Popular YouTube channel JerryRigEverything, hosted by Zack, conducted an in-depth test to determine the real-world towing capabilities of Tesla’s Cybertruck. The test, designed to push the boundaries of the electric vehicle, involved towing a massive 11,000-pound (5,000 kg) load in freezing weather conditions.
JerryRigEverything, known for his detailed technical reviews and experiments, embarked on this journey to answer three critical questions: the actual range of the Cybertruck while towing at its maximum capacity, the performance of its unique steer-by-wire system in towing and reversing, and the overall handling experience. He borrowed the Cybertruck from a brave owner to tow a Humvee.
During the experiment, Zack highlighted the Cybertruck’s impressive ability to turn both front and rear tires, offering a tighter turning radius than traditional trucks. He explained, “both the front and the rear [tires] can turn so you have a tighter turning radius.” This feature was particularly noticeable given the vehicle’s steer-by-wire system, where the front steering wheel is not mechanically connected to the front tires but controlled electrically.
The Cybertruck, a dual motor all-wheel drive model equipped with off-road tires, was estimated to have a range of 318 miles with a full battery. However, Zack aimed to see how this range would be affected under the strenuous conditions of towing a heavy load in cold weather. He noted, “I performed this very same test with my own Rivian R1T in the same freezing weather situation about a year ago and we got exactly 100 miles.”
Zack previously conducted similar tests with the Rivian R1T and the Ford F-150 Lightning, achieving ranges of 100 miles and 130 miles respectively under different conditions. These prior experiences set a benchmark for the Cybertruck’s performance.
As the journey unfolds, the Cybertruck demonstrates its powerful towing capacity, seamlessly handling the heavy load. Zack commented on the steer-by-wire system’s uniqueness: “It’s so strong that you can shake the truck just by moving the steering wheel.”
Throughout the test, Zack provides detailed insights into the Cybertruck’s performance, including its unique sound profile, different from other electric trucks. He observed, “This Cybertruck sounds far different than the other two. We had the electric whine, but there’s also a kind of a deep hum.”
Despite some UI limitations in towing mode and a lack of detailed power consumption data compared to competitors like Rivian and Ford, the Cybertruck impressively managed a 90-mile range while towing the 11,000-pound load, slightly less than its counterparts. Reflecting on the experience, Zack remarked, “Officially we got 90 miles of range while towing 11,000 lbs, not quite as good as Rivian and not quite as good as the Ford Lightning but still incredibly fun.”
The temperature was at 32F (0C) and this was the Cybertruck on 35-inch all-terrain tires. The range test went from 100% down to 2%. 90 miles (145 km) while towing a load heavier than the Cybertruck itself.
Check out the full video below:
