Tesla Cybertruck has received a significant update, enhancing its off-road capabilities. This latest software update introduces traction modes, locking differential abilities, and a tent mode, aligning the electric truck with the standard expectations for off-road vehicles.
(Photo by FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images)
Enhancing Tesla Cybertruck's Off-Road Capabilities
In a significant software upgrade, the Tesla Cybertruck now offers additional traction modes, locking differential capabilities, and a tent mode, meeting the expectations for off-road electric vehicles.
This latest over-the-air software update brings long-awaited 4x4-style features to early owners of the Tesla Cybertruck.
The update announced through a post by Tesla's Cybertruck account on X, introduces an Off-Road Mode screen featuring various settings and options. These include locking differentials, disabling rear steering, and more.
The Off-Road Mode offers two primary settings: Overland Mode, designed for consistent handling and improved traction on various terrains like rock, gravel, snow, and sand, and Baja Mode, which enhances balance and maneuverability.
Wes Morrill, the lead engineer for the Cybertruck, shared additional insights about the update.
According to Morrill, the app now offers a convenient overview of the vehicle's status, allows users to navigate on-board camera feeds, and provides one-touch access to off-road functionalities.
Furthermore, Cybertruck owners can activate Wade Mode, a feature designed to elevate the truck so it can safely traverse deep water.
However, it's important to note that despite previous statements from Elon Musk suggesting that the Model S and Cybertruck could briefly function as boats, utilizing Wade Mode is not covered under warranty.
Tesla has introduced CyberTent mode, a feature that ensures the truck remains level on uneven surfaces, maintains air conditioning, keeps the tonneau cover open, and powers the outlets.
This functionality is intended to complement Tesla's Basecamp tent add-on, which serves its purpose effectively despite its unattractive appearance.
Interestingly, Tesla had sold this $3,000 kit to Cybertruck owners for over a month before releasing the software necessary to utilize it fully.
Evaluating the Tesla Cybertruck's Off-Road Performance
For a while, Tesla's Cybertruck was marketed as the ultimate vehicle for surviving an apocalyptic scenario in true Mad Max fashion.
However, early prototypes encountered challenges, often getting stuck in situations where traditional trucks like the Ford F-150 or Jeep Wrangler excelled.
Additionally, the Cybertruck didn't always outperform its electric vehicle counterparts. Yet, by introducing new app controls, Top Gear recently subjected the Cybertruck to a rigorous off-road test, showing promising results.
Now, the Cybertruck needs to deliver on its other promises to solidify its reputation.
Customers who had scheduled delivery appointments for their Tesla Cybertrucks were disappointed over the weekend when they received notifications of cancellations.
Users speculated that the cancellations were due to potential issues with accelerator lubrication leading to pedal slippage. Omar from the Whole Mars Blog mentioned that the delivery delay could extend to seven days.
In response, Tesla apologized to affected customers, acknowledging the delay in car preparation and the subsequent cancellation of their delivery arrangements.
