Tesla released its Master Plan Part 4 on Monday. The accompanying video included brief flashes of additional Cybertruck-inspired designs leading to speculation about future launches.
I’ve traveled to design studios around the world and I’m familiar with designers creating sketches and clay models at brainstorming sessions and during internal competitions. And in this instance, the ‘Tesla Cyber SUV’ or ‘Tesla Cyber Van’ could just be that!
Hidden design studies
The clay models appear in the background in the scene that shows the shaping of a Tesla Cybercab front end. For a brief moment, at least two new Cybertruck-themed concepts appear on screen.
In total, four scale models are visible on the studio shelf. The far-left vehicle, partially covered by the plastic curtain, matches the look of the Cybertruck. On the far right was a more rounded model which could be a Model 3-like hatchback, with an aerodynamic silhouette.
The two models in the middle stand out, sporting the angular look and reflective body panels reminiscent of the Cybertruck but in different body shapes. One featured a more complete rear and a squared-off front, suggesting an SUV-like profile rather than a pickup. The other looked more like a minivan, a segment CEO Elon Musk has hinted at in the past, and one Tesla’s customers and fanbase have called for.
Cybervan connection?
Tesla has previously teased a van, most notably the Robovan concept shown alongside the Cybercab robotaxi in October 2023. The clay model could represent an early exploration of a “Cybervan,” created when designers were presenting platform derivatives during an exercise.
Unlikely to be produced
Despite the sightings, these interesting derivatives are unlikely to move forward to the production line. Our expectation is that Tesla’s engineering strategy is to carry forward many parts and modules developed for the Cybertruck will feature in future Tesla launches, but not the truck itself.
These include features such as Integrated Audio with Body Structure, 48-volt electrical architecture, an 800-volt battery system, Etherloop communication architecture, bidirectional charging, and steer-by-wire with rear-wheel steering. Tesla has also confirmed that its cold-rolled stainless steel architecture and the air-bending manufacturing method of the Cybertruck will not be used again.
Tesla’s Master Plan Part IV shifts focus toward AI, robotics, autonomy, and energy with the goal of creating “sustainable abundance,” indicating that these Cybertruck-derived designs will likely remain concepts only.
Featured Image: X/Tesla (upscaled and enhanced)
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 17 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading global CEOs and vehicle developers.
