The Tesla Cybertruck is perhaps one of modern memory’s most hyped, or perhaps even over-hyped, cars. Whilst this car has been plagued with issues and Elon Musk’s involvement with the Trump Administration in 2025 has impacted Tesla’s overall sales, it still remains unavailable for purchase in Australia, primarily due to regulatory challenges, production limitations, and design constraints.
Here are some of the major factors as to why the Tesla Cybertruck has not yet reached Australian shores:
Left-Hand Drive Configuration
The Cybertruck is currently manufactured exclusively in a left-hand drive (LHD) configuration, tailored for markets like the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Tesla has not developed a right-hand drive (RHD) version, which is essential for Australian roads. The cost and complexity of redesigning the vehicle for RHD markets are significant, especially given Australia’s relatively small automotive market compared to the U.S..
Regulatory and Safety Standards
Australia has stringent vehicle safety and design standards. The Cybertruck’s unique design, including its stainless-steel exoskeleton and steer-by-wire system, poses challenges in meeting these standards. Additionally, the vehicle’s design raises concerns regarding pedestrian safety, which is a critical aspect of Australian vehicle regulations.
Production Priorities
Tesla is currently focusing on fulfilling the substantial demand for the Cybertruck in North America. With over two million reservations, the company is prioritising deliveries in its primary markets before considering expansion into regions like Australia.
Importing the Cybertruck to Australia
While it’s technically possible to import a Cybertruck into Australia, several hurdles make it impractical for everyday use:
- Compliance Issues: Imported vehicles must meet Australian Design Rules (ADRs). The Cybertruck, in its current form, does not comply with these standards, making it ineligible for road registration.
- Left-Hand Drive Restrictions: Australia generally prohibits the registration of new LHD vehicles for regular road use.
- Limited Use Cases: Some individuals have imported the Cybertruck for exhibitions or promotional events, but these vehicles are not permitted for standard road use.
What would it cost to buy a cyber truck in Australia?
It’s not currently available to purchase a Cybertruck in Australia. However, Tesla has already conducted a series of showcase events in Australia and New Zealand to gauge market interest. So it’s important to understand the potential costs involved.
Estimating prices: Tesla’s official website claims that the price range for its models, from the basic single-motor RWD to the high-end tri-model Cybertruck, is $60,990-$99,990 USD. Considering the currency conversion, the average annual exchange rate of 1 AUD=0.75 USD, which translates to around $81,320- $133,320 AUD.
Additional importing cost
Right-hand drive conversion: Since the Cybertruck now is only available in the left-hand drive, so it’s necessary to cost a conversion to comply with the Australian road regulations. This may cost $20,000-$30,000 AUD.
Shipping cost: Given the shipping method and insurance, the cost is different, approximately $10,000-$15,000 AUD
Registration and compliance: The design of Cybertruck, including its sharp edges and angular, may leverage the additional cost of $5,000-$10,000 AUD.
So, we take all the additional costs into consideration, the cost to purchase a Telsa Cybertruck in Australia is estimated to be 100,000$- 200,000$ AUD.
Is Cybertruck come to Australia
Currently, It’s not available to purchase Cybertruck on Telsa’s official website in Australia. However, the company has conducted several tours in New Zealand and Australia to assess the market demand for Cybertruck. Some limitations should be considered in Australia, like the shipping cost, registration restrictions, and right-hand driver conversion cost. Despite these challenges, any potential release would likely be several years away with the continuous overcoming of the hurdles.
Tesla’s Position on the Australian Market
Tesla has expressed interest in bringing the Cybertruck to Australia in the future. However, significant modifications would be required to meet local regulations, and there is no confirmed timeline for such developments.
Conclusion
For now, Australian enthusiasts will have to wait for Tesla to address the regulatory and design challenges associated with bringing the Cybertruck to the local market. Until then, the vehicle remains a North American exclusive, with limited opportunities for Australians to experience it firsthand. In the meantime, you will have to make do with the Hot Wheels or MEGA toy versions.
