Tesla has discontinued the $60,990 rear-wheel-drive (RWD) Cybertruck, previously the most affordable version of its distinctive electric truck. Concurrently, the price of the all-wheel-drive (AWD) Cybertruck has surged by $20,000, now starting at $99,990. This marks a significant $39,000 increase in the vehicle's base price.

The high-performance tri-motor variant, known as the Cyberbeast, has also seen a price hike. It now costs $119,990, up from $99,990 as of August 6th. These price adjustments are particularly stark given Tesla's initial 2019 promise that the Cybertruck would start at $39,990.

On a positive note, Tesla has improved delivery timelines. The company now estimates that AWD Cybertrucks will be delivered between August and September 2024, with the Cyberbeast expected between October and December 2024. Previously, deliveries were projected for 2025, as indicated by The Internet Archive earlier this month.

However, the Cybertruck has faced other challenges recently, including two recalls this year—one for defective accelerator pedals and another for faulty wiper blades. More broadly, Tesla is navigating a difficult period marked by declining profits, federal investigations, lawsuits, and additional recalls.