Tesla Cybertruck Rescued by Pickup Brigade After Off-Road Mishap, Raising Questions

Tesla's Cybertruck faced a real-world challenge: getting stuck off an off-road trail, prompting questions about its touted off-road capabilities.

Despite Tesla's claims of an advanced all-wheel-drive system and a suspension with ample travel and ground clearance, the incident underscores the need for independent testing to validate its performance.

The incident occurred on the Corral Hollow OHV trail in Bear Valley, California, involving a release candidate prototype of the Cybertruck.

According to Electrek, the trending video shows the electric pickup stuck on the side of what some observers argue is more of a dirt road than a true off-road trail. Speculation about the Cybertruck's inability to handle the task points to a reported software issue, leaving the vehicle without lockers.

Despite off-road tires and all-wheel drive, the Cybertruck struggled to navigate the terrain. The presence of some snow on the ground adds to the mystery.

Mixed Reviews

Tesla has introduced new off-road-focused software, including a "Wade Mode" designed to pressurize the battery pack for water fording. This incident highlights the need for further independent testing to validate the Cybertruck's potential as a capable off-road vehicle.

The incident comes days after the official launch of the Tesla Cybertruck. While Tesla's Cybertruck garnered positive reviews during its takeoff, some influencers and users offered critical feedback. Renowned tech reviewer Marques Brownlee praised the truck but later noted on X, "Tesla Cybertruck is notably the first time that Tesla is straight up not delivering on some of the key specs they promised," as reported by Wall Street Journal.

Influencers who didn't have the opportunity for test drives turned to filming their reactions, highlighting certain misses of the Cybertruck. Dan Markham, in a YouTube video, voiced disappointment about the truck's range, stating, "Not everything can be what they dream up at the beginning, but it feels like a massive miss."

One X user, The Tesla Hoe, shared her excitement for the truck but criticized the event's organization, mentioning restrictions like not being allowed to sit in the Cybertruck and being reprimanded for touching the screen. Despite the critiques, there was an overall sense of anticipation and interest surrounding the Cybertruck.

Tesla Reinstates Controversial Clause

In a surprising move, Tesla reportedly reintroduced a resale restriction clause, potentially leading to legal action against Cybertruck buyers attempting to resell within the first year. Business Insider reported that the clause, applicable to the limited launch edition "Foundation Series," mandates offering the vehicle back to Tesla at a reduced price before resale, requiring Tesla's written consent.

Violating these terms could result in legal consequences, including injunctive relief, liquidated damages up to $50,000 or the sale value, and the potential refusal of future vehicle sales. The rationale behind this clause, limited to specific contracts and editions, remains unclear.