Tesla Cybertruck Drivers Could Get Sued For Selling Their Vehicles Too Soon

Illustration 248053143 © Mariusz Burcz | Dreamstime.com

Tesla Cybertruck owners intending to turn a quick buck from their securing of the much-anticipated pickup might encounter a little bump on the way—drivers aren’t allowed to resell the vehicle within its first year on the road.

The electric automaker has included a notable caveat in the Cybertruck’s purchase agreement that prohibits owners from selling the vehicle within 12 months of taking delivery. Should they be found breaching this stipulation, Tesla warns that it reserves the right to either block the transfer of the truck’s title or demand a hefty sum of US$50,000—or the total sale amount, if higher—as liquidated damages.

“Tesla may seek injunctive relief to prevent the transfer of title of the Vehicle or demand liquidated damages from you in the amount of $50,000 or the value received as consideration for the sale or transfer, whichever is greater,” Elon Musk’s company notes.

Some exceptions may be made under certain unforeseen circumstances, though. Owners who believe they have a valid reason to sell the Cybertruck within the restricted period must first present their case in writing and provide Tesla with a reasonable opportunity to repurchase the vehicle at a reduced price, the carmaker explains.

The company then has the option to take over the vehicle at a price that considers mileage (less US$0.25 per mile driven), wear and tear, and repair costs to bring the truck up to Tesla’s standards.

If Tesla passes on this buy-back offer, the owner may then proceed to sell it to a third party but only after obtaining written consent from Tesla.

Additionally, Insider points out that Tesla’s subscription-based features, such as the Full Self-Driving mode, do not carry over to new owners, potentially complicating second-hand sales across all its offerings.

Wilful drivers must know that they could be banned from buying vehicles from Tesla in the future if they do not adhere to the agreement. As the company cautions: “Tesla may also refuse to sell you any future vehicles.”

Accordingly, the clause aims to deter potential flipping during the Cybertruck’s initial rollout, where opportunistic resellers could potentially capitalize on the vehicle’s anticipated scarcity to inflate prices. 

[via Insider, PCMag, Engadget, cover illustration 248053143 © Mariusz Burcz | Dreamstime.com]