Tesla CEO Elon Musk has announced that Cybertruck deliveries in California will be delayed as Tesla has decided to donate several vehicles to assist communities affected by the devastating Palisades and Eaton fires. These fires have left significant areas in Los Angeles without power, prompting Tesla to donate Cybertrucks to serve as mobile base stations for power and connectivity.
The Altadena Mountain Rescue Team shared a photo of the donated trucks on social media, highlighting their role in providing electricity and free Wi-Fi through Starlink systems to impacted communities, including local sheriff’s stations. According to Tesla, the Cybertruck’s battery can supply backup power to a home for up to three days, making it a critical tool in emergency response efforts.
Musk addressed the situation on X (formerly Twitter), writing, “Apologies to those expecting Cybertruck deliveries in California over the next few days. We need to use those trucks as mobile base stations to provide power to Starlink Internet terminals in areas of LA without connectivity. A new truck will be delivered end of week.”
As of Sunday night, 24 fatalities have been confirmed from the two fires—16 from the Eaton Fire and 8 from the Palisades Fire—according to the Medical Examiner. Musk added that more Cybertrucks are being prepared for deployment in the greater Los Angeles and Malibu areas to support recovery efforts.
Tesla’s response highlights the innovative capabilities of its vehicles in disaster scenarios and reinforces the company’s commitment to using technology to aid those in need.