UK Police Seize Tesla Cybertruck, Deem It “Not Road Legal”
In a recent development, UK police have impounded a Tesla Cybertruck, declaring it “not road legal in the UK.” The vehicle, which was registered and insured abroad, was seized under the Road Traffic Act, and as such registration is prohibited for permanent UK residents.
Authorities have raised concerns about the Cybertruck’s size and potential safety risks to pedestrians and other road users in the event of collisions. Even with proper documentation, the vehicle is considered too large and dangerous for European roads.
The driver of the impounded Cybertruck has been reported, marking a significant enforcement action against the high-profile electric vehicle.
This incident highlights the growing phenomenon of “Euro FOMO” (Fear of Missing Out) surrounding the Cybertruck. Despite legal challenges, several of these vehicles have been transported to Europe. In September, Ramzan Kadyrov, leader of the Chechen Republic, shared images of a Cybertruck fitted with a mounted machine gun, further fueling interest in the vehicle.
Czechia registered its first Cybertruck in July after modifications were made to comply with local regulations. In the UK, YouTuber Yianni Charalambous is attempting to register a Cybertruck, facing numerous regulatory hurdles. Required modifications include changing indicator light colors and installing rear fog lights to meet UK standards.
The Cybertruck’s weight of over 6,600 pounds poses additional challenges due to UK vehicle class weight restrictions, further complicating its path to road legality in the country.
As enthusiasm for Tesla’s innovative electric truck continues to grow globally, this incident underscores the complex regulatory landscape that new vehicle designs must navigate, particularly when crossing international borders.
