Key Takeaways:
- Tesla is storing dozens of Cybertrucks in a shopping center parking lot in Farmington Hills, Michigan.
- Residents are upset, claiming the trucks are causing issues in their community.
- Tesla says the trucks are sold and being temporarily stored before being shipped to owners.
- City officials say Tesla didn’t get permission to use the lot and violated local policies.
- The Cybertruck has struggled with poor sales and negative reviews since its 2023 launch.
Tesla’s Cybertruck Controversy in Michigan
Residents in Farmington Hills, Michigan, are frustrated after spotting dozens of Tesla Cybertrucks parked in a shopping center lot. The trucks, some of which have reportedly been there for weeks, were initially thought to be unsold inventory from a nearby dealership. But Tesla employees revealed that the vehicles are actually sold and being stored temporarily until they’re shipped to their owners.
The shopping center was chosen because its owner also runs a nearby Tesla service center. However, city officials say Tesla didn’t get their approval to use the lot. Charmaine Kettler-Schmult, the city’s planning director, explained that storing vehicles on the property isn’t allowed under local rules. The city has now instructed the shopping center to remove the trucks.
Why Are Residents So Upset?
The sudden appearance of so many Cybertrucks has caused concern among residents. Some estimate that up to 100 trucks are parked in the lot, taking up valuable space and becoming an eyesore. Community members are also worried that the large number of trucks could make the area look like a storage yard rather than a thriving shopping center.
This isn’t the first time the Cybertruck has made headlines. Since its launch in 2023, the vehicle has faced numerous challenges. Its angular design has been criticized, and owners have reported issues like faulty software, random braking by the autopilot system, and problems with the stainless steel body.
Cybertruck’s Slow Sales
The Cybertruck, a pet project of Elon Musk, was expected to sell 250,000 units a year. But since its release, only 40,000 have been sold. The truck’s struggles have been compounded by negative reviews and a recent mass recall due to defective accelerator pedals.
Musk, who has been advising President Donald Trump through the Department of Government Efficiency task force, is known for his ambitious goals. While he stepped down from his formal role last month, many believe he’ll continue to influence the White House.
What’s Next?
The standoff in Farmington Hills highlights a bigger issue for Tesla: finding solutions for storing and delivering its vehicles. As the company works to address production and delivery delays, the Cybertruck’s future remains uncertain. Will Tesla overcome its challenges and turn the Cybertruck into a success? Only time will tell.
For now, the people of Farmington Hills just want their shopping center returned to normal—and the Cybertrucks gone.