In the quaint town of Bac Ninh, Vietnam, Truong Van Dao, a woodworker and car enthusiast, has achieved a remarkable feat: constructing a fully-functional replica of Tesla’s much-anticipated Cybertruck, entirely out of wood. This extraordinary project, which cost Dao $15,000, is not just a static model but a drivable vehicle that he’s been using to transport his family.
Dao’s passion for wooden vehicles is not new; he has previously created a collection that includes a tank, a Bugatti replica, and a child-sized Mercedes AVTR. However, his admiration for Elon Musk and Tesla spurred him to embark on this ambitious Cybertruck project. Timed to coincide with the release of the real Cybertruck, Dao documented the entire process on his YouTube channel, ND-Woodworking Art, revealing that it took just 100 days to complete.
The construction of this wooden Cybertruck began with a metal chassis, frame, and wheels. Dao then meticulously added wooden panels, seats, and wheel trims. The vehicle also features LED blinkers and an illuminated “X” logo on one of the doors. To ensure durability, Dao used waterproof wood, demonstrating his attention to detail and commitment to quality.
In addition to the Cybertruck, Dao crafted a functional Cyberquad, a small ATV-like vehicle, which fits perfectly in the pickup truck’s trunk. This addition not only showcases Dao’s skill but also his understanding of the Tesla ecosystem, where products often complement each other.
Dao’s project caught significant attention on social media, with his videos garnering over 70 million views on TikTok. His work was so impressive that it prompted comments from users suggesting that Tesla could take inspiration from his craftsmanship. The project’s success reached its pinnacle when Dao reached out to Musk and Tesla, offering them his wooden Cybertruck as a gift. In a heartfelt post, Dao expressed his deep admiration for Musk and Tesla, acknowledging the challenges they faced in bringing the Cybertruck to fruition and reaffirming his faith in their vision.
Musk’s response to Dao’s offer was positive and appreciative, further validating Dao’s efforts and passion. This interaction led to Dao being invited to the Tesla Cybertruck launch and discussions about shipping the wooden replica to the US.
Dao’s achievements extend beyond the Tesla community. After creating a wooden replica of the Audi Skysphere, he was invited to meet with Audi’s head of design, indicating the broad recognition of his talent and creativity.
The real Tesla Cybertruck, meanwhile, is set to make a significant impact in the automotive world. With only 10 units being delivered at its launch, the vehicle’s price remains a topic of speculation. Initially announced in 2019 with a starting price of under $40,000, experts now predict it could be priced around $100,000, reflecting its unique design and advanced features.
Truong Van Dao’s wooden Cybertruck is a testament to human ingenuity, creativity, and the power of passion. It stands as a unique tribute to Tesla and Elon Musk, bridging the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern automotive innovation. As Dao prepares to send his creation to the US, he not only represents the aspirations of many Tesla fans and enthusiasts but also highlights the universal appeal and inspiration that innovative companies like Tesla can generate across cultures and continents.
