In an unexpected twist, SpaceX has emerged as the largest purchaser of Tesla’s Cybertruck, acquiring nearly 20% of the electric vehicles sold in the US during the last quarter of 2025. As Tesla grapples with a worrying downturn in sales, the space exploration company founded by Elon Musk has reportedly shelled out over $100 million (£74 million) on these futuristic trucks, according to recent registration data.
SpaceX’s Cybertruck Acquisition
The latest figures from S&P Global Mobility, shared initially by Bloomberg News, reveal that SpaceX’s significant investment in Cybertrucks has played a crucial role in propping up Tesla’s dwindling sales. Without SpaceX’s robust purchases, registrations for the Cybertruck would have plummeted by a staggering 51% in the final quarter of 2025. This reliance on a single client raises questions about Tesla’s broader market appeal, especially as it faces multiple challenges.
Tesla’s Sales Slump
Tesla’s difficulties are further compounded by a loss of its title as the world’s foremost electric vehicle manufacturer, a position now claimed by the Chinese company BYD. After a decade of uninterrupted growth, Tesla’s sales have suffered two consecutive years of decline. The company’s struggle to keep pace with technological advancements has become apparent, with BYD recently unveiling a remarkable battery that can charge as quickly as filling a petrol tank—a feat seen as the “holy grail” of electric vehicles.
Sales have also been impacted by backlash against Musk’s vocal support of controversial political figures, including US President Donald Trump. These sentiments have led to notable boycotts of Tesla products. In a recent Axios Harris survey ranking America’s 100 most visible companies, Tesla received low scores for character, ethics, and citizenship, showing the brand’s tarnished image among consumers.
The Polarising Cybertruck
The Cybertruck itself has been a source of contention. Often referred to as the ‘MAGAmobile’ and ‘Deplorean’ by critics, its unconventional design and Musk’s political affiliations have made it a polarising subject. Despite the hype surrounding its launch in 2023, Musk had initially predicted annual sales of 250,000 Cybertrucks by 2025. The reality has been starkly different, with sales plummeting to just over 20,000 units last year, a significant drop from 38,965 in 2024.
Looking Ahead
The current trajectory for both Tesla and the Cybertruck raises critical questions about the future of electric vehicles in the US market. With SpaceX stepping in as a major client, Tesla has found a temporary lifeline, but the company must soon find a way to rekindle consumer interest and confidence.
Why it Matters
The situation underscores a vital crossroads for Tesla and the electric vehicle industry at large. As consumer preferences shift and competition intensifies, companies must adapt to survive. The dynamics between Musk’s ventures and their impact on each other highlight the intricate relationship between innovation, market perception, and consumer trust. If Tesla can’t reclaim its leadership position and shake off its negative image, the consequences could reverberate throughout the entire electric vehicle sector, affecting not just Tesla, but the industry as a whole.
