The Tesla Cybertruck has been banned from public roads in Flanders after failing to meet strict European safety regulations.
The announcement follows an incident where a man drove his Cybertruck through the coastal town of Knokke, sparking concerns over the vehicle’s safety and compliance with Belgian laws.
At 5.88 meters long, 2.03 meters wide, and 1.9 meters high, the electric pick-up truck, designed by Elon Musk’s company, has an imposing presence.
Weighing more than three tonnes without passengers, the vehicle’s large size and sharp corners have raised alarms from road safety experts. In particular, the truck’s design poses potential risks to pedestrians and cyclists in the event of a collision.
The Cybertruck has recently appeared on European roads, but it is not yet available for sale in the region. In October, a man from Flemish Brabant made headlines as the first Belgian to own the vehicle, which was purchased directly from the United States.
His decision to drive the truck in Knokke, an upscale coastal city known for its luxurious displays, led to further scrutiny of the vehicle’s roadworthiness in Belgium.
Under Belgian law, owners of vehicles not yet sold in Europe must obtain a homologation document to prove that the vehicle complies with European safety standards. Without this certification, the Cybertruck cannot be legally driven on public roads in Flanders.
Flemish Mobility Minister Annick De Ridder confirmed that the Cybertruck had not been registered or approved for use in the region. Flemish MP Andy Pieters (N-VA) raised questions about whether the ministry had received the necessary application.
De Ridder responded by stating that she had not received any formal request, meaning the vehicle is not authorized for road use.
“I myself do not decide which vehicles are allowed on Flemish roads; there are strict regulations for this on what is and is not allowed,” De Ridder explained.
“In order to give a definite answer about the suitability of this vehicle on Flemish roads, the vehicle would have to be tested according to European regulations.”
For Tesla to make the Cybertruck roadworthy in Europe, the vehicle would need to undergo a series of modifications. The European safety standards, particularly regarding pedestrian protection during collisions, are more stringent than those in the United States.
The Cybertruck’s sharp-edged design does not meet these requirements, necessitating changes to the vehicle’s structure.
Additionally, the truck is not currently compatible with European charging stations, meaning that owners would face challenges in maintaining their mileage.
The approval process for the Cybertruck to be sold in Europe is expected to be lengthy. Tesla will need to submit the vehicle for testing according to EU regulations, and even after meeting the necessary standards, it could take some time before the truck can be sold on the continent.
Although it remains unclear whether the Belgian Cybertruck owner will face a fine, the vehicle’s inability to comply with European regulations is a setback for those eager to drive the futuristic pick-up truck in Belgium and other parts of Europe.
Until Tesla makes the required modifications and obtains the necessary certifications, the Cybertruck will remain off the roads in Flanders.
