The Tesla Cybertruck is bulletproof, but it would have many compromises that most people wouldn’t need.

Elon Musk stated that the pickup could withstand a 9 millimeter bullet during the Tesla Cybertruck debut. The failure test of the vehicle’s windows at the unveiling was not enough to prove it. An argument on Opposite lock shows why the truck isn’t bullet-resistant. At least, not in the manner that most vehicle armorers and automakers use this term. This factor should not matter to the majority of buyers.

Internationally recognized standards have been established by the German Institute for Standardization for vehicle protection levels. Three rounds are shot from approximately 33 feet (10 m) away into a triangular area of 4.7 inches (120 mm).

Because the bullet-resistant clear material is very heavy, it is a major challenge to create a windshield or windows that passes this test. Opposite lock states that armorers typically need to add hundreds to a vehicle in order to get a bullet resistance certification. This could be a problem for the driving range.

The location of the windows, in addition to the weight penalty means that this heavy material will also raise the center gravity. This could have negative consequences for the ride and handling.

Musk should stop promoting the Cybertruck’s bullet-proof status. This feature is not needed by the majority of buyers and has major drawbacks in terms of weight and cost. It can’t withstand the rigorous requirements of international standards.

It is worth noting, however, that the Cybertruck on the debut is a preproduction vehicle and that changes are almost certain for production. Motor1.com reached out to Tesla to get clarifications about their plans for building a bullet-resistant pickup.