Auto expert Sandy Munro recently shared a behind-the-scenes tour of part of Tesla’s Cybertruck production line, offering insightful knowledge into the car’s construction process. In a YouTube video, Tesla VP of vehicle engineering Lars Moravy demonstrated how the electric-vehicle manufacturer forms some of the stainless steel panels for the Cybertruck at its gigafactory in Austin, Texas.
The stainless steel used in the creation of the Cybertruck starts as large coils, which are carefully unwound and flattened as part of the intricate process. Moravy explained that after this stage, the metal is cut to fit the shape of the individual parts of the car and stacked. Notably, the Cybertruck’s doors are 1.8 millimeters thick, while the rest of the truck is made out of 1.4 millimeter-thick metal. Tesla has reassured that the vehicle is thick enough to stop a bullet and has the option for fixed bulletproof glass windows, according to Elon Musk.
Commenting on the precision of the factory’s workmanship and thorough quality control, Moravy spoke about the skilled approaches adopted to meet the high standards set by Musk. Each part undergoes rigorous inspection to ensure that any variations in the truck would not escape keen observation.
Munro was taken through the factory’s hot stamping process and offered a glimpse at the truck’s exterior panels as they were bent into their final shape, displaying the meticulous techniques involved in the car’s production.
Notably, Tesla has already delivered a limited number of Cybertrucks and has ambitious production goals, aiming to eventually reach an annual production of about a quarter million Cybertrucks per year. Despite these aspirations, Musk has acknowledged that the vehicle faces unique production challenges due to its distinctive shape and stainless steel exterior, noting that no other carmaker has built a stainless steel vehicle on this scale since the release of the DeLorean in the 1980s.
This firsthand look at the Cybertruck production line offers valuable insights for automotive professionals and enthusiasts alike, shedding light on the intricacies involved in creating this groundbreaking vehicle. For those within the industry or possessing insider knowledge, you can contact the reporter at gkay@insider.com to share your insights or to collaborate on future developments.
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