Dubai-based entrepreneur Kirill Sosnovyi, founder of Connect Ai, has finally secured a Tesla Cybertruck and will begin renting out the high-demand electric off-roader next week, reported The National.
Known for its bulletproof exoskeleton and shatterproof windscreen, this dual-motor vehicle promises a robust and luxurious experience for its users.
The Tesla Cybertruck boasts impressive specs: a range of 400 kilometers on an eight-hour charge, acceleration from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in just 6.7 seconds, and a top speed of about 180 kilometers per hour. Rental rates are set at Dh700 ($190) per hour or Dh2,800 for a full day, making it accessible for those looking to experience cutting-edge electric vehicle technology.
Sosnovyi, a Russian entrepreneur, explained the challenges of acquiring the Cybertruck for the UAE market. “The main reason these cars are so hard to get into the UAE is because there is a big waiting list and the US market is overpriced,” said Sosnovyi. Despite the delays and paying $50,000 over the $81,000 list price, he believes the wait has been worthwhile.
The Cybertruck is displayed alongside a Tesla Roadster in Connect Ai’s showroom on Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. “Not many people know that it’s possible to buy from the secondary market in the US,” Sosnovyi noted, highlighting the complexity and expense of importing such a high-demand vehicle. Sea shipping alone can take at least three months.
Sosnovyi’s journey to secure the Cybertruck wasn’t without hurdles. He fell victim to a scammer in the US, who posed as a broker selling two vehicles. Additionally, Tesla’s attempts to restrict resale within the first year of ownership added to the difficulty, with some buyers blacklisted for attempting to resell their vehicles.
The Cybertruck’s arrival in Dubai was delayed by two months, but it has quickly become a sensation. Tesla recently recalled 3,878 Cybertrucks produced between November 2023 and April 2024 due to a potential issue with the accelerator pedal.
This recall provided a glimpse into the production numbers, with estimates suggesting Tesla could produce up to 48,500 Cybertrucks this year from its Gigafactory in Austin, Texas.
With the introduction of the Tesla Cybertruck to Dubai’s rental market, Sosnovyi is poised to meet the growing demand for unique and cutting-edge electric vehicles. His perseverance and innovative approach underscore the potential for luxury EV experiences in the UAE.
