Tesla’s unique and polarizing Cybertruck has come in for criticism for a lack of off-road prowess, but that appears to be in that past with a recent software/firmware update that includes multiple dedicated off-road and overlanding modes – and perhaps not surprisingly, autonomous off-road modes. The update is available to Cybertruck owners for free from Tesla and typically can be installed over the air when the truck has access to the internet via wifi. The modes are accessed by opening a dedicated “Off-Road” app located on the Cybertruck’s central display screen.
According to Tesla, activating the app puts the Cybertruck into “Off Road Mode,” a sort of umbrella mode that offers sub-modes, including Overland, Baja, Wade Mode, Trail Assist, and Locking Differentials mode. Beyond that, there are numerous configuration options within each sub-mode for scenarios including Grave and Deep Snow, Sand, and water crossings. Drivers have extensive-fine-tuning capability including over suspension, clearance, engine braking, traction and more.
In Wade Mode, Tesla says the Cybertruck can fjord water up to 32 inches deep or about to the tops of the stock tires. When in Wade Mode, the large sealed battery pack is pressurized internally to further prevent water intrusion. However, Wade Mode is only available for 30 minutes at a time for safety, according to Tesla.
In the Tesla-produced video below, the new drive modes are put to the test in Moab and elsewhere, including a crawl up the formidable Hell’s Gate passage on the slickrock. In the video, the Cybertruck is able to navigate the feature successfully, although the editing suggests it is not shown in real time, of course.
Other clips show the Cybertruck splashing through deep water crossings, throwing sand while navigating a berm, and slowly climbing a steep grade autonomously while the driver relaxes with his feet out the window of the trapezoidal EV.
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Another mode, Trail Assist, automatically maintains speed as set by the driver, with numerous options to control and change settings as needed. The system disengages above 30 mph. Drivers can also manipulate locking differentials in the front and back of the electric powertrain.
The video is an impressive display of new capabilities for the unusual truck, which has come in for criticism for a lack of off-road ability up until now. Real-world usage and more challenges will be required to see if the Cybertruck can be a core overlanding choice.
The Tesla Cybertruck starts at $61,000 and tops out at about $120,000 for the “Cyberbeast” version.
