Tesla Officially Cancels the Cybertruck Range Extender

Tesla has just pulled the plug on one of its most anticipated Cybertruck accessories, the $16,000 Range Extender. After quietly removing it from the online configurator, Tesla confirmed this week that the product is no longer happening and full refunds will be issued to those who pre-ordered it.

What Was the Range Extender?

The Range Extender was supposed to be a large auxiliary battery that could be added to the Cybertruck to boost its driving range from the max 340 miles (later revised to 325) to around 470 miles. At one point, Tesla said the accessory would help hit the original 500-mile target it promised when unveiling the truck in 2019. But there were trade-offs: it would take up about one-third of the truck bed’s space and still cost an eye-watering $16K.

Over time, expectations started to shrink. By late 2024, Tesla admitted the extender would only bump the range to 445 miles, but the price remained the same. Tesla said to expect it in mid-2025, until this week, when the company quietly gave up on it altogether.

What Tesla Said

Here’s the message sent to reservation holders:

“We are no longer planning to sell the Range Extender for Cybertruck. As a result, we will be refunding your deposit in full.”

No explanation. No replacement product. Just a refund.

Why This Matters

This isn’t just about one accessory. It’s about a promise Tesla couldn’t keep. The Cybertruck has already underdelivered in key areas like range and price. Originally, Tesla hyped up a tri-motor version with over 500 miles of range for $70K. The current top model comes in at $99,990 and offers just 301 miles.

Now, with the Range Extender scrapped, Tesla has no built-in solution for owners who planned to tow heavy loads or take long trips. 

What’s Next?

Tesla hasn’t explained the reasoning behind the cancellation, but there are a few theories:

• Ongoing issues with the 4680 battery cells.

• Weight or safety concerns with the extender.

• Low Cybertruck demand (it’s reportedly sitting on a 3-month supply).

Whatever the reason, it’s clear Tesla’s road to revolutionizing trucks is bumpier than expected.

Credit: Original reporting by Rob Stumpf for InsideEVs.