Latest news with #Tesla-manufactured
Economic Times
a day ago
- Automotive
- Economic Times
US Air Force eyes ‘apocalypse-proof' Tesla Cybertrucks; here's why
Synopsis The US Air Force plans to acquire two Tesla Cybertrucks to serve as missile targets during precision testing, driven by concerns that adversaries might adopt similar vehicles. The Cybertruck's unique design, stainless steel exoskeleton, and advanced electrical system make it a relevant training target. This acquisition is linked to SOCOM's missile program, aiming to simulate real-world scenarios. Agencies Elon Musk's Tesla Cybertruck The US Air Force is looking to acquire two Tesla Cybertrucks — not for transportation, but to use as missile targets during precision testing and to contracting documents reviewed by The War Zone, the Air Force Test Centre (AFTC) wants the vehicles because of the possibility that 'unspecified adversaries' could deploy similar models in the near future. The Cybertrucks are part of a larger order of 33 target vehicles to be delivered to the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico, alongside sedans, pickups, SUVs, and bongo trucks, though without specific brand requirements for other types.'Market research was conducted to assess the competition for the Tesla Cybertruck by evaluating its design, materials, impact resistance, and innovative technologies,' the document stated. 'The study revealed that the Cybertruck's aggressively angular and futuristic design, paired with its unpainted stainless steel exoskeleton, sets it apart from competitors typically using painted steel or aluminium bodies.' The Air Force's contract specifications note that the Cybertrucks need not be in working condition but must be capable of being roll-towed. They should be delivered with all fluids document explains that the service 'intends to use specific Tesla-manufactured vehicles for target vehicle training flight test events. In the operating theatre, it is likely the type of vehicles used by the enemy may transition to Tesla Cyber trucks [sic] as they have been found not to receive the normal extent of damage expected upon major impact. Testing needs to mirror real-world situations. The intent of the training is to prep the units for operations by simulating scenarios as closely as possible to the real-world situations.'It also cites the vehicle's electrical system: 'Additionally, its 48V electrical architecture provides superior power and efficiency, a feature that rivals are only beginning to develop. Extensive internet searches and industry outreach by [redacted] found no vehicles with features comparable to those of the Cybertruck.'The request is linked to the US Special Operations Command's (SOCOM) Stand Off Precision Guided Munitions (SOPGM) program, which includes air-launched missiles such as the AGM-114 Hellfire and the GBU-69/B Small Glide Munition. Tesla's Cybertruck, touted by CEO Elon Musk as 'apocalypse-proof' and known for its bullet-resistant stainless steel design, has attracted both praise and criticism since its release. Despite its $80,000 price tag, it has faced recalls, quality concerns, and slowing sales.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Time of India
US Air Force wants Elon Musk-led Tesla's Cybertrucks for this reason; official documents say: ‘Market research was conducted to assess…'
Representative Image The US Air Force is looking to acquire two Tesla Cybertrucks to use as targets for precision missiles during testing and training. The Air Force Test Centre (AFTC) needs these specific vehicles due to the possibility of "unspecified adversaries" using them in the coming days. According to online contracting documents (as seen by The War Zone), the Cybertrucks are part of a larger purchase of 33 target vehicles the AFTC is looking to have delivered to the White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) in New Mexico. The document explained: 'Market research was conducted to assess the competition for the Tesla Cybertruck by evaluating its design, materials, impact resistance, and innovative technologies. The study revealed that the Cybertruck's aggressively angular and futuristic design, paired with its unpainted stainless steel exoskeleton, sets it apart from competitors typically using painted steel or aluminium bodies.' The AFTC's shopping list also includes other sedans, bongo trucks, pickups, and SUVs, though without specific brand requirements. What US Air Force said about its Tesla Cybertruck requirements As per the contract documents, the US Air Force explicitly requires Cybertrucks that don't need to be in working condition, but must be capable of being roll-towed behind another vehicle. The Cybertrucks should also be delivered with all fluids drained. In the documents, the US Air Force wrote that it 'intends to use specific Tesla-manufactured vehicles for target vehicle training flight test events. In the operating theatre, it is likely the type of vehicles used by the enemy may transition to Tesla Cyber trucks [sic] as they have been found not to receive the normal extent of damage expected upon major impact. Testing needs to mirror real-world situations. The intent of the training is to prep the units for operations by simulating scenarios as closely as possible to the real-world situations.' by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Back Pain Treatments That Might Surprise You! Back Pain Treatment | Search Ads Undo 'Additionally, its 48V electrical architecture provides superior power and efficiency, a feature that rivals are only beginning to develop. Extensive internet searches and industry outreach by [redacted] found no vehicles with features comparable to those of the Cybertruck,' the document added. The report also claimed that the primary purpose of all these vehicles is to support the US Special Operations Command's (SOCOM) Stand Off Precision Guided Munitions (SOPGM) program and related training. This program includes various air-launched precision-guided missiles like the AGM-114 Hellfire and the GBU-69/B Small Glide Munition (SGM). The Cybertruck is known for its bullet-resistant design, while Tesla CEO Elon Musk has made "apocalypse-proof" claims for the vehicle. However, it has faced criticism over performance, safety, build quality, and ownership terms. Despite its $80,000 price tag, it has seen recalls, controversies, and reports of declining sales. Oppo Pad SE | Budget Android Tablet with Practical Features AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
