cybertruck’s Towing & Payload Specs: Less Than Initially Promised

Originally published in May 2021 titled ‘The Tesla Cybertruck Towing Capacity & Payload: A Closer Look,’ updated and republished in December 2023 with new info.

It’s been over four years since Elon Musk famously introduced the Cybertruck, and finally, we’re seeing this thing hitting the showroom floors along with some official specs. Now, it’s time to ask the real questions, like how much can the all-electric pickup tow? What’s the payload for those who need to get stuff done?

Cybertruck’s towing 3,000 pounds less than originally promised?

With an exterior made of scratch- and dent-resistant stainless steel, a towing capacity of up to 11,000 pounds, and a driving range of 340-plus miles, Tesla’s all-electric Cybertruck certainly can rival most top-selling pickup trucks on the market. In 2021, when we first posted this article, we stated the towing capacity at 14,000 pounds and electric range of 500-plus miles. Those were the figures we had. Despite being preproduction numbers, the official towing specs (and payload specs discussed more below) are not as high. Here are the new towing figures for each trim:

• Cyberbeast: 11,000 pounds
• All-Wheel Drive: 11,000 pounds
• Rear-wheel drive: 7,500 pounds

At the time, Tesla claimed the Single Motor Cybertruck would offer a maximum towing capacity of 7,500 pounds (still true with the RWD grade). The Dual Motor would pull 10,000 pounds, while the Tri Motor would tow a massive 14,000 pounds, with a payload capacity of 3,500 pounds. That said, Tesla’s EV pickup still boasts higher towing specs than its main competitors; here’s how it stacks up compared to key rivals.

Cybertruck towing compared to the rivals: Still at the top

The Atlis XT blows all EV trucks out of the water with its whopping 35,000 pounds towing capacity. Excluding this beast, the Cybertruck’s 11,000 pounds is respectable compared to its rivals, surpassing the more volume-selling models like the Ford F-150 Lightning and GM’s Sierra EV, Silverado EV, and Hummer EV pickup. However, the Ram 1500 EV beats them all at 14,000 pounds.

11,000 pounds vs. 14,000 pounds: Does it really matter?

Aside from the small stuff like jet skis, snowmobile trailers, and even car trailers weighing around 2,000 to 5,000 pounds give or take, at 11,000 pounds, the Cybertruck offers enough pulling power to handle more giant toys and equipment:

• Small construction equipment: Light construction equipment can range from 3,000 to 8,000 pounds.
• Horse trailers: Depending on size, horse trailers can weigh from 2,000 to 8,000 pounds.
• Small to medium-sized travel trailers: Can weigh anywhere from 3,000 to 8,000 pounds.

Or, as Tesla states on their website about the 11,000 pounds, “THE EQUIVALENT OF AN AVERAGE AFRICAN ELEPHANT.” Good to know, Elon. At 14,000 pounds towing capacity, as Tesla initially promised, here’s what Cybertruck owners miss out on:

1. Large Travel Trailers: Some larger travel trailers, especially those designed for extended living with multiple amenities, can weigh around 14,000 pounds.
2. Medium-Sized Boats: Depending on the size and type, certain medium-sized boats, such as larger cabin cruisers or fishing boats, can approach or reach 14,000 pounds.
3. Heavy Equipment Trailers: Trailers designed to transport heavy equipment, machinery, or construction materials may fall into the 14,000-pound range.
4. Car Hauler Trailers: Heavy-duty car hauler trailers capable of transporting multiple vehicles can have a gross weight around 14,000 pounds.

Cybertruck Payload: 1,000 pounds less than promised, but loads of storage

The payload is now rated at 2,500 pounds, down from the original 3,500 pounds. In practical terms, the payload capacity refers to the maximum weight the vehicle can carry, including passengers and cargo, without exceeding its specified limits. Whether the difference is a significant issue depends on individual use cases and requirements. If the reduced payload capacity aligns with the user’s needs, it might not be a major concern. However, for those who were counting on the higher payload for specific tasks, it could prompt a reevaluation of the vehicle’s suitability for their intended use.

Remember that the truck’s bed measures 6’X4′, which isn’t bad. Plus, there’s more storage in the frunk (front trunk), on the truck’s roof, and in a hidden gear locker, in addition to 67 cubic feet of lockage storage. Sure, the Cybertruck’s towing specs ‘are not as advertised.’ Still, even at 11,000 pounds now, that’s enough to make this jagged, futuristic-looking pickup a skillful weekend warrior to tow all those necessary toys. If you need real towing power, looking at the heavy-duty trucks is best.

Tesla Cybertruck Performance & Charging Specs: Cyberbeast, AWD, and RWD Grades