The Tesla Cybertruck has unexpectedly gained immense popularity in China, a country traditionally not inclined towards pickup trucks. In 2023, with a record-breaking 30.09 million units sold in the Chinese auto market, only approximately 512,000 were pickup trucks, constituting merely 1.7% of total sales.

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This limited interest in pickup trucks in China can be attributed to various factors. Pickup trucks are categorized as light trucks, subjecting them to restrictions such as mandatory use of the rightmost "slow" lane on highways, a speed limit of 100 kph (62 mph), and a mandatory scrapping policy after 15 years. Additionally, certain Chinese cities impose restrictions on pickups entering urban areas.

Given this context, the introduction of the Tesla Cybertruck in China, where it is not currently available for purchase, might seem counterintuitive. However, videos from the Cybertruck's multi-city tour in China tell a different story. Social media posts depict large crowds gathering around the Cybertruck, particularly in Shanghai and Nanjing Xinjiekou Deji Plaza. In Shanghai, people formed long lines to catch a glimpse of the all-electric pickup truck. Despite pickup trucks not being popular in China, the Cybertruck has become an instant celebrity during its tour. Did you think the cybertruck was going to be this popular in China? Let me know in the comments below!

The overwhelming response to the Cybertruck in China could be attributed to several factors. Tesla enthusiasts, like Wall Street veteran and The Future Fund Managing Partner Gary Black, have suggested the existence of a "halo effect" surrounding the Cybertruck. The current reception in China, where the vehicle is not yet available for purchase, supports the notion that this halo effect is indeed in play.

Whether the Cybertruck will be a success remains to be seen, as it continues to evoke both admiration and criticism, especially in its anticipated primary market, the United States. Nevertheless, the strong public reaction and evident support for the vehicle in China underscore the impact of its unconventional design, suggesting that the Cybertruck's appeal extends beyond traditional electric or conventional pickup trucks.

Upgraded Tesla Model 3 Performance poised for Q2 launch - An upgraded version of the Tesla Model 3 Performance is set to launch in the second quarter of 2024, according to a recent report from China. Production is expected to take place at both the Fremont Factory in California and Gigafactory Shanghai in China. The enhanced Tesla Model 3 was first unveiled in China in late August of last year and was subsequently launched in North America earlier this month. However, during these launches, only two variants were introduced: the base Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) version and the mid-tier Long Range Dual Motor All Wheel Drive (AWD) variant. The Model 3 Performance was notably absent from both events.