The Tesla Cybertruck launch event was full of surprises, but one of the most unexpected reveals was the Cybertruck Range Extender. This additional battery pack, designed to fit in the truck bed, wasn’t mentioned during the official presentation, leaving many to wonder about its purpose and capabilities. However, information is slowly emerging, and it’s clear that this Cybertruck range extender is a significant component for owners planning to maximize their electric truck’s utility, especially for towing and long-distance travel.
This range extender essentially acts as a supplementary battery, boosting the Cybertruck’s range and addressing concerns about charging frequency, particularly in cold climates or during demanding tasks. But beyond simply increasing mileage, the Cybertruck range extender opens up intriguing possibilities, reminiscent of Tesla’s earlier exploration of battery swapping technology. Its design and integration could even pave the way for incorporating diverse energy sources in the future.
The Silent Introduction of the Range Extender
It remains unclear whether the omission of the range extender from the Cybertruck’s launch presentation was intentional or an oversight. Regardless, its significance is undeniable. For many, the Cybertruck range extender is the key to unlocking the originally anticipated 500-mile range for the vehicle.
Tesla Cybertruck website showing range extender bringing range to "470+ miles"
Tesla’s website indicates that the Range Extender elevates the mid-level Cybertruck’s range to “470+ miles.” This implies an addition of over 130 miles to the standard battery capacity. Considering the Cybertruck’s estimated efficiency of 2.7 miles per kWh with its primary 123kWh battery (providing 340 miles of range), the range extender likely offers approximately 47kWh of extra capacity.
Range Extender: A Clever Strategy for Tax Incentives?
Tesla’s strategic move to offer a portion of the 500-mile battery capacity as an external range extender might be linked to pricing and tax credit eligibility. By keeping the base price of the Cybertruck just under $80,000, Tesla ensures that most buyers qualify for the $7,500 federal tax credit in the US. This substantial saving can effectively offset the cost of the range extender, allowing owners to achieve the desired 500-mile range with government support.
Furthermore, while a 500-mile range offers peace of mind, the reality is that many Cybertruck owners may not require it for their daily driving needs. The range extender provides a flexible solution, enabling customers to purchase the base model and later opt for extended range as needed. This “see how it goes” approach with the standard range, supplemented by the option to add a Cybertruck range extender later, could broaden the Cybertruck’s appeal to a wider customer base.
Decoding the Cybertruck Range Extender’s Weight and Size
A 47kWh battery pack is substantial, comparable in size to the entire battery of some medium-range electric vehicles. Estimating its weight is crucial. Referencing the Tesla Model Y’s 4680 battery pack, which weighs approximately 1000 pounds for a 75kWh capacity, we can infer the Cybertruck range extender’s weight. Scaling down proportionally, a 47kWh pack would likely weigh around 660 to 700 pounds, considering the additional weight from its casing, interface components, and rugged design necessary for truck bed installation and safety.
This considerable weight has implications. Firstly, the Cybertruck range extender is not a lightweight accessory easily installed by one person. It will likely require specialized equipment like a hydraulic jack or forklift for installation, or potentially be a factory-installed option. Secondly, its weight will impact the Cybertruck’s performance, similar to the effect of carrying several passengers. Tesla engineers must also ensure robust mounting and safety mechanisms to prevent this heavy object from becoming a hazard in collisions.
The Cost Question: How Much Will the Range Extender Set You Back?
Official pricing for the Cybertruck range extender remains unannounced by Tesla. However, digging into the website’s source code has revealed a potential price tag of $16,000.
While this figure is speculative, it does suggest a premium cost for the added range. Assuming Tesla’s 4680 battery cell production cost is around $100/kWh, the raw battery cost for a 47kWh pack would be approximately $4,700. The remaining $11,000 would then cover packaging, manufacturing, and Tesla’s profit margin.
This price point might seem steep for some, especially considering it’s nearly a third of the base Cybertruck’s price. A more competitive price, perhaps under $10,000, could significantly increase the Cybertruck range extender’s appeal, particularly for owners who frequently tow or require extended range.
Optional pack that fits in about 1/3 of the truck bed. Still room for plenty of of cargo.
It’s meant for very long trips or towing heavy things up mountains.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) November 30, 2023
Beyond Range: Exploring the Potential of the Cybertruck Range Extender
With estimated specifications and potential pricing in mind, we can explore the broader implications of the Cybertruck range extender. Its interface is likely more sophisticated than just a simple DC plug, given the need for thermal management and battery management system integration.
Conceptual image of Cybertruck bed with potential range extender and cargo space
Range Extender as a Mobile Powerwall?
One intriguing possibility is utilizing the Cybertruck range extender as a standalone power source when not needed for extended range. Imagine storing it in your garage and using it as a large-capacity Tesla Powerwall, providing backup power during outages or even participating in grid services. Then, when planning a long trip or a towing adventure, simply load it into the Cybertruck bed for extended range, and upon arrival at a remote destination, it could function as a Powerwall for off-grid power needs.
Reviving Battery Swapping with Range Extenders?
Tesla previously experimented with battery swapping for the Model S in 2015, aiming for faster battery replacement than refueling. While the program was discontinued due to the rapid advancements in charging speeds and battery technology, the Cybertruck range extender could potentially revive the battery swapping concept in a new form.
If Cybertruck adoption becomes widespread, Tesla could establish range extender swap stations. Using forklifts, these stations could quickly install a range extender, adding 130 miles of range in minutes. Multiple units could even be swapped simultaneously for even greater range boosts. Strategic locations at the base of mountains or on the outskirts of remote areas could cater to specific travel needs.
Alternatively, instead of purchasing a Cybertruck range extender, owners could rent one for occasional trips requiring extended range. Tesla stores or third-party providers could offer rental services, and automated swap stations, possibly utilizing Tesla Optimus robots in the future, could streamline the process.
Expanding Range Extender Options and Energy Sources
The Cybertruck range extender’s interface, if bidirectional (as charging functionality would necessitate), could also serve as a high-power DC output. This could enable Cybertruck owners to fast-charge other electric vehicles, such as ATVs, boats, or motorcycles, at a much faster rate than standard Level 2 charging.
Furthermore, the modular nature of the range extender concept opens doors to various battery capacities. Tesla could offer different range extender sizes, from a smaller 50-mile option for emergency situations to larger 250 or 500-mile versions.
Beyond batteries, the interface could potentially accommodate other energy sources. Tesla’s planned solar tonneau cover could utilize this interface, albeit providing a limited but continuous trickle charge. More radically, third-party developers could explore alternative power modules like hydrogen fuel cell generators or even, hypothetically, combustion engine generators for extreme range needs in off-grid scenarios.
Community Perspective: Top Comment on the Range Extender
Connor Paull:
Liked by 18 people
In order to get to the range and rough specs for what Tesla originally announced as their $50k, dual motor model, you have to pay 80k for the truck + an additional 16k for a massive, cumbersome battery pack that takes up a lot of the storage capacity. So basically it’s twice the cost from what Tesla originally promised.
As far as I’ve heard, Tesla has not said you can use the pack as a power wall replacement. They have not announced any additional range extender packs. They have not announced any attempt at battery swapping, even for these range extenders.
This entire article is copium trying to justify this ridiculous, expensive, massively cumbersome battery pack, and more generally the CTs failure to actually deliver the spec it promised.
The top comment highlights a key concern: the added cost and bulk of the Cybertruck range extender. It raises valid questions about the overall value proposition and whether it aligns with initial expectations for the Cybertruck. While the range extender offers significant functionality, its price and practicality remain subjects of debate and are crucial factors for potential Cybertruck owners to consider.
In conclusion, the Cybertruck range extender is a fascinating and multifaceted addition to Tesla’s electric truck. It addresses range limitations, offers potential tax benefits, and hints at innovative future applications. However, questions regarding its cost, weight, and real-world usability persist. As more details emerge, the Cybertruck range extender will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the Cybertruck ownership experience and the future of electric truck capabilities.
