- Buyers can now pre-order a Cybertruck with a frunk-mounted generator
- Archimedes Defense is responsible for the generator install, and upfitting more armor
- Pricing hasn't been announced for the extra armor and generator
A Tesla Cybertruck ready for overlanding or even crossing enemy lines is now a reality thanks to Archimedes Defense, a company that specializes in supplying high-performance power generators to government agencies.
It has developed a generator designed to fit in the Cybertruck's front trunk and capable of running on a variety of fuels including jet fuel, diesel, and biodiesel.
The generator, known as the Genset, features a single-piston design and delivers a maximum charging rate of 125 kw. An included cable means it can charge other EVs when required. It features Tesla's proprietary NACS connector and includes adaptors for non-NACS vehicles.
Archimedes has gone a step further and created a series of protective upgrades for the Cybertruck aimed at both civilian and military use. Branded Sting, and developed with Tesla tuner Unplugged Performance's upfitting division, the upgrades are grouped in three packages with intensifying levels of protection.
Archimedes Defense and UP.FIT Cybertruck Sting package
The basic package is the Sting Baja which adds Starlink connectivity (also owned by Tesla CEO Elon Musk) with the satellite receiver mounted in the bed. The package also includes the generator up front.
The next two packages are for when you want your Cybertruck to be truly ready for the apocalypse, according to Archimedes. These packages are designed to combine with the generator which needs to be added separately.
There's the Sting Protector package which includes an off-road kit, as well as steel armor protection capable of withstanding 7.62-millimeter assault rifle rounds. The company said this package is suited for environments with a “moderate threat.”
If you happen to drive in areas susceptible to more acute threats, there's the Sting APC package. It takes armoring to the next level via steel and armor plating designed to shield occupants from 14.5-mm heavy machine gun rounds. The package also provides protection against IEDs and mines, the company said.
Archimedes Defense and UP.FIT Cybertruck Sting package
Prices for the various upgrades wasn't announced.
Tesla itself plans a range extender for the Cybertruck, although this will simply be an additional battery that's about the size of a toolbox and will sit against the back of the cab. It's due to be available in early 2025 and will cost around $16,000.
That's expensive, and that seems to be the way of the Cybertruck. The electric pickup's starting price was bumped up to almost $100,000 earlier in August, as a model with rear-wheel drive that was priced at just over $60,000 is no longer available on Tesla's website. The base Cybertruck now has all-wheel drive, a peak 600 hp, and an estimated 318 miles of range. Tesla's range extender, when it finally appears, is estimated to increase the range to 470 miles in total.
