A YouTuber who brought a Tesla Cybertruck to the UK earlier this year is encountering challenges in getting it roadworthy due to ongoing safety and regulatory issues.
Yianni Charalambous, who runs the popular YouTube channel Yiannimize with 2.19 million subscribers, is a prominent car enthusiast on the platform.
Throughout his career, he has assisted many celebrities in custom-wrapping their vehicles and frequently tests unique cars.
Recently, the automotive aficionado revealed that he had acquired the first Tesla Cybertruck in the UK.
After purchasing it from a previous owner in California, Yianni intended to transport it to England by ship.
However, according to Auto Evolution, he faced his first setback when denied shipping the vehicle due to its fire risk.
Choosing to fly the Cybertruck over, the YouTuber has encountered further obstacles in getting it street-legal.
These issues include obtaining a British license plate (currently an Albanian one is fitted) and altering the red indicator lights.
The Sun notes that in the UK, it is mandatory for indicator lights to be amber so they are distinguishable from the red brake lights.
Regulations also require indicators on side mirrors.
Fog lights must be installed on the Cybertruck before it is considered road-legal in the UK, as only those that activate with the car’s headlights are permitted.
Another obstacle is the sharp edges of the Tesla, which are also problematic.
The Cybertruck’s angular design, including its body, boot, and front end, does not comply with European crash regulations.
Thus, if Yianni hopes to get this vehicle on the road by Christmas, he will need to cover any hazardous edges with rubber.
These changes are necessary for the Cybertruck to pass its IVA (Individual Vehicle Approval) test. So far, it has been a challenging process for Yianni.
In one of his YouTube videos, Yianni asked a mechanic working on the modifications if he thought there was a possibility it would pass the IVA test in the future.
“What is your honest opinion on getting this past? Online people are saying ‘You’ve got no chance’,” he stated.
“I have a history of importing cars and working with this kind of thing,” the expert replied.
“There’s two types of approvals you can get. There’s the type approval which the manufacturer has to do, and it’s a lot more stringent.
“IVA is not as stringent, you see. Everything is somewhat easier. So I reckon, if we can get all the lights working, they’ll register it.”
The mechanic did mention it would take about one or two weeks to complete the modifications.
Therefore, the Christmas deadline is still within reach, albeit just barely.
Keep an eye on Yianni Charalambous’ YouTube channel for more updates on his Cybertruck journey.