Tesla revolutionizes Armored Transport with Bulletproof Cybertruck 4X4 APC.

Since its announcement, the Tesla Cybertruck, with its "bulletproof" windows and stainless steel body, has been a topic of much discussion and speculation. Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, has described the electric pickup as an "armored personnel carrier of the future." However, recent evaluations and tests have raised questions about the truthfulness of these claims, particularly regarding the vehicle's bullet resistance.
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Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, has described the electric pickup as an "armored personnel carrier of the future". (Picture source: Wikimedia and Tesla)

During the Cybertruck's 2019 reveal, Musk stated that the vehicle would be "literally bulletproof to a nine-millimeter handgun," likely referring to the 9x19mm Parabellum round. This claim was visually supported by a backdrop showing a slow-motion video of a bullet disintegrating upon impact with a metal surface. However, this demonstration has been criticized as more of a theatrical display than a factual representation.

A more recent test conducted by Tesla involved firing a Tommy gun (Thompson submachine gun) at a pre-production Cybertruck. While the Thompson is chambered in .45 ACP, a larger caliber bullet with different performance characteristics than the 9mm Parabellum, it's important to note that the .45 ACP has less penetration capability compared to the faster, narrower 9mm Parabellum. This discrepancy has led to skepticism about the actual level of protection offered by the Cybertruck.

Furthermore, the marketed bulletproofing of Tesla's Cybertruck might pose additional risks. When a bullet penetrates metal, it can carry metal fragments with it, potentially increasing the severity of wounds, as shown in a 2003 study. This raises concerns about the safety implications of the vehicle's claimed bullet resistance.

The evaluation of the Cybertruck's bulletproof capabilities also needs to be contextualized within the broader landscape of vehicle armoring standards. European VPAM standards suggest that the lightest grades of protection can resist 9mm Parabellum rounds, typically not used in securing a high-security vehicle. For comparison, armored limousines for VIPs and vehicles like the U.S. Presidential limo "The Beast" have much higher protection levels, capable of withstanding high-velocity rifle rounds.

Tesla's history of overpromising and underdelivering adds another layer of doubt. The company has faced scrutiny for making ambitious claims about its products, from self-driving capabilities to exaggerated car ranges, leading to fines and public skepticism.

In summary, while the Cybertruck may offer some level of protection against specific firearm calibers, it falls short of the high-security standards set by professional armored vehicles. Potential buyers looking for genuine bulletproof protection might consider investing in a professionally armored vehicle instead. The Cybertruck, while boasting innovative design and features, may not fully deliver on its promise of being a bulletproof, apocalypse-ready survival vehicle.