In Nigeria, the Tesla Cybertruck has become the ultimate definition of riches and luxury, symbolizing wealth and status among the elite. Popular celebrities like Davido, Omah Lay, and Burna Boy are snapping up these futuristic EVs, with Davido flaunting his customized matte black model worth over ₦300 million, Omah Lay acquiring not one but two Cybertrucks and cruising Lagos streets in them, and Burna Boy gifting a ₦500 million unit to his friend while owning one himself since early 2024.
Launched in late 2023, the Cybertruck’s bulletproof exoskeleton and electric prowess have made it a must-have for Nigeria’s high-flyers, despite no official Tesla presence in the country. From importation challenges to charging in a power-unstable nation, this guide covers everything you need to know about owning a Tesla Cybetruck in Nigeria.
Is the Cybertruck Available in Nigeria?
While Tesla does not have an office in Nigeria, individuals can purchase the Cybertruck through local dealers and importers that bring them in from the US. These include exotic car dealerships and online platforms listing imported models.
To get one, you can contact these local importers or purchase from Tesla’s US site and arrange shipping. Global production has increased in 2025, but high demand means wait times.
Key Specifications and Models
The 2025 Cybertruck lineup includes:
Model
Starting Price (USD)
Range (miles)
0-60 mph
Towing Capacity (lbs)
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive
~$60,990
Up to 250
6.5s
7,500
RWD
All-Wheel Drive
~$79,990
Up to 340
4.1s
11,000
AWD
Cyberbeast (Tri-Motor)
~$99,990
Up to 320
2.6s
11,000
AWD
Featuring a 123 kWh battery, steer-by-wire, and adjustable air suspension, it’s tough for Nigeria’s rough roads but may need tweaks for potholes and off-roading.
How to Import a Cybertruck to Nigeria
Steps for importation:
Buy Overseas: Order via Tesla.com or US dealers, then ship from there.
Shipping: Freight forwarders charge $5,000–$10,000 for container transport to Lagos ports, taking 4–6 weeks.
Customs: Handle via Nigeria Customs Service with documents like Bill of Lading and Form M. EVs benefit from 2024 incentives, including VAT exemptions and reduced duties (potentially 0–20%), plus the Import Duty Exemption Certificate for green vehicles.
Clearance: Expect 1–2 weeks, but hire an EV-savvy agent to speed things up.
Costs Involved
Let’s start with the most significant hurdle: the price. While a new Cybertruck starts at around $60,000 to $100,000 in the U.S. (depending on the trim), that’s just the beginning of the story for a Nigerian buyer.
Vehicle Price: $60,000–$100,000 USD.
Shipping & Insurance: $5,000–$15,000.
Duties/Taxes: Low due to EV perks, but total landing cost: ₦150–400 million ($90,000–$250,000 USD).
Registration: ₦200,000–500,000.
Running costs: Electricity at ₦10,000–20,000/month, far cheaper than petrol.
Charging Infrastructure
Nigeria’s EV charging network is still nascent but rapidly evolving as of September 2025, driven by government incentives and private initiatives to support the growing adoption of vehicles like the Cybertruck. While there are no official Tesla Superchargers in the country, significant progress has been made.
Home charging is the most practical solution for many owners. A Level 2 charger installation costs ₦500,000–1 million and can fully charge the Cybertruck in 8–10 hours when connected to the grid. In power-outage-prone areas, owners often use diesel generators—though ironic for an EV, it’s a reliable workaround.
Maintenance and Service
Maintaining a Tesla Cybertruck in Nigeria presents unique challenges due to the absence of official Tesla service centers, but local adaptations and emerging EV expertise are filling the gap. EVs like the Cybertruck require less routine maintenance than traditional vehicles—no oil changes, spark plugs, or complex gearboxes—potentially saving owners significant costs long-term. However, issues like battery degradation or sensor failures can arise, as seen in cases where warning lights indicated power disconnections, leading to breakdowns.
Parts must often be imported from the US via services like DHL or local agents, which can be costly and time-consuming. Warranty claims typically require shipping the vehicle back to the US, adding to expenses. Over-the-air (OTA) software updates handle many fixes remotely, such as optimizations for performance or features, without needing a physical visit.
Driving Experience and Practicality
Driving a Tesla Cybertruck in Nigeria is a thrilling yet humbling experience, blending futuristic performance with the realities of chaotic roads, drawing immense attention while testing its durability. Owners describe the acceleration as exhilarating—going 0-60 mph in as little as 2.6 seconds in the Cyberbeast model—making it feel like a “beast” on highways, but Nigeria’s potholes, floods, and traffic often “humble” it.
It turns heads everywhere: Sightings in Lagos or Abuja traffic spark excitement, with crowds gathering for photos and videos. Off-road capability shines, but urban chaos tests brakes and tires faster. Overall, it’s for the bold: A status booster with low running costs, but demands adaptation to Nigeria’s unique driving environment.
Conclusion
The Cybertruck is a bold luxury choice in Nigeria, especially for celebs like Davido, Omah Lay, and Burna Boy who embody its status. With EV incentives growing, it’s becoming more viable. Consult agents, budget wisely, and join online communities for advice. Maybe Tesla’s African expansion is next!
