Tesla Cybertruck upgraded with harder-core off-road tech

New features have been rolled out on the 2024 Tesla Cybertruck to ensure there’s less chance of the all-electric pick-up truck getting stuck when it ventures off the beaten track.

From now on, Tesla Cybertruck owners will be able to select one of two new off-road modes dubbed ‘Overland’ and ‘Baja’.

Overland mode has been created to pre-arm the Tesla truck’s all-wheel drive system for driving on rock, gravel, in deep snow or sandy conditions.

Baja mode is said to improve balance for fast low-grip driving, with the stability control set for minimum interventions and, as a result, allowing more sideways action.

With either mode selected the Cybertruck’s standard exterior cameras are active to help spot obstacles.

Another new function is Wade mode that can be selected using a single button, although the car-maker has not yet revealed how the setting helps the vehicle traverse deep water.

From now on, all dual-motor Cybertruck EVs come with a front and rear locking differential that can be enabled or disabled through the off-road mode interface.

In the flagship tri-motor CyberBeast, the Overland mode actively locks the front differential while a virtual rear locking differential can lock the rear diff automatically when the system detects a loss of traction.

Other new tech includes Trail Assist, which is a cruise control for off-roading that incorporates both hill descent and ascent – and can take control of the throttle in a sticky situation when the driver is struggling.

A Slippery Surface function, meanwhile, has been produced to maximise traction on snowy, icy or wet roads.

Finally, the adaptive suspension can now estimate payload more accurately, automatically adjusting the damping to improve ride and body control.

As well as all the new tech, Tesla has added a CyberTent mode that levels the Cybertruck on uneven ground, assisting set-up for those who have purchased the optional $US3000 ($A4600) roof-mounted CyberTent.

Right-hand drive production is not yet confirmed for the Cybertruck, but the radical electric dual-cab is currently on a roadshow tour around Australia and remains a feature on Tesla’s local website, so hopes are high that it will be made available Down Under.

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