The Tesla Cybertruck has always been a love-it-or-hate-it phenomenon, and its exterior design is the main reason behind this polarizing response. Some critics argue that its controversial, unpainted, and shimmery structure resembles something designed by a four-year-old girl. On the other hand, there are those who consider it the most talked-about thing in the market, praising its futuristic appeal and visionary outlook.
However, amidst all the varied opinions, one of the world's most prolific and well-regarded automotive designers, Giorgetto Giugiaro, has come forward to praise Tesla's first prototype. With an impressive career spanning 85 years, the Italian design house is renowned for its iconic creations, including the original Volkswagen Golf, Lotus Esprit, Maserati Ghibli, BMW M1, and many more. It's safe to say that if the Cybertruck had been released in the 70s or 80s with its angular design, Giugiaro would have left his mark on it too. In fact, his expertise extends beyond automobiles, as he has also designed watches, cameras, and various other consumer goods.
Interestingly enough, Giugiaro played a significant role in defining the original DeLorean design, a vehicle that served as the inspiration for the Cybertruck and experienced its fair share of criticism when it debuted in the early 1980s. Just like the Cybertruck, the DeLorean boasted a square shape and unpainted stainless steel external body panels. However, the DeLorean's creator, John DeLorean, became embroiled in controversy, and the vehicle's reputation suffered due to its weak engine performance and questionable construction quality.
Undoubtedly, Elon Musk's controversial Cybertruck design reflects his unique vision, and Giugiaro has expressed his willingness to assist Tesla in finding the right audience for the pickup truck. In an email interview with NPR, he stated, "When you go outside the norm, it's almost always seen as a provocation. This occurs in all sectors, from mobile to gastronomy, among others. I am certain that Cybertruck will be a success because everyone wants to stand out; it's a market need. It will find its admirers, I am convinced of it," Giugiaro added.
Controversy has always been a selling point, and we have witnessed this phenomenon for years. However, it's essential to note that despite the original DeLorean's fame, particularly from its appearance in the hit car movie "Back to the Future," it only remained in production for one year and sold less than 10,000 units during its limited availability. The company faced financial challenges that hampered its long-term success and ultimately led to its rapid disappearance.
In conclusion, the Tesla Cybertruck's exterior design has sparked fervent debates, with critics and enthusiasts alike expressing contrasting views. Despite the initial skepticism, Giugiaro, a revered automotive designer, has praised the prototype and offered his support in finding the right audience for the Cybertruck. While controversy can generate sales, the fate of the Cybertruck remains uncertain, as demonstrated by the short-lived production and limited sales of the original DeLorean. Only time will tell if the Cybertruck can overcome its controversial design and carve a lasting legacy in the automotive industry.