TESLA CYBERTRUCK IS FINALLY GETTING TOUGHER FOR OFF-ROAD ADVENTURES
The Tesla Cybertruck, a vehicle that has captured imaginations with its futuristic design and promises of rugged capability, is about to get even tougher. The electric pickup truck from Tesla is set to receive upgrades that will make it even more suitable for tackling rough terrain, addressing plenty of concerns about its off-road readiness that have been voiced since its initial unveiling.
Underbody Protection
Unlike its rival, the Rivian R1T, the Cybertruck currently has no option for underbody protection. This means that the battery pack is vulnerable to damage when navigating rocky trails and challenging off-road environments. That’s about to change. Wes Morrill, the lead engineer for the Cybertruck, has confirmed on X (formerly Twitter) that the EV will soon be offered with “armor” for the battery pack and rock sliders.
Pickup truck owners are known for their love of accessorizing their vehicles, especially those who plan to venture off the beaten path. Many automakers cater to this enthusiasm by offering extensive catalogs of optional parts. Tesla is no exception, and the Cybertruck already boasts an array of accessories, including a truck-mounted tent, a tailgate ramp, crossbars, and even a pair of jump seats that attach to the tailgate.
Anticipating the Price Tag
While Morrill didn’t provide any more details for the battery armor and rock sliders, it’s safe to assume these additions won’t come cheap. Rivian’s off-road package for the R1T, which includes a reinforced underbody shield, 20-inch all-terrain wheels, and a full-size spare, together with a built-in air compressor, carries a hefty price tag of $3,950. Tesla’s offering is likely to be in a similar ballpark.
Perhaps the most anticipated upgrade for the Cybertruck is the long-awaited range-extender battery. This additional battery pack, which occupies roughly one-third of the truck’s bed once installed, is expected to significantly boost the range of the standard dual-motor model from 318 miles to an impressive 470 miles. The CyberBeast’s range could also see a substantial increase, from 301 miles to 440 miles. While specific details about this pack remain scarce, it’s believed to offer around 47 kWh of usable storage and will set buyers back around $16,000.
Retrofitting for Existing Owners
Tesla has also announced that it plans to offer the battery armor and rock sliders as a retrofit option for existing Cybertruck owners later this year. This is welcome news for those who have already taken delivery of the vehicle and would like to enhance their Cybertruck’s off-road capabilities.
While the Cybertruck is marketed as a rugged, off-road-capable vehicle, it has faced criticism for lacking features crucial for tackling challenging terrain. The addition of battery armor and rock sliders is a significant step toward addressing these concerns and making the Cybertruck a more legitimate off-roader.
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Influencer Antics and Lessons Learned
The announcement of these upgrades comes in the wake of a viral video featuring a Cybertruck owner engaging in some questionable off-road antics. The video, which showed the modified Cybertruck mowing down a fence, raised concerns about the vehicle’s durability and the potential for misuse. Morrill commented on the video, noting that the owner had removed the front bumper and aluminum skid plate, likely contributing to the damage.
Thankfully, the Cybertruck is evolving, and the upcoming upgrades are proof that Tesla believes in continuous improvement. While the Cybertruck may have initially faced quite a bit of skepticism regarding its off-road skills, Tesla is clearly listening to feedback and taking steps to address those concerns. Current and future owners can relax a little – the future of Cybertruck off-roading looks brighter than ever.
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