A striking green Tesla Cybertruck has been seen navigating the streets of Havana, igniting a spirited discussion across social media platforms this past Friday. Many Cubans are puzzled by how a vehicle from an American brand managed to reach the island, considering the longstanding embargo imposed by Washington on Cuba.
Images of the Cybertruck circulated widely on Facebook. Juan Carloz shared four pictures in the group "Photos of Havana," stating, "With the owner's permission. Tesla Cybertruck in Cuba, 1st and 70th, blessings to the owner." Evelio Perez posted three more photos in the group "DIPLOMATIC CARS IN CUBA," exclaiming, "Look at what I found in front of the Zapata police station, this beauty of a car." The vehicle was also spotted during nighttime in the Cuban capital.
"I've already seen two more on the streets. So, where's the embargo?" questioned one local. "A Cybertruck... It beat the heartless blockade imposed by the government on the people," commented a Cuban resident.
Another Cuban referenced Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, saying, "Oh, but there's no blockade, right... Then the Grill complains when the truth is told in front of the world, and then this appears. Shows that the embargo is just a fairy tale. They're just jokers." A sarcastic take suggested, "Bruno Rodríguez brought it back after his UN visit where he spoke about the damage the embargo does to the people."
Yet another individual mused, "And I wonder, how did it get to Cuba if we have an embargo, right? I wish the embargo didn't exist so all Cubans could buy what we want. Oh, by the way, that car is a Cybertruck, it's electrically powered. I'm happy for the owner who can have it, but it's a shame they can't use it because, with the energy situation in our country due to the embargo, they won't be able to charge it."
The design of the vehicle also drew diverse opinions. "It might be modern, but it's not as beautiful as vintage cars. Looks like a war tank," remarked one user. Among the supporters, one argued, "We need to rethink beauty standards. There are other adjectives: modern, innovative, futuristic, and expensive." Another defended its engineering, saying, "Those who know nothing speak nonsense; this is a panoramic Tesla, a powerhouse, it can tow trailers."
Back in September 2025, the arrival of a modern car from Miami sparked a similar debate. The embargo doesn't completely ban all exports but sets a general denial policy with permitted exceptions, and vehicles usually arrive via the Miami-Mariel maritime route under licenses from the Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control. By August 2026, Cuba had introduced new regulations allowing individuals to import an electric vehicle once without commercial intent.
The 2026 Tesla Cybertruck is priced in the United States between $74,990 (Dual Motor AWD version) and $99,990 (Cyberbeast). To this cost, one must add maritime shipping and Cuban duties, making the total price far beyond the reach of any salary paid in Cuban pesos.
As of now, the identity of the owner of the green Tesla Cybertruck in Havana remains a mystery.
Understanding the Embargo and Vehicle Imports in Cuba
How can a Tesla Cybertruck be imported to Cuba despite the embargo?
The embargo does not outright ban all exports to Cuba. It establishes a general policy of denial, with certain exceptions that allow for specific imports under licenses from the Office of Foreign Assets Control. These vehicles usually arrive via the Miami-Mariel maritime route.
What are the costs associated with importing a Tesla Cybertruck to Cuba?
In addition to the base price of the Tesla Cybertruck, which ranges from $74,990 to $99,990, there are additional costs such as maritime shipping and Cuban tariffs, making the total cost significantly higher.
Are there any regulations in Cuba regarding the import of electric vehicles?
Yes, as of August 2026, Cuba has allowed individuals to import an electric vehicle once, without commercial purposes, under new regulations.