Tesla’s Cybertruck has once again stirred controversy, this time over concerns raised by an owner in a colder climate regarding the headlights becoming obscured by snow. The owner expressed frustration on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), highlighting the significant impairment to nighttime visibility on the road.
The complaint was voiced by @teslainventory, who tweeted, “Wondering why I didn’t have any lights when I turned onto my street without streetlights…” alongside a photo showing the front of the truck covered in snow, obscuring the headlights.
I was wondering why I didn't have any lights when I turned onto my street without streetlights… I wonder if Tesla can heat the headlights? pic.twitter.com/sTwzWQxqyX
— Erik in DÆrik (@teslainventory) March 14, 2024
Living in frigid climates, many are familiar with vehicles collecting snow on their headlights while parked, emphasizing the importance of using a brush to clear them. However, the Cybertruck’s flat front fascia seems to make it more susceptible to collecting snow while in motion, particularly due to the location of its headlights.
The truck’s daytime running lights (DRLs) are positioned just under the hood, often mistaken for headlights, which are actually located farther down, just above the bumper. @teslainventory’s photo highlighted that the headlights are nestled in a slot between the bumper and the bodywork, appearing to collect snow and creating a thicker layer in front of the lights.
While this design choice may offer benefits such as improved aerodynamics and safety, concerns have been raised regarding its impact on visibility in snowy conditions. Notably, the Cybertruck is not the only electric truck facing this issue, as owners of other electric trucks, such as Rivian, have also reported similar problems with snow and ice accumulation on headlights.
Tesla has yet to respond to the specific concerns raised by @teslainventory, but suggestions for a possible solution, such as incorporating a heating element, have been proposed. It remains to be seen how Tesla will address this issue while balancing considerations for aesthetics and aerodynamics.