Tesla Cybertruck Lead Engineer Responds To Quarter-Mile Porsche Towing Controversy: 'Trailer Tires Were Only Rated To 80mph'

At the Cybertruck delivery event in late November, Tesla Inc. TSLA showcased its stainless steel electric truck towing a Porsche 911 while also winning a drag race against a Porsche 911. However, controversy arose when it was revealed that the Cybertruck covered only an eighth-mile, not a quarter mile.

What Happened: Cybertruck Lead Engineer Wes Morrill addressed the situation on X over the weekend after YouTuber Jason Fenske questioned the validity of the video, proving through mathematical analysis that the Cybertruck couldn’t simultaneously tow and outrun a Porsche 911. Morrill acknowledged Fenske’s video and clarified that the footage showed the most dramatic finish, not the best run as assumed.

Morrill disclosed that the Cybertruck’s fastest eighth-mile run while towing was 7.808s at 88 mph, limited by a trailer tire speed rating of 80 mph. Due to safety concerns, the team decided to end the race. Simulations indicated similar results for a full quarter-mile race, eliminating the need to test it on the track.

“Our simulations showed the full 1/4 mi race would be close but with the same net result, so no need to risk it. We also had some room to further lightweight the trailer but didn’t need to,” Morrill explained. “I’m glad this is so unbelievable that people care to do this analysis.”

Why It Matters: At the Nov. 30 delivery event, Elon Musk claimed, "It (Cybertruck) can tow a Porsche 911 across the 1/4 mile faster than the Porsche 911 can go by itself.” 

The confirmed eighth-mile distance has stirred discussion. Despite this revelation, the Cybertruck’s starting price of $79,990 is notably lower than the over $100,000 starting price of the Porsche 911. Additionally, the lowest-priced rear-wheel drive Cybertruck at $60,990 is expected to be available in 2025.

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Photo courtesy: Tesla