A TikTok video posted by user @navedosalvarez has captured attention on social media, featuring a luxurious blue Ford Raptor truck navigating through Cuban streets. The video is accompanied by the phrase: “It’s not the same to have it in the USA as in the Yuma.”
The footage reveals the truck with Cuban license plates, suggesting it is registered for private use on the island. This vehicle, valued at over $80,000 in the United States, is notable for its rugged design, large tires, and interior carbon fiber finishes.
Shot in what appears to be a residential Cuban neighborhood, the video showcases both the exterior and interior of this lavish vehicle, displaying luxury features rarely seen in a country where government salaries barely exceed 4,000 Cuban pesos (less than $15 per month at the informal exchange rate).
The post has sparked hundreds of comments and reactions, many expressing surprise at the presence of such a high-end truck in Cuba, where importing modern cars is a privilege reserved for a select few.
While some users praised the owner's show of luxury, others criticized the stark contrast to the harsh economic reality faced by most Cubans. “In Cuba, that’s like having a plane,” remarked one online commenter. Another sarcastically noted, “It’s not the same to have it in Miami as in Marianao.”
In Cuba, the term “la Yuma” is commonly used to refer to the United States, playing into the video's message that the value or status of a vehicle dramatically shifts depending on the country of ownership.
Ford Raptor in Cuba: Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it rare to see a Ford Raptor in Cuba?
Due to Cuba's restrictive importation policies and economic conditions, modern vehicles like the Ford Raptor are rare and usually only available to a privileged few.
What does 'la Yuma' mean in Cuban slang?
'La Yuma' is a colloquial term used in Cuba to refer to the United States, often highlighting the perceived differences in lifestyle and opportunities between the two countries.