Tesla is tightening its grip on the resale market, unveiling a bold Cybertruck Only clause that prohibits buyers from reselling their newly purchased vehicle within the inaugural year without explicit approval. This exclusive clause, strategically introduced ahead of the eagerly anticipated Nov. 30 Cybertruck deliveries, underscores Tesla’s determination to preserve the uniqueness and scarcity of its cutting-edge vehicles.
The newly implemented policy empowers Tesla to pursue legal action against buyers attempting to sidestep the resale restriction. The company reserves the right to seek an injunction, hindering ownership transfer, and imposes a formidable penalty of either $50,000 or the entire resale value, whichever is greater, as per Engadget reports. Furthermore, daring resellers could face future consequences, including being blacklisted from direct car purchases from Tesla.
While Tesla adopts a stern stance, there is a glimmer of flexibility. The company hints at potential exceptions, allowing some buyers to sell their Cybertrucks within the first year, but only with written consent. In such cases, Tesla offers two alternatives: a buyback option at a reduced price, factoring in mileage at $0.25 per mile, coupled with depreciation and repair costs, or permission to resell to a third-party buyer.
This stringent approach aligns with Tesla’s mission to safeguard the exclusivity of the Cybertruck. Initially slated for delivery to a select few, with mass production not slated until 2024, Tesla aims to caution potential opportunistic resellers seeking to capitalize on the rarity of this innovative vehicle. As Tesla pioneers a new chapter in automobile sales, this bold move is sure to reshape industry dynamics and challenge traditional norms of car ownership.