Advertising For some people, buying a vehicle is just a matter of finding what drives well and fits the budget. But for others, especially in today’s hyper-polarized world, it can feel more like choosing a side in a cultural battle. And a few vehicles right now spark that feeling. Earlier this morning, I found myself in the "Tesla Cybertruck Owners" Facebook group when I came across a post by Robert Rob. He's seriously considering a Tesla Cybertruck but is concerned about whether the recent wave of backlash and public harassment surrounding the truck has truly died down. Here's what he had to say: “I want to buy one, but I’m not sure if the political backlash has calmed down enough yet. I’m fine with the looks. That doesn’t bother me. But if I’m driving my family around, I don’t want to get harassed or targeted because someone thinks I’m trying to make a statement. It’s just a truck to me. I just want something electric and durable.” From Admiration to Anxiety Let’s not forget that Tesla designed the Cybertruck to disrupt. It was never meant to blend in in a normal sense. From its stainless-steel exoskeleton to its brutalist lines, the truck dares people to react. And react they did. Some folks see it as a bold leap into the future, while others view it as a symbol of everything they love or hate about Tesla, Elon Musk, or even tech culture in general. While the Cybertruck might be hailed by some as the most amazing vehicle ever built, there are plenty of owners like Robert who love the engineering and tech, but aren’t sure they want to make themselves a target by driving one. Let’s look at some of the responses to Robert’s post. The conversation paints a clear picture of what new buyers might expect and how those experiences differ based on where you live and how you drive. Jonathan Ritchie offered a sense of reassurance: “It’s possible, although improbable that you will encounter it. More questions and curiosity than anything. Far more love than hate always. Do it. Best vehicle you will ever buy.” Jonathan’s perspective echoes what many early adopters have said: if you can get past the stares, you might find more admiration than animosity. And for those who do face challenges, the support from the Tesla community can be surprisingly strong. Then came Rick Richter, who added some regional contrast: “I live in the People’s Republic of Ann Arbor and it is still constant.” The irony in Rick's joke is that Musk's recent political shift has alienated many on the left, but even his fallout with the right leaves him politically isolated nowadays. In places where EVs were once embraced without hesitation, the Cybertruck now gets side-eyed not for what it is, but for what people think it represents. It shows how political baggage can really cling to a brand. Bryan Phifer had a more optimistic take: “Way more positive than negative. The kids love them.” This is something we’ve been seeing more of lately. Whether it’s a charging stop, a grocery store parking lot, or even a school pickup line, the Cybertruck draws kids in like a real-life Hot Wheels. It’s a reminder of how simple children really are. For them, politics is the last thing they’re worried about. It’s just a cool car. Brian Griffin took a cheekier angle: “I still get flipped off but it makes things kind of exciting.” There’s definitely an element of defiance among some owners. They lean into the attention and almost wear the reactions as a badge of honor. And let’s be honest, for a few people, that edge might even be part of the appeal. Advertising