Taking the Tesla Cybertruck Off-Road to Drive Itself – EV Truck Review

The Tesla Cybertruck—you’ve seen it, you’ve probably argued about it, and now you’re wondering, can it really handle the rough and tumble of off-road driving? With its sharp angles, stainless steel exoskeleton, and electric drivetrain, it looks more like a Mars rover than a backwoods trail conqueror. But looks can be deceiving, and the Cybertruck just might surprise you. Let’s break down how this cyberpunk machine fares when it’s put to the test in the wild.

Cybertruck Quick Specs:

• Drivetrain: Tri-Motor All-Wheel Drive (on high-end models)
• Ground Clearance: Up to 16 inches (adjustable via air suspension)
• Approach/Departure Angles: 35°/28°
• Battery Range: Estimated 500+ miles (on the Tri-Motor variant)
• Payload Capacity: 3,500 pounds
• Towing Capacity: 14,000 pounds
• Self-Driving Capability: Full-Self Driving (FSD) optional (and still a work in progress)

The Good: Electric Power Meets Off-Road Capability

One of the first things to note about the Cybertruck is its electric torque. Unlike traditional internal combustion engines that need to rev up to deliver power, the Cybertruck’s motors provide instant torque. This translates to impressive rock-crawling ability and the kind of control that can make seasoned off-roaders nod in approval.

Adjustable Air Suspension is another major plus. With the ability to raise the truck for maximum ground clearance, the Cybertruck can handle uneven terrain, large obstacles, and water crossings (though maybe skip anything too deep unless you’re keen on testing Tesla’s warranty policies). On smoother trails, the suspension lowers for better aerodynamics, a neat trick for those who like versatility.

Let’s not forget the exoskeleton. The stainless-steel body is virtually dent-proof and scratch-resistant, which means you’re less likely to cry over a rogue tree branch. Sure, it’ll leave fingerprints everywhere (or might even cut them off while its closing the frunk), but what’s a little smudging compared to invincibility?

Challenges in the Great Outdoors

While the Cybertruck has plenty of off-road perks, it’s not without its quirks. For starters, the size. This is not a compact trail rig. At nearly 20 feet long, it’s wider than most standard trucks, which could make navigating tight trails more of a chore than a thrill.

Then there’s the weight. Electric vehicles are heavy because of their batteries, and the Cybertruck is no exception. While the low center of gravity helps with stability, you’ll feel every bit of its heft when trying to climb out of soft sand or mud. (Pro tip: Invest in some good recovery gear.)

Finally, let’s talk about Tesla’s much-touted Full-Self Driving feature. While the idea of your truck piloting itself through the wilderness sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie, FSD is far from perfect. Sure, it can follow a dirt road, but don’t expect it to identify that massive boulder in the middle of the trail or understand that “forward” sometimes involves reversing.

Competitors: Who’s Gunning for the Cybertruck?

Tesla’s Cybertruck isn’t entering an empty arena. Here are a few rivals worth mentioning:

1. Rivian R1T

• Quick Take: Rivian’s electric pickup offers serious off-road chops, including a Quad-Motor AWD system and innovative features like a tank turn.
• Why It’s a Contender: Smaller and more maneuverable than the Cybertruck, the R1T is designed with adventure in mind. But it’s pricier, and its towing capacity falls short of Tesla’s.

2. Ford F-150 Lightning

• Quick Take: The electric version of America’s favorite truck combines familiarity with futuristic features.
• Why It’s a Contender: While not as off-road-focused as the Cybertruck, the Lightning is a solid choice for those who want an EV that feels like a “traditional” truck.

3. Hummer EV Pickup

• Quick Take: GM’s electric Hummer brings the wow factor with insane off-road features like Crab Walk and up to 1,000 horsepower.
• Why It’s a Contender: The Hummer EV is packed with off-road tech, but it’s also incredibly heavy and even more expensive than the Cybertruck.

4. Chevrolet Silverado EV

• Quick Take: The Silverado EV blends classic truck utility with electric efficiency.
• Why It’s a Contender: With GM’s Ultium platform, it’s a capable EV truck, though less flashy than the Cybertruck.

Driving the Future: Off-Roading with a Dash of AI

One of the coolest features of the Cybertruck is its semi-autonomous capability. Picture this: You’re crawling through a tricky trail section, and instead of sweating over every maneuver, you let the truck take over. In theory, it’s like having a robotic co-pilot who doesn’t get tired or cranky.

In reality, however, Tesla’s autopilot system isn’t quite there yet for hardcore off-roading. It can follow a path but struggles with nuanced terrain. That said, it’s a glimpse of what the future could hold and honestly, it’s fun to imagine your truck handling trail duty while you relax with a snack in the driver’s seat.

Is the Cybertruck Ready for the Trails?

The Tesla Cybertruck is a bold, futuristic take on the pickup truck, and it’s surprisingly capable off-road. Its electric torque, adjustable suspension, and durable design make it a solid contender for outdoor adventures. However, its size and weight can be limiting factors, and its self-driving features aren’t quite trail-ready yet.

Still, the Cybertruck’s unique blend of innovation and performance makes it a fascinating option for off-road enthusiasts who want to stand out. Whether you’re navigating trails or just turning heads at the campsite, it’s hard to deny the Tesla Cybertruck’s wow factor.

So, would you take the Tesla Cybertruck off-road, or are you more inclined to stick with a traditional off-road rig? And how do you feel about the idea of your truck driving itself on the trail? Let us know your thoughts and join the conversation below!