We are getting into the nitty-gritty of the Cybertruck numbers. Taking delivery on New Year’s Eve wasn’t just about the fireworks; it was a calculated move based on some insane end-of-year deals.
I’ve had a lot of questions about whether buying a demo vehicle was worth it and how the final price compares to other cars in my fleet. Spoiler alert: the Cybertruck actually ended up being cheaper than the Model Y Performance I bought back in 2022. Let’s break down the math.
The Cybertruck Build & Discounts
We went with a Non-Foundation Series All-Wheel Drive. Here is how the subtotal looked before any of the “magic” happened:
- Base Price: $79,990
- Cyber Wheels Upgrade: $3,500
- Delivery & Order Fees: $2,245
- Total MSRP: $85,735
Because this was a demo vehicle with about 2,000 miles on it, and because we hit the timing perfectly on December 31st, the discounts started stacking up:
- Loyalty Credit: $5,500 (This covered the Cyber Wheels plus an extra $2k loyalty discount).
- Demo Price Adjustment: $3,210 (The discount for those 2,000 miles).
- Tesla Credit: $4,500 (Applied after taxes).
- Federal Tax Credit: $7,500 (Filed for the 2024 tax year).
The Final Net Cost: ~$71,944.
Compare that to my 2022 Model Y Performance, which I bought during the peak of the price hikes for roughly $73,440 (before taxes). It is wild to think that in 2025, you can get a Cybertruck for less than what a Model Y cost just two years ago.
The “Almost Didn’t Happen” Drama
The buying experience at Tesla is usually smooth, but we hit a major snag with the payment. Tesla doesn’t use the Plaid app for payments over $50,000—they require a wire transfer.
On New Year’s Eve, my bank blocked the $50k+ wire transfer online. With the banks closing early at 3:00 PM, we were racing against the clock. We made it to the bank at 2:30 PM, got the override, and sent the confirmation to the West Covina team just in time. If you’re buying a Cybertruck, check your bank’s wire limits ahead of time!
Insurance & Fleet Strategy
I did a preliminary check on insurance. Adding the Cybertruck while still holding the Model X would have jumped our monthly premium to around $900 for four vehicles.
- Once we officially surrender the Model X (due to the buyback), the Cybertruck’s insurance cost should sit right around where the Model X was—roughly $250-$300/month depending on the provider.
- We’re keeping the Model Y for now but might increase the deductible to lower the premium since it will be driven less.
Cybertruck vs. Rivian R1T: Initial Daily Driver Impressions
I know what you’re thinking: “Sherwin, two trucks? That’s crazy.” But here is my honest take after a few days with both:
- Daily Driving: The Cybertruck wins. The steer-by-wire system, the software integration, and the lighter accelerator pedal make it much more comfortable for stop-and-go traffic. My Rivian’s pedal feels heavy and tiring by comparison during a long commute.
- Adventures & Looks: The Rivian still wins my heart. I prefer the classic look of the R1T, and for serious off-roading, the Rivian ecosystem feels more “adventure-ready” right now.
- Supercharging: The Cybertruck’s native NACS port is just more convenient. Even though I can use Superchargers with the Rivian, the cable reach and the $12.99 monthly subscription for member rates are annoying.
The Final Tally: Cybertruck Deal Specs
| Item | Cost / Credit |
| MSRP (with Wheels) | $83,490 |
| Demo Discount | -$3,210 |
| Referral/Loyalty | -$5,500 |
| Federal Tax Credit | -$7,500 |
| Tesla Credit (Post-Tax) | -$4,500 |
| Net Cost (Est.) | $71,944 |
What’s Next?
Abby is already looking into wraps—or more likely, a color PPF. She’s had every Tesla wrapped, and the Cybertruck is the ultimate canvas. We’re also heading to the service center to see if the scratches on this demo vehicle will be covered under warranty (I’ll keep you posted on that!).
