Tesla to return some Cybertruck deposits, as enthusiasts swoop in ahead of halt

Amid a rush of new reservations for the Cybertruck, following news that production of the unconventional vehicle will end soon, Tesla's (NASDAQ:TSLA) announced it will return some deposits.

CEO Elon Musk announced Monday on X that the company has more Cybertruck orders than it can fulfill before shutting down the vehicle's production line in approximately eight months.

"The Cybertruck order rate far exceeds our production rate," Musk wrote. He added that Tesla would try to manufacture as many trucks as possible before closing the line but would have to return deposits to many customers.

The announcement follows Tesla's decision last week to wind down Cybertruck production at its Texas factory. Rather than continuing to devote manufacturing capacity to the distinctive electric pickup, Tesla plans to redirect those resources toward increasing production of its Cybercab autonomous robotaxi.

It's Not About Profitability, Musk Insists

Musk was quick to push back against reports suggesting the Cybertruck is being discontinued because it is unprofitable.

According to the Tesla chief, the decision comes down to opportunity cost. He argues that the complexity involved in manufacturing the Cybertruck makes it more valuable for the company to use that factory capacity to produce additional Cybercabs.

The explanation comes against the backdrop of disappointing sales. Tesla delivered the first Cybertrucks in late 2023, but U.S. sales fell 48% in 2025 to 20,237 vehicles, according to Kelley Blue Book.

Could the Final Cybertrucks Become Collector's Items?

The planned production shutdown could create an interesting twist in the Cybertruck's story. While some reservation holders may be disappointed to learn they won't receive their trucks, collectors and Tesla enthusiasts may see an opportunity to own a piece of the company's automotive history.

With production potentially ending within months, the remaining Cybertrucks could represent the final examples of one of the most unconventional vehicles ever brought to market. The distinctive stainless-steel design, polarizing styling and ambitious promises surrounding the truck could give surviving examples a place in automotive collections.

Whether that translates into long-term collector value remains to be seen. Production numbers, future demand and the condition of individual vehicles will all matter. Still, the prospect of a relatively short production run may encourage some buyers to secure a Cybertruck while they still can.

Musk himself expressed admiration for the unconventional pickup, declaring: "There will never be another vehicle like it."

For Tesla, however, the priority is shifting. The company has roughly eight months to build as many Cybertrucks as possible before turning its attention toward the Cybercab. For customers and collectors alike, the countdown may already be underway.