Cybertruck Craze Continues: Why a Used Cybertruck Just Sold for More Than a New One
It’s no secret that Tesla’s once futuristic glow has started to fade. With growing competition and years of hype finally meeting reality, owning a Tesla might not carry the same jaw-dropping wow factor it once did. But don’t tell that to the fans of the Tesla Cybertruck—because for many, the dream of parking this wild-looking electric pickup in their driveway is still very much alive.
And despite a slower-than-expected rollout and lukewarm early sales, one recent sale on the used market proves there’s still plenty of enthusiasm—especially when the truck in question comes with a bit of flair.
Just last week, a used Cybertruck Dual-Motor AWD sold on the auction site Cars & Bids for $78,000—more than what it would cost to buy a brand-new Cybertruck directly from Tesla once you factor in the $7,500 federal EV tax credit.
For reference, a new Dual-Motor Cybertruck starts around $79,990, but eligible buyers can drive one home for roughly $72,000 after tax incentives. So what made this used model command a higher price? The answer lies in custom upgrades—lots of them.
Why This Cybertruck Was Worth More (to One Buyer, Anyway)
Let’s be clear: In the world of used cars, modifications rarely increase a vehicle’s resale value. In fact, most customizations only appeal to a narrow audience and can even hurt resale if done poorly. But every now and then, the right upgrades hit the right buyer—and that’s what happened here.
This Cybertruck came equipped with a list of tasteful, expensive modifications that transformed its appearance and boosted its appeal. The most striking change? The truck’s iconic bare stainless steel exterior was wrapped in a satin black paint protection film (PPF). That single upgrade likely cost between $3,000 and $5,000, but it gave the truck a sleek, stealthy look that’s a far cry from its factory finish.
Other upgrades included:
- A roof-mounted LED light bar
- Aftermarket running boards
- Official Tesla roof bars and mud flaps
- Unique cladding on the tailgate
- And the optional Tesla CyberTent—a $2,975 camping accessory for outdoor adventurers
Altogether, these enhancements may have added nearly $10,000 in aftermarket value, turning a standard Cybertruck into a more personalized and capable machine.
The modifications didn’t stop at the exterior. The interior also received a few notable tweaks that made it stand out:
- The central touchscreen was placed on a swivel mount, allowing the driver to angle the display—a feature Tesla doesn’t yet offer by default.
- LED lighting was added beneath the glass roof, giving the cabin a cool, futuristic glow.
- Tinted windows added privacy and style, likely at a cost of several hundred dollars.
Each of these changes helped this Cybertruck feel just a little more special—and for one buyer, they were worth the extra cost.
That’s the million-dollar (or in this case, $78,000) question.
From a financial perspective, paying more for a used car than a new one is almost always a red flag—unless the used version offers immediate availability, special features, or valuable upgrades. In this case, the buyer may have seen value in the fact that they wouldn’t need to wait in line for delivery or spend extra time and money customizing the vehicle after purchase.
But let’s be honest—this was probably not a bargain. While the modifications were clearly well done and expensive to install, it’s still unusual to see a modified used vehicle outperform the value of a brand-new one.
More than anything, this sale shows that demand for the Cybertruck is still alive, especially among fans looking for something unique and ready to drive off the lot—or in this case, out of the auction.
This quirky Cybertruck sale shines a light on a larger trend: the used EV market is evolving fast. With new models coming out and prices stabilizing, used electric vehicles—especially Teslas—are becoming more accessible. But occasionally, a one-of-a-kind model pops up and bucks the trend.
It also suggests that despite Tesla’s ups and downs, the Cybertruck still commands curiosity. Whether it’s the sharp angles, the bold styling, or the sheer novelty, some buyers are still willing to pay a premium—especially if they can avoid the wait and stand out from the crowd.
This sale might not reflect the Cybertruck’s broader market value, but it does tell us something important: EV buyers are still passionate, especially when the vehicle offers something they can’t get from the factory. Customization, personality, and availability all played a role in pushing this used Cybertruck above its new-car price.
Whether or not this buyer made a smart investment is up for debate. But one thing’s for sure—they now own one of the most distinctive trucks on the road.
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