Tesla is tightening its grip on the exclusivity of its highly anticipated Cybertruck. A newly introduced Cybertruck Only clause in Tesla’s sales agreement unequivocally forbids buyers from reselling their newly acquired electric pickup within the first year without explicit authorization, under threat of a formidable $50,000 fine.
As the first Cybertruck deliveries loom on Nov. 30, Tesla proactively updated its car ordering agreement to include stringent resale provisions. The company asserts its right to pursue legal action, including seeking injunctions to prevent ownership transfer, against buyers who breach the resale restriction. Engadget reports that Tesla may impose a fine of $50,000 or the entire resale value, whichever is greater, as a deterrent. Further consequences loom for offending resellers, who could find themselves barred from future Tesla purchases.
Tesla, while maintaining a firm stance, hints at flexibility by suggesting exceptions for those seeking to sell their Cybertruck within the first year. However, this requires written consent from the automaker. Approved resales will be subject to two options: a Tesla buyback at a reduced price, factoring in mileage at $0.25 per mile, depreciation, and necessary repairs, or permission to resell to a third-party buyer.
This stringent policy reflects Tesla’s strategy to safeguard the uniqueness of the Cybertruck, initially available to a select few customers. With mass production not slated until 2024, Tesla aims to deter opportunistic resellers seeking to capitalize on the scarcity of the groundbreaking vehicle. Tesla’s resolute stance underscores a paradigm shift in how automakers protect the perceived value and scarcity of their cutting-edge products in a rapidly evolving market.
