The Tesla Cybertruck is off to a slow start in 2026, with new data showing the all-electric pickup posted its weakest quarterly sales since launching in late 2023—likely influenced in part by buyers holding out for a more affordable version that has yet to reach customers.
As we told you yesterday, Tesla delivered 3,519 Cybertrucks in the United States during the first quarter of 2026 according to data from Cox Automotive. That figure marks a steep 45.1% decline compared to the 6,406 units sold during the same period last year, and a 15% drop from the previous quarter’s total of 4,140 units.
The Q1 result is particularly notable as it represents the lowest quarterly sales for the Cybertruck since deliveries began in November 2023. However, despite the slowdown, there may be a key reason behind the weaker Q1 numbers—timing.
In February Tesla introduced its most affordable Cybertruck variant yet, initially announced at a starting price of $59,000 before being increased to $69,000 following strong demand. While interest in the new All-Wheel Drive (AWD) version appears to be high, with estimated deliveries extending into early 2027, it has yet to translate into deliveries.
Production and deliveries for the lower-cost Cybertruck are not expected to begin until June 2026, meaning the impact of this trim will likely not show up in sales data until the second half of the year. As a result, Q1 figures largely reflect demand for the more expensive All-Wheel Drive (AWD) variants.
This delay could be creating a temporary gap in demand, as some potential buyers may have placed order for the more affordable version, even if it means waiting several months for a delivery, rather than purchasing currently available trims.
Cybertruck sales have been under pressure since launch. While the vehicle generated significant attention and early reservation numbers, converting that interest into sustained deliveries has proven more challenging. In 2025, total U.S. Cybertruck sales came in just above 20,000 units, well below the installed production capacity at Giga Texas of 125,000 units annually, and less than half of the trucks 2024 sales at around 39,000 units.
Still, the coming quarters could tell a very different story for the Cybertruck. If Tesla can successfully ramp production of the cheaper AWD variant and meet pent-up demand, the Cybertruck could see a meaningful sales rebound in the second half of the year.
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