Archimedes Defense unveils military-grade Tesla Cybertruck APC with ceramic armor and 800V generator
On August 16, 2024, the American company Archimedes Defense, in collaboration with Unplugged Performance, introduced the “Sting” package, an aftermarket upgrade for the Tesla Cybertruck designed to enhance its functionality in extreme conditions and high-threat environments. This package is available in three variants (Sting Baja, Sting Protector, and Sting APC), each tailored to specific operational needs for both government and civilian use.
The Sting Baja variant is intended for off-grid applications, equipping the Cybertruck with the Up Invincible off-road package to improve its performance on rugged terrain. A key feature of this variant is the AMP Drive G125, a compact, lightweight, frunk-mounted aviation-derived 800V genset generator. This genset is multi-fuel capable, operating on Jet A, JP-8, diesel, and biodiesel. It enables the Cybertruck to be supercharged at up to 125 kW and also allows it to charge other vehicles, both NACS and non-NACS, via an included charging cable with adapters. This variant is designed for operations in remote or disaster-affected areas, where maintaining vehicle operation is critical.
The Sting Protector variant builds on the Up Invincible off-road package by adding bolt-on, bolt-off external offset steel armor plating. This armor is engineered to withstand 7.62mm assault rifle rounds, offering protection from key angles in moderate-threat environments. This variant is intended for private individuals, corporate entities, and government agencies that require enhanced security in areas with potential but not extreme threats. The Protector variant is available with or without the genset, providing flexibility depending on specific operational needs.
For high-threat environments, the Sting APC variant offers advanced protection, including enhanced defense against IEDs and mines. It features upgraded bolt-on, bolt-off external offset steel and ceramic armor plating designed to protect against 14.5mm heavy machine gun rounds. This variant is suited for military and defense operations where severe threats are anticipated. The APC variant also offers the option to include the genset for extended missions, allowing the vehicle to operate without reliance on external power sources for longer periods.
The Sting package incorporates several modifications to the Cybertruck’s design, including thicker layers of steel and ceramic armor, larger off-road tires, additional fog lamps, and two large antennas mounted at the rear. The reinforced doors reduce the size of the side windows, and the upper rear half of the vehicle is redesigned to resemble an airport traffic control tower, reflecting its intended utility.
The Sting package does not modify the Cybertruck’s existing powertrain, but the inclusion of the AMP Drive G125 genset in the frunk significantly enhances its off-grid capabilities. This feature allows the Cybertruck to operate independently of traditional charging infrastructure and provides the ability to assist other electric vehicles in need of charging.
The introduction of the Sting package for the Tesla Cybertruck by Archimedes Defense and Unplugged Performance presents a new option for military applications, particularly relevant given recent developments such as Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov’s deployment of a modified Cybertruck equipped with a 12.7mm heavy machine gun to Ukraine. Furthermore, the inclusion of the AMP Drive G125 genset in the Sting package is particularly pertinent in conflict zones where charging infrastructure may be unreliable or damaged. The Sting APC variant, which offers protection against IEDs, mines, and heavy machine gun fire, could align with the requirements of such operations.
The Tesla Cybertruck, introduced in 2019, is Tesla’s entry into the pickup truck market. The design, influenced by futuristic and sci-fi elements, features a stainless steel exoskeleton and angular lines, which have been compared to the vehicles seen in “Blade Runner.” Initially planned for production in 2021, the Cybertruck faced multiple delays, with the first units being delivered in late 2023. The truck’s design and concept challenge conventional pickup manufacturing practices, integrating advanced technology within an electric vehicle framework.
Weighing 3,104 kg, the Cybertruck is offered in several variants. The top “Cyberbeast” model features a tri-motor all-wheel-drive system, providing 630 kW (845 horsepower) and accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.6 seconds. This version has a towing capacity of 4,990 kg and a range of approximately 515 km, extendable to over 700 km with an optional range extender. The vehicle measures 5.68 meters in length, 2.41 meters in width, and 1.74 meters in height. It also introduces a 48-volt electrical system, which differs from the industry-standard 12 volts, potentially influencing future vehicle designs.
The Cybertruck has been at the center of various controversies, especially regarding its safety and durability claims. The stainless steel exoskeleton is marketed as highly resistant to damage, and its windows, described as “armored glass,” are designed to withstand significant impacts. However, during its initial reveal, the windows shattered in a live demonstration, leading to skepticism about these claims. Additionally, the truck’s design has raised concerns about pedestrian safety due to its sharp angles and large size, which could pose higher risks in pedestrian collisions compared to conventional trucks. Despite these issues, Tesla states that the Cybertruck complies with all necessary safety standards and includes advanced features like a hospital-grade HEPA filter and a suite of driver assistance technologies.