Tesla Cybertruck Receives Off-Road Update
In a recent post on Twitter, information about the Cybertruck’s off-road capabilities was shared. The update was detailed in a tweet by Tesla, showcasing the latest features added to the electric truck. Lead engineer Wes Morrill mentioned that the update is currently being installed on wave 1 vehicles. This patch includes driving modes for various terrains, differential locks, adjustable torque split, inching control, “Tent Mode,” and more. These new features are aimed at enhancing the Cybertruck’s performance and competitiveness in the market.
The Cybertruck, Tesla’s entry into the electric truck segment, faced tough competition from vehicles like the Rivian R1T. To level the playing field, Tesla introduced the off-road update to showcase the Cybertruck’s capabilities. In a test conducted by Top Gear, the Cybertruck was pitted against the Rivian R1T in various off-road scenarios to determine how well it performs with the latest software update.
The Top Gear team took both trucks to Johnson Valley in California, a renowned off-road location with diverse terrain. The test included driving on dunes and rocky trails to gauge the trucks’ performance. Both trucks were prepared for the test by adjusting tire pressure and removing the Cybertruck’s wheel covers to prevent damage. The Cybertruck’s ability to navigate challenging terrain without issues was highlighted during the test.
During the test, both trucks performed similarly in an inching test, showcasing their ability to maintain traction on uneven surfaces. However, on a fast and bumpy road, the Cybertruck exhibited some issues with instability, bouncing more than the Rivian R1T. Despite encountering minor obstacles like the tonneau cover coming loose, the Cybertruck completed the course slightly slower than its competitor.
The Baja and Rally modes in the Tesla and Rivian, respectively, showed advantages for the R1T due to its tire performance. The test concluded with both trucks attempting a jump, with the Rivian experiencing bent tent poles upon impact. In contrast, the Cybertruck sustained no visible damage, highlighting its durability in rugged conditions.
Overall, the Cybertruck’s performance in the Top Gear test showcased its improved off-road capabilities following the software update. While the rigidity of the chassis posed some limitations in certain scenarios, the Cybertruck demonstrated promising potential in challenging terrains. As rumors hint at a higher-performance R1T from Rivian in the future, it remains to be seen how Tesla will respond with a potential upgrade like the Cyberbeast Plaid.
For more information, readers can contact the author at james@thedrive.com. Stay tuned for updates on the latest developments in the electric truck market.
