Tesla undertook a rigorous real-world test of its Cybertruck by tackling one of the most challenging off-road terrains known to the automotive world – the Baja 1000 race course.
A new video shared on YouTube titled, “Road to Cybertruck,” wasn’t just a thrilling adventure but a crucial test in natural conditions. The team from Tesla highlighted the stark contrast between the predictable, controlled environment of the Proving Grounds and the unpredictable, often hazardous conditions of the Baja 1000. This race is notoriously known for being one of the most dangerous and challenging off-road races, making it an ideal testing ground for the Cybertruck.
The first day of the expedition was marked by a descent along a steep trail leading to the coast. The team encountered a terrain that was both loose and riddled with embedded rocks. However, the Cybertruck demonstrated impressive performance with its high clearance and superior traction control, which significantly boosted the team’s confidence. As they drove along the coast, they experienced a profound sense of isolation, with miles of coastline devoid of any human presence. This sense of solitude underscored the remote and challenging nature of their expedition.
The journey was not without its challenges. At one point, the team found themselves in a gridlock, a stark contrast to the off-road conditions they were testing in. They navigated through various terrains, ensuring the Cybertruck was ready for all kinds of off-road scenarios, including sandy tracks, rocky paths, and water crossings. One of the key aspects of the test was to assess the Cybertruck’s energy efficiency, especially on dirt roads. Despite higher energy consumption on such terrains, the team was impressed with the vehicle’s performance and planned their energy usage and charging accordingly.
Logistical challenges also played a significant role in this adventure. The team had to deal with transporting spare parts across the border and finding innovative ways to charge the Cybertruck in remote locations. Additionally, the journey was complicated by unexpected trail damage due to recent hurricanes. These unpredictable conditions forced the team to constantly adapt and overcome various obstacles.
Despite these challenges, the Cybertruck’s performance was remarkable from the two pre-production trucks, which were fitted with Starlink for internet. Its adaptive damping system was particularly impressive, providing a smooth ride even at high speeds and over intimidating bumps. The team also relied on Starlink for high-quality data transmission, a critical factor given the remote locations they traversed.
As the expedition concluded, the Tesla team was confident in the Cybertruck’s outstanding performance across a diverse range of challenging conditions. The test not only showcased the vehicle’s capabilities but also provided valuable insights for Tesla, helping to complete the design cycle of the Cybertruck.
Check out the full video below:
