Cybertruck’s design is no experiment: Chief Designer Tesla

Tesla's Chief Designer, Franz von Holzhausen, defended the distinctive design of the Cybertruck during a presentation at the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles on Thursday, asserting that the unconventional appearance serves a strategic purpose for the brand.

"Love it or hate it, it's a conversation starter, and it gets people talking about the brand," Holzhausen said.

"Regardless of individual opinions, the design sparks dialogue and keeps the brand at the forefront of discussions," he remarked, as the museum prepared to incorporate Cybertruck models into its Tesla exhibit.

Initially introduced with a price tag of $60,990 — higher than CEO Elon Musk's 2019 projection — and with adjustments to its range specifications, the Cybertruck continues to attract interest from prospective buyers unfamiliar with truck ownership, von Holzhausen noted. 

"Its unique appearance doesn't hinder its potential to achieve significant sales volumes, especially given its competitive performance attributes," he added.

The angular aesthetics of the Cybertruck drew inspiration from various sources, including the Lamborghini Countach's aggressive design and Lockheed's F-117 Stealth Fighter jet. Von Holzhausen highlighted the challenges of working with stainless steel for the truck's exterior, underlining that the material's limitations shaped the vehicle's sharp angles.

(With Reuters inputs)