A Tesla Cybertruck prototype, found abandoned on the side of the road, has provided a unique glimpse into the vehicle’s suspension system. The discovery was made by a passerby named Wayne, who cleverly used a camera to capture images of the electric pickup’s undercarriage.
These photos, shared by Electrek, offer the most detailed view of the Cybertruck’s suspension to date.
Bastien Theron, CEO of Theron, a company specializing in electric ATVs, provided some insights into the images. Before venturing into electric ATVs, Theron had a background in suspension engineering. He observed that Tesla has incorporated an anti-roll bar in the design, though it lacks the hydraulic system seen in Rivian’s vehicles. Theron commented on the potential challenges Tesla might face in managing travel differences.
Further observations from the images revealed a rear lower A-arm made of two welded steel pieces, contrasting with the casting at the front. This could be a prototype method to assess form and function. The prototype, wrapped and appearing relatively recent, also had parts labeled for “New Zealand Testing.”
It remains uncertain whether this truck had been in New Zealand for cold weather testing or if it merely incorporated parts intended for such tests.
Theron’s analysis also highlighted an actuator designed to modify damping dynamically, suitable for load-bearing vehicles. However, he noted potential challenges in increasing the tire size at the front due to specific design elements. Theron concluded, “Overall, I’m surprised by the simplicity of the system. When there’s simplicity, there’s generally robustness too.”
Tesla has been relatively tight-lipped about the Cybertruck’s suspension details. Still, they have mentioned a robust adaptive air suspension system on their website, emphasizing its adaptability and self-leveling capabilities.
Company CEO Elon Musk later hinted on Twitter about enhancing the air suspension for improved off-roading, suggesting that the truck might be tested in the Baja 1000, a renowned off-road motorsport race in Mexico.
You can check out more pictures of the underside of the Cybertruck suspension over here at Electrek.
