A Tesla Cybertruck Foundation Series has been spotted at a BYD facility in China, sparking speculation about potential reverse engineering.
The Cybertruck program still raises questions about its long-term success. Some Tesla fans tout its status as the best-selling electric pickup in the U.S., but this achievement largely stems from a backlog of over 1 million reservations.
As Tesla works through these orders—estimated to be 40,000 to 50,000 trucks by year’s end—next year will be a true test of sustained demand. Early signs of potential challenges include Tesla offering discounts through its referral program and lowering lease rates.
While the program’s overall success remains unclear, the Cybertruck boasts innovative technology that may attract interest from competitors seeking to understand its unique features. Could BYD be taking notes? Only time will tell.
That’s why it’s interesting to see a Tesla Cybertruck spotted at a BYD facility in China (via X):
Also in the short video, we all can see a bunch of men intently looking into the vehicle before entering what is reportedly a BYD facility.
BYD serves as both a competitor and supplier to Tesla. As the world’s leading seller of electric vehicles (including BEVs and PHEVs), BYD is narrowing the gap with Tesla in BEV sales while holding the position of the second-largest battery cell producer globally, just behind CATL. Notably, it supplies battery cells to Tesla, highlighting its multifaceted role in the EV market.
In the automotive industry, it’s common practice for manufacturers to acquire vehicles from competitors for benchmarking or reverse engineering. Since the Cybertruck is not currently available for sale in China, BYD had to purchase one in the U.S. and import it.
Speculation is growing about Tesla potentially launching the Cybertruck in China, the world’s largest auto market. Could this move signal strategic preparation for competitive analysis, or is it a step toward understanding its potential rival? Time will reveal Tesla’s next move.
