Recent testing conducted by Car and Driver has highlighted the Tesla Cybertruck’s energy efficiency, particularly the impact of the tonneau cover’s open or closed position on the vehicle’s range.
The tests focused on the 834-hp tri-motor “Cyber Beast” model of the Cybertruck, outfitted with 35-inch all-terrain tires. Testers aimed to quantify the electric pickup’s energy use under varied configurations around a 6.6-mile oval track, maintaining a consistent speed to mitigate wind effects. The vehicle’s internal consumption meter provided real-time data, allowing for precise calculations of energy usage in kilowatt-hours per 100 miles.
Results from the experiment showed that with the tonneau cover securely closed, the Cybertruck consumed an average of 58.3 kilowatt-hours per 100 miles. Conversely, when the cover was opened, consumption increased to 64.2 kWh/100 mi, indicating a 10% rise in energy use.
This increase suggests a potential decrease in range, estimating a reduction from a 250-mile test result to approximately 225 miles with the tonneau open. Interestingly, opening the tailgate alongside the tonneau cover did not produce a significant change in consumption.
Further testing at a reduced speed of 65 mph with the tonneau cover closed presented a 15.4% decrease in consumption, dropping to 49.3 kWh/100 miles and suggesting an improved range of about 295 miles. This reinforced the notion that vehicle speed and aerodynamic efficiency are closely linked, especially in electric vehicles where energy conservation is paramount.
The Cybertruck’s aerodynamic design, featuring a subtly curved front and a rear end optimized for airflow, plays a crucial role in its efficiency. The inclusion of the roll-top tonneau cover as part of this design is evidently key to minimizing drag and maximizing range.
It wasn’t a surprise to figure out that having the tonneau cover closed would impact range, but now we have some specific numbers according to Car and Driver’s testing. Close that cover and you’ll get an extra 25 miles (40 km) of range at 75 mph (120 km/h).
