What it’s like to own a Cybertruck from 7 owners' perspective

[That Beast Mode]

Try this link instead: https://www.wired.com/story/owning-...7rBUKCBdCXEtC7YveK_aem_qpkovue1-baiB-8tmDMmSA

Says it wants me to start a trial and still won't let me read it. Thanks though.

Sponsored

 

[That Beast Mode]

That Wired article is behind a paywall. Fortunately Grok has summarized it:

Summary of WIRED's October 16, 2025, Article: "Spit On, Sworn At, and Undeterred: What It’s Like to Own a Cybertruck"In this feature story, WIRED reporter Alana Semuels interviews seven Tesla Cybertruck owners at a sweltering meetup in Palm Springs, California, organized by the 53,000-member Facebook group Cybertruck Owners Only. The piece delves into the owners' real-world experiences with the polarizing electric pickup—celebrated for its futuristic design and performance but often vilified as a symbol of Elon Musk's controversies and political extremism (likened to a "MAGA hat" in the Trump era). Despite facing harassment, profiling, and social fallout, the owners express unwavering pride, emphasizing the truck's innovation, community bonds, and joy it brings (especially to kids). The tone is resilient and humanizing, portraying owners as diverse, everyday enthusiasts who view the Cybertruck as apolitical and transformative, even if it invites "hate" from strangers.Key Themes

• Positive Experiences: Owners rave about the truck's standout aesthetics ("totally unique," "outside of the box"), blistering acceleration ("instant power and torque"), off-road prowess, spacious interior (ideal for pets via "dog mode"), and steer-by-wire handling (initially jarring but exhilarating). The community is described as inclusive and welcoming, with owners eagerly showing off their vehicles. Childlike wonder dominates public reactions—kids flock to it like a "celebrity," prompting owners to stock toys in the frunk.
• Negative Experiences: Backlash is raw and frequent, including being flipped off, sworn at, spat on, or left nasty notes (e.g., "This is an extension of your small dick" and "Nazi"). Political assumptions lead to profiling, affecting families and businesses—some owners avoid using it for work to dodge client discomfort. Practical gripes include poor front visibility and the emotional toll of "becoming the targets" amid Musk's scandals.
• Overall Sentiment: Harassment hasn't deterred them; many laugh it off or turn confrontations into teachable moments. The truck fosters personal growth, family bonding, and even spiritual epiphanies, outweighing the "storm" of negativity.

Profiles of the Seven Owners and Their StoriesThe interviews reveal a cross-section of America—entrepreneurs, traders, retirees, and families—united by their passion:

• Michael Goldman (37, Palm Springs, CA; construction entrepreneur; truck: "Beastie"): His wife initially mocked it ("looks like a brick"), but came around after off-roading and towing. Craziest incident: A woman at Whole Foods left a vulgar, anti-Nazi note; confrontation revealed his Jewish heritage, leading to her tearful apology. Quote: "Do you realize that you just profiled me based off of the vehicle that I drive... as being a Nazi?"
• Russ Taylor (44, Ladera Ranch, CA; off-road rally organizer): Preordered on day one for its cyberpunk vibe. Sees irony in its politicization: "It's just a vehicle." Endures occasional middle fingers but no major drama. (Note: He's a pardoned January 6 participant, adding unspoken political layers.)
• Frank and Diane Brabec (58/63, Indio, CA; healthcare consultant and ex-zookeeper; truck: "Computruck"): Love the "sports car" squat in sport mode and dog-friendly cabin for their sheepdogs. Reactions are 95% cheers from kids (Frank hands out toys); they've been flipped off only 3-4 times. Quote (Diane): "We've only been flipped off like three times. Maybe four."
• Jose Reynoso (55, Palm Springs, CA; small business owner): Bought for marketing (wrapped in his logo) but regrets the Musk-fueled "hate storm" scaring his family. No longer a daily driver for renos due to client bias. Quote: "We didn't know what was coming... So it was sad to see that... wives and kids being harassed."
• Andrew Castillo (40, Los Angeles; stock trader): Canceled then reordered after warming to its bold lines ("it stands out"). Hates the "long" windshield visibility but adores kid mobs at campsites. Heartwarming tale: In bear country, an autistic boy tailed him obsessively; they spent two hours letting the child explore. Quote: "There's 50 kids that come out: ‘Cybertruck, Cybertruck!’"
• Landon Castillo (8, Los Angeles; Andrew's son): Mini Cybertruck driver and Musk fan. Simple joy: "It's made by Tesla... Yeah [Elon is cool]."
• Roger Davis (San Diego; entrepreneur): Drawn to its "polarizing" innovation; blames it for his divorce ("Women don't like the vehicle"). Uses Grok AI ("Aura") for therapy drives. Epic story: Modified his truck ($50K) to conquer the Rubicon Trail as the first EV there; midway, a divine "flush of light" and God's presence "reset my life." Quote: "I just felt the presence of God and a deep peace and love. It really broke me down."

The article closes on a defiant note: These owners aren't backing down, turning heads (good and bad) into badges of honor. A sidebar nods to wrapper Alex Ferguson (32, Austin, TX), who's customized 400+ trucks with space themes, underscoring the vehicle's cult appeal.

Thank you for posting this, from the summary it didn't seem that bad. But I'm sure there more to it.

 

[sys700]

This should be viewable...

 

[CYBERTRUCKco]

The divorced guy who chats with Grok for therapy is probably not representative of typical Cybertruck owners, but he is getting a lot of attention online.

She is a good therapist, give it a shot!

Sponsored