Tesla Looks to Outokump for Cybertruck's Tough Exterior
By Strategic Research Institute on Oct 13, 2023 11:26 am
Synopsis:
Tesla is reportedly in talks with Finnish stainless steel provider Outokumpu Oyj to source stainless steel panels for the upcoming Cybertruck, reports Teslarati. Outokumpu Oyj is known for its steel products and is a key player in Europe's stainless steel production. The Cybertruck's distinctive design features flat stainless steel panels, offering strength and corrosion resistance, albeit at a higher cost. These stainless steel panels may come from Outokumpu's Alabama plant, located approximately 650 miles from Tesla's Gigafactory Texas.
Article:
Tesla, the electric vehicle pioneer, is said to be in discussions with Finnish stainless steel provider Outokumpu Oyj, looking to secure stainless steel panels for its highly anticipated Cybertruck. Outokumpu Oyj holds a prominent position in Europe as a producer of stainless steel, supplying a range of industries, including the automotive sector.
The Cybertruck, a vehicle that has garnered attention for its unconventional design characterized by flat stainless steel panels, is poised to enter full-scale production later this year. The choice of stainless steel over regular steel, although more costly, offers exceptional strength and resistance to corrosion.
While the specifics of this deal have been kept private, individuals purportedly familiar with the matter, choosing to remain anonymous, have conveyed to Bloomberg News that Tesla might potentially obtain the steel for the Cybertruck from Outokumpu's plant in Calvert, Alabama. This facility is situated around 650 miles away from Tesla's Gigafactory Texas. It should be noted that Outokumpu may not be the sole supplier involved in furnishing steel for the Cybertruck.
Tesla's CEO, Elon Musk, has underscored the durability that the Cybertruck's stainless steel exterior will bring to the vehicle. Yet, stainless steel, although robust, presents challenges in manufacturing. This decision to employ stainless steel in the Cybertruck is considered one of the contributing factors to the delays in the production of this all-electric pickup truck.
Elon Musk himself acknowledged the intricacies involved in designing and building the Cybertruck. He described it as a "tough product to design" and even "tougher to build." This unique vehicle has pushed Tesla into uncharted territory, as it stands apart from anything else in the automotive market.
Early prototypes of the Cybertruck have been spotted in various locations, including Austin, Texas, the San Francisco Bay Area, New Zealand, and Iceland. Tesla has expressed its intention to host the first delivery event before the conclusion of 2023, though an exact date remains undisclosed.
When it finally hits the market, the Cybertruck will join a burgeoning category of electric pickup trucks, which includes contenders like the Ford F-150 Lightning, the GMC Hummer EV, and the Rivian R1T. While these electric pickups are yet to achieve mass production, the Cybertruck may appeal to a distinct demographic. Each of these vehicles caters to different aspects of the market, with the Rivian R1T offering a lifestyle-focused design, the Ford F-150 Lightning prioritizing utility, and the GMC Hummer EV adopting a more limited, novelty-like production approach.
Given the enduring popularity of pickup trucks in the United States, there appears to be ample room in the market for the Tesla Cybertruck alongside its counterparts, whether from newcomers like Rivian or established automakers such as Ford.
Conclusion:
Tesla's pursuit of Finnish steel supplier Outokumpu Oyj for the Cybertruck's stainless steel panels is a testament to the company's commitment to ensuring the vehicle's robust exterior. Outokumpu's standing as a key player in Europe's stainless steel production positions it as a suitable partner for this endeavor. The choice of stainless steel, despite its challenges in manufacturing, reflects Tesla's dedication to delivering a vehicle that stands out in the automotive landscape. As the Cybertruck inches closer to production, it is set to join a competitive market of electric pickup trucks, each catering to distinct segments of consumers in the United States. Tesla's unique offering is poised to make a mark in this ever-evolving automotive sector.
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