Texas Man Arrested After Cybertruck Test in Lake Goes Wrong

A Texas man faced arrest following a failed test of his Tesla Cybertruck’s “Wade Mode” feature at Grapevine Lake. The vehicle ended up disabled and started filling with water, according to local police.

Incident Details

Police were called to Katie’s Woods Park Boat Ramp after reports indicated a Cybertruck was partially submerged near the shore. The driver reportedly told officers he had driven the vehicle into the lake on purpose to experiment with the “Wade Mode.” This Tesla feature is meant to temporarily elevate the truck’s ride height and pressurize its battery to aid in navigating shallow water and difficult terrain.

However, the test did not go as planned, and the Cybertruck quickly became inoperative. The Grapevine Fire Department Water Rescue Team helped in recovering the vehicle from the lake. Fortunately, both driver and passengers evacuated safely before emergency services arrived, with no injuries reported.

Legal and Safety Concerns

The driver’s name has not been disclosed. He was arrested on multiple charges, including operating a vehicle in a closed area and violating several water safety equipment regulations. Grapevine police stressed the legal and safety implications of driving in shallow freshwater areas, even if a vehicle might seem capable.

Grapevine Lake, a popular site for boating and fishing in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, witnessed the incident. Tesla introduced “Wade Mode” for shallow water crossings, which they market as part of the Cybertruck’s robust off-road features.

Ongoing Interest in Cybertruck Performance

Since its debut in late 2023, the Tesla Cybertruck has been noted for its rugged off-road capabilities. Some users have shared online videos testing these features. Tesla advises caution, urging drivers to heed conditions beyond the vehicle’s limits. The Grapevine Police Department reiterated this message, emphasizing adherence to local laws and safety guidelines.