Additional Coverage:
- Texas man arrested after allegedly driving Tesla Cybertruck into lake to test ‘Wade Mode’: police (foxnews.com)
A Texas man was taken into custody after deliberately driving his Tesla Cybertruck into Grapevine Lake to test the vehicle’s “Wade Mode” feature, only to have the truck become disabled and begin taking on water.
Authorities responded Monday to Katie’s Woods Park Boat Ramp following reports of a partially submerged Cybertruck near the shore, according to the Grapevine Police Department.
The driver admitted to officers that he intentionally drove the electric pickup into the lake to engage the Cybertruck’s “Wade Mode,” a function Tesla describes as temporarily raising the vehicle’s ride height and pressurizing the battery system to better handle shallow water and rough terrain.
However, the test quickly went awry when the truck lost functionality while in the water. Fortunately, the driver and passengers exited the vehicle safely.
The Grapevine Fire Department Water Rescue Team assisted in removing the Cybertruck from the lake. No injuries were reported.
Photos released by authorities showed the stainless steel pickup partially submerged at the boat ramp as emergency crews worked on its recovery.
The driver, whose identity has not been disclosed, was arrested at the scene. Charges include operating a vehicle in a closed section of a park or lake, along with multiple violations related to water safety equipment, according to police.
In a statement on social media, the Grapevine Police Department reminded the public that although some vehicles may be physically capable of entering shallow freshwater areas, doing so can raise legal and safety issues under Texas law.
Grapevine Lake, located in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, is a well-known spot for boating and fishing activities.
Since its late 2023 release, Tesla has heavily promoted the Cybertruck’s rugged off-road features. The recent incident follows several online videos from Cybertruck owners testing the vehicle’s performance in challenging conditions such as mud, sand, and water crossings.
Tesla emphasizes that “Wade Mode” is intended for shallow water crossings only and advises drivers to avoid water depths that exceed the truck’s capabilities.