Tesla Cybertrucks Stopped At Border On Suspicion Of Being Smuggled Into Russia: Report
Two Cybertrucks were recently blocked from entering Belarus on suspicion of being smuggled into Russia, according to reports. These high-demand vehicles are only available in the U.S., leading to a surge in interest from consumers around the world.
The Lithuanian customs office made the discovery at the Salčininku checkpoint, located on the border between Belarus and Lithuania. The Cybertrucks in question were manufactured in 2023 and are considered among the earliest production units of the Tesla vehicle.
Authorities suspect that the vehicles were intended to be transported and registered in Russia, a violation of the current European Union regulations prohibiting passenger vehicle exports to the country. As a result, a pre-trial investigation has been launched into smuggling and violation of international sanctions.
While the drivers of the vehicles were released following questioning, the incident raises questions about the demand for Tesla’s Cybertruck beyond its initial release in the U.S. A separate Cybertruck owner in Russia reportedly obtained the vehicle through Belarus, indicating a potential trend in acquiring the popular electric pickup truck.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously praised Tesla CEO Elon Musk, describing him as a smart guy and talented businessman. This admiration may contribute to the interest in Tesla’s vehicles in Russia and neighboring countries.
As Tesla prepares for a marketing tour of the Cybertruck in Europe, incidents like the one involving the attempted smuggling of Cybertrucks shed light on the challenges of international demand for the highly sought-after vehicle. Despite efforts to restrict its availability outside the U.S., the Cybertruck continues to attract attention and intrigue from enthusiasts worldwide.
