Tesla: Cybertruck would not get approval in Europe

In the US, the Tesla Cybertruck was pre-ordered a hundred thousand times. When the electric SUV comes on the market in this country is still unclear. A TÜV expert explains now that a license in Germany would not be possible at present.

Before "strong modifications in the basic structure" would be necessary, says Stefan Teller, expert SGS-TÜV Saar GmbH of the "Automobilwoche". "The basic concept of Tesla contradicts the common European security philosophy". In terms of cyber pressure, the expert sees major flaws: "The inmates feel safe, but they are not," says Teller. Because between the US and Europe, there is a big difference in the type approval of vehicles.

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In the US, automakers have the opportunity to self-certify the roadworthiness of their vehicles, the so-called Self Certification. In Germany, on the other hand, a type-approval procedure is in force, involving both manufacturers and authorities, as well as independent technical services such as TÜV. "Vehicles must comply with 50 to 60 regulations," says Teller.

In addition, cyber pressure in the US is one of the so-called light duty trucks. Vehicles of this class are exempt from many passive occupant safety regulations. In Europe, on the other hand, passive safety and pedestrian protection are very important. "The front of the car should not be stiff at all," says Teller. "The bumper and bonnet must be able to absorb energy to protect the passers-by." This means that the bodywork is designed to specifically deform in an accident and lose energy of the impact to minimize the injuries.

"There are enormous forces acting on the occupants"

This targeted deformation is not possible with Tesla, however, because in cybertruck so-called high-stiff sheets would be installed. "In a crash, nothing is deformed anymore, instead enormous forces act on the occupants, so airbags will not help anymore," says Teller. If the Tesla Cybertruck is to get an approval in Europe, it still has to be heavily modified.

Just as the Tesla Cybertruck is currently designed, the expert does not give the e-pickup any chance. In its current design, "this will not be sold in Germany on the basis of a type approval as a mass-produced vehicle," says Teller. "That's a big job for Mr. Musk."