- James May checks out the Tesla Cybertruck in California and the resulting video is mostly a critique of its design.
- Even though he wouldn’t own one, James says there is a lot to like about the Cybertruck and he appreciates its unusual design.
There doesn’t seem to be a big difference between James May, the gin-promoting YouTuber, and his old Top Gear persona. He recently uploaded a video on his James May’s Planet Gin YouTube channel in which he checks out the Tesla Cybertruck, and at one point he pulls out a steel ruler to measure just how flat its cold-pressed, unpainted stainless steel body panels are—that’s such a Captain Slow thing to do.
James May Cybertruck Ruler
He actually proves a very good point by doing this: trying to get the panels perfectly flat will result in them looking distorted. That’s why there is a slight curve to some Cybertruck panels, which actually helps them appear flat even though they aren’t. Interestingly, when he takes the ruler to measure the passenger side doors, the front door is slightly convex while the rear door is almost perfectly flat.
Some panels are completely flat, especially around the rear quarter panel area, but most aren’t. James clarifies this is not the result of shoddily pressed panels that are warped. It is intentional and a way to highlight the sharpness of the design. He then takes a timelapse walk around the vehicle to decide whether he likes the design, and at the end, he declares that he does.
“The Cybertruck is actually very ballsy and quite humorous,” he says, “but I am quite glad it exists.”
While driving the Cybertruck, James argues that the steer-by-wire system, which doesn’t have a physical connection between the helm and the wheels, is “alarming.” He admits that by having such a system, the vehicle can do things that wouldn’t be possible if it had a conventional steering rack, and he concludes that it’s a positive trait of the Cybertruck.
Some of the negatives he points out in the review include the blind spot created by the thick and awkwardly positioned A-pillars or the blinding glare that its body panels often create. He says that even though there’s plenty to like about the truck (he’s also a known EV advocate who has owned several Teslas over the years), he wouldn’t like to own a Cybertruck because it’s too big and it’s a pickup truck, a body style that carries very different connotations in any other part of the world outside the United States, where it’s exceedingly popular.
Tesla’s recently released Cybertruck has been making waves in the automotive world with its futuristic design and innovative features. Among those who have taken notice is former Top Gear host James May, known for his meticulous attention to detail and love of all things automotive.
In a recent video review posted on his YouTube channel, May took a closer look at the Cybertruck, putting it to the test in terms of design, functionality, and overall performance. One thing that stood out immediately to May was the truck’s unconventional appearance, which he described as “like something out of Blade Runner.”
May wasted no time in putting the Cybertruck through its paces, taking measurements with a ruler to assess its dimensions and comparing it to other trucks on the market. Despite its seemingly massive size, May was surprised to find that the Cybertruck is actually smaller than he expected, making it more maneuverable and easier to park than traditional pickup trucks.
In terms of performance, May praised the Cybertruck’s acceleration and handling, noting its impressive speed and agility on the road. He also appreciated the truck’s electric motor, which offers quiet and smooth acceleration without the noise and vibrations associated with traditional gas-powered engines.
One feature that May found particularly interesting was the truck’s ultra-durable exoskeleton, which is made from cold-rolled stainless steel that can withstand dents and scratches better than traditional truck bodies. May even took a sledgehammer to the Cybertruck, demonstrating its resilience and durability in the face of abuse.
Overall, May was impressed with what Tesla has created with the Cybertruck, commending the company for pushing the boundaries of automotive design and engineering. While the truck may not be for everyone, May believes that it is a bold and innovative step forward in the world of electric vehicles.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve and embrace new technologies, the Tesla Cybertruck is poised to set a new standard for electric trucks and challenge traditional notions of what a pickup should be. With reviews like James May’s highlighting its strengths and unique features, the Cybertruck is sure to attract more attention and interest from consumers looking for a cutting-edge and environmentally friendly vehicle option.