Tesla Cybertruck's Off-Road Woes: Engineers Develop "Stuck Detection" Solution
Tesla Cybertruck Struggles Off-Road, Engineers Consider “Stuck Detection” Feature
In a surprising turn of events, Tesla’s much-hyped Cybertruck has been facing challenges in off-road conditions, prompting engineers to consider implementing a new “stuck detection” feature. This development comes in the wake of several viral videos showing the electric vehicle struggling in various terrains.
On May 2, a Cybertruck had to be rescued from sand on Nantucket Island, contradicting CEO Elon Musk’s earlier claims of the vehicle being “apocalypse-proof” and ideal for off-road use. Similar incidents have been reported, with videos circulating online of the truck having difficulty climbing hills and navigating through snow.
Wes Morrill, lead engineer on the Cybertruck project, recently addressed these concerns on social media platform X. He revealed that Tesla is exploring the possibility of introducing a “stuck detection” feature, which would offer drivers guidance on freeing their vehicles when caught in challenging off-road situations.
The proposed feature could suggest actions such as deflating tires, adjusting the truck’s ride height, or engaging specific driving modes like “sand mode.” Morrill emphasized that off-road driving skills can be developed over time, suggesting that the feature could serve as a learning tool for less experienced drivers.
This announcement came in response to a video shared by Tucker Carlson, showing a Cybertruck mired in mud in rural Maine. The incident is one of several that have emerged since the vehicle’s release in 2023, challenging Musk’s bold claims about its capabilities.
Musk had previously touted the Cybertruck as the ultimate off-road vehicle, even suggesting that a pressurized version could become the “official truck of Mars.” However, these recent incidents have cast doubt on these assertions.
The tow operator who assisted the stranded Cybertruck on Nantucket beach noted that the driver had neglected to reduce tire pressure, a common practice for driving on sand. This oversight highlights the potential benefits of the proposed “stuck detection” feature.
As of now, Tesla has not officially commented on these incidents or the potential new feature. The company did not respond to a request for comment from Business Insider, which was sent outside normal working hours.
These developments underscore the challenges faced by innovative vehicle designs in real-world conditions and highlight the importance of continuous improvement in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market.
