Tesla Cybertruck’s Wade Mode Protects Battery To Drive In Water

Tesla's Cybertruck now features a new Wade Mode, designed to pressurise the battery pack, enabling it to traverse water. Elon Musk, Tesla's CEO, previously claimed that Tesla vehicles could temporarily float and even function as boats. However, Tesla's warranty advises against driving vehicles in water, casting doubt on these claims.

At the Cybertruck's 2019 launch, Musk stated, "Cybertruck will be waterproof enough to serve briefly as a boat, so it can cross rivers, lakes, and even seas that aren’t too choppy." He envisioned the Cybertruck crossing the 1,100-foot stretch between SpaceX's staircase and South Padre Island in Texas.

Hidden within the off-road mode, the Wade Mode allows the Cybertruck to navigate water. The mode's description indicates that it raises the vehicle's ride height and pressurises the battery for water traversal. While Tesla's battery packs are generally sealed and can resist water for a short duration, the Wade Mode suggests a more robust, long-term solution for water exclusion. Details about the impact on the warranty remain undisclosed.