A Tesla Cybertruck, known for its distinctive design, has been confiscated after being driven illegally in Greater Manchester.
Police officers from Greater Manchester Police (GMP) intercepted the vehicle in Whitefield, Bury, upon noticing it being operated by a permanent UK resident.
The electric vehicle, which is not road legal in the UK, was found to be both registered and insured abroad, a practice prohibited under British regulations.
In a statement, Bury Police explained: “The driver was a permanent UK resident, but the vehicle was registered and insured abroad, which is not allowed in the UK. The Tesla Cybertruck is not road legal here and lacks a certificate of conformity.”
The police highlighted the potential safety risks posed by the vehicle: “While this may seem trivial to some, legitimate concerns exist about the safety of other road users or pedestrians in the event of a collision with a Cybertruck.”
The vehicle was seized under Section 165 of the Road Traffic Act, and the driver has been reported.
The incident has been referred to Operation Wolverine, an initiative launched in 2007 to tackle uninsured driving. The driver will need to provide proof of ownership and valid insurance to reclaim the vehicle.
However, even if the Cybertruck is returned, it remains illegal to drive on UK roads without obtaining the necessary certifications and modifications.
This case underscores the importance of adhering to UK vehicle regulations and the potential repercussions for failing to comply.