Owning a Tesla Cybertruck is already a statement, but opting for a gold-plated version takes that statement to another level. Dr. Kumait Jaroje, a successful entrepreneur and immigrant from Syria, learned this the hard way. Instead of admiration, his flashy ride has attracted relentless harassment, disturbing encounters, and even threats to his family’s safety.
From Luxury to Liability
The Tesla Cybertruck is no ordinary vehicle. With prices starting at $82,000, it’s a status symbol—especially the ultra-exclusive Foundation Series. But Jaroje took it a step further, investing in a gold-plated version. While he saw it as a celebration of his hard work and success, others viewed it differently.
Speaking to CBS News, Jaroje described the backlash:
“People leave nasty messages on my car. Someone even slapped an obscene sticker on it. My wife was horrified when she found it—she broke down in tears, saying she’d never drive the truck again.”
What started as online criticism quickly escalated into real-world harassment.
“I Fear for My Kids’ Safety”
Jaroje says the hostility has become aggressive. His family now fears driving the Cybertruck after a terrifying road incident:
“I was with my kids when a car swerved dangerously close, trying to cut me off. Three guys jumped out, flipping me off and screaming.”
The situation worsened after Tesla CEO Elon Musk accepted a government position under Donald Trump, further polarizing public opinion. Musk’s controversial gestures and statements have already put Tesla owners under increased scrutiny, but Jaroje’s golden Cybertruck makes him an even bigger target.
“I came to this country to work hard and succeed,” he says. “Now, I feel like my success is making me a target.”
Tesla Won’t Take It Back
Desperate for a solution, Jaroje reached out to Tesla, hoping to trade in his golden Cybertruck for a less flashy model. But the company refused, citing their no trade-in policy for the moment.
“They basically told me I’m stuck with it,” he says.
With no help from Tesla and harassment escalating, Jaroje is left questioning whether his dream car was worth the nightmare.
A Bigger Problem Than One Truck
Jaroje believes his story is just one example of a larger issue—growing division and hostility in today’s America.
“If you don’t like something, that’s fine. But don’t attack people for it,” he pleads. “We need more empathy, not more hate.”
His story serves as a harsh reminder that in today’s world, even the car you drive can make you a target.