A Tesla Cybertruck owner’s attempt to test Elon Musk’s claims about the vehicle’s amphibious capabilities ended in disaster when the truck became submerged and stranded in a river.
Electric vehicle news outlet Electrek reported that the incident occurred in Truckee, California. The Cybertruck owner activated Tesla’s Wade Mode before entering the water to cross the river. However, the vehicle quickly became immobilized after sinking into the water.
This mishap follows CEO Musk’s bold assertions last year about the Cybertruck’s waterproofing, claiming that the vehicle could traverse rivers Like a Boat and even cross the 360-meter channel between SpaceX’s Starbase in Texas and South Padre Island.
In response to Musk’s claims, Tesla incorporated a wading mode into the Cybertruck that elevates the vehicle and temporarily seals the battery pack to withstand water pressure. However, Tesla’s warranty explicitly excludes coverage for using this mode, underscoring the risks involved.
Industry experts caution against taking Musk’s statements at face value. They strongly recommend seeking professional guidance before attempting any off-road or water-fording maneuvers, emphasizing that safety should always be the top priority.
