The Tesla Cybertruck may be expanding to more markets beyond North America soon, but drivers hoping to see the stainless-steel pickup on German roads are out of luck, after the U.S. Army Customs Agency confirmed that the futuristic vehicle cannot be imported or registered in Germany—or anywhere else in the European Union—due to strict safety regulations.
EU Safety Standards Block the Cybertruck
The Cybertruck has not received European type-approval, the certification required for vehicles to be legally operated in EU member states. According to the release, regulators flagged “significant passive safety concerns” tied to the truck’s design. The sharp, angular stainless-steel bodywork, along with its heavy curb weight, violate multiple EU requirements intended to protect pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists.
This is despite the Cybertruck achieving a 5-star safety rating in the U.S.
European law mandates that vehicles include impact protection zones, avoid dangerous sharp edges, and incorporate speed limiters if they exceed 3.5 tons. The Cybertruck, as the release points out, “clearly violated” these rules.
U.S. Army Request Rejected
This news comes thanks to U.S. service members stationed overseas, who submitted a request to the German Federal Ministry of Transport (FMoT) asking whether the Cybertruck could be allowed under the existing USAREUR-AF system, which sometimes permits non-EU-compliant vehicles.
The request was denied. Officials stated that the Cybertruck “not only fails to meet the EU legal requirements but deviates significantly from them,” emphasizing that “safe operation in German public road traffic…is not ensured.” This means that unlike some other American-spec vehicles, the Cybertruck cannot receive an exemption or individual approval.
Security Concerns Add to the Ban
Beyond safety, German authorities also expressed concerns about the Cybertruck’s unusual appearance. The distinctive design, coupled with its well-known lack of legal standing in Europe, would make the vehicle highly noticeable on the road. Officials warned this would undermine the purpose of USAREUR-AF license plates, which are designed to provide discretion for American military personnel and reduce security risks.
What It Means for U.S. Soldiers
For service members stationed in Germany, the decision leaves no room for exceptions. The Customs Agency stressed that it “will not issue import certificates for Tesla Cybertrucks.” Personnel who nonetheless attempt to ship one overseas will be responsible for the costs of returning it to the United States.
You can read the full release below.
