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Tesla Cybertruck challenges C8 Corvette Z51 to California drag race and it only ends one way

Published on Feb 17, 2026 at 3:28 PM (UTC+4)
by Keelin McNamara

Last updated on Feb 17, 2026 at 5:01 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by Emma Matthews

A Tesla Cybertruck recently threw down a challenge to a C8 Corvette Z51 in a California drag race.

The latest battle in the EV/ICE-powered saga comes to us from California.

But this time, it is Tesla’s marquee Cybertruck taking on old-school power.

And the showdown would ultimately only end one way.

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Tesla Cybertruck takes on Corvette in California duel

The Tesla Cybertruck has started to become quite the star of the drag strip.

An enormous, four-ton electric pickup probably isn’t the traditional drag strip weapon that comes to mind.

But the Tesla Cybertruck EV has firmly taken on the role.

And it has enjoyed some pretty unbelievable success as well.

EVs as a whole have been sweeping away all challengers before them.

Even drag strip-focused creations, such as the Dodge Demon 170, have struggled to get to grips with the truck’s speed.

This Tesla Cybertruck took on a C8 Corvette Z51 in the California desert - and there was a shock winner
SSDracer

So could a C8 Corvette be the answer to these issues?

Well, last year saw the scenario play out in California.

A video captured by SSDracer saw the two rivals line up at the drag strip.

On one side of the tarmac was, of course, the Tesla Cybertruck.

But lining up alongside it was the C8 Corvette Z51.

Is an upset on the cards?

The Corvette performed a couple of burnouts in order to warm up its tires for the race.

It could be seen – and definitely heard – making its high-revving preparations.

The Tesla Cybertruck, on the other hand, rolled up to the start line silently.

This Tesla Cybertruck took on a C8 Corvette Z51 in the California desert - and there was a shock winner
SSDracer

Then it was time for the moment of truth – which vehicle would reign supreme?

As soon as the light went out, the C8 Corvette Z51 was off to a flying start.

It absolutely flew off the line, while the Tesla Cybertruck hardly moves at all.

The Cybertruck eventually recovered – but then, it was a sprint to the finish.

Ultimately, the C8 Corvette is able to get to the line first.

The Tesla Cybertruck started to claw back the distance rapidly towards the end.

But a major win for petroleum power nonetheless.

Keelin joined the editorial team at Supercar Blondie in February of 2025 and hasn’t looked back. His philosophy of writing from the audience’s POV has worked in his favor, considering that he’s always been a dedicated fan of motorsports, beautiful cars, and the SBMedia brand itself.