In a bid to conquer North America’s fiercely competitive pickup truck segment, Tesla is leaving no stone unturned in testing its upcoming Cybertruck in various conditions and terrains. The Cybertruck aims to be a versatile and capable offering, capable of going head-to-head with rivals in terms of practicality, efficiency, and performance, whether on the road or off the beaten track.
Recent sightings of Tesla Cybertruck release candidate (RC) vehicles in Northern California’s Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area, near San Jose, offer a glimpse into the electric truck’s off-road capabilities. A YouTube enthusiast known as MuddyRuttzz, despite identifying as a “Jeep guy and diesel guy,” was impressed by the sight of the Cybertrucks in action.
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In the video captured on site, both Cybertruck prototypes were observed with their air suspension seemingly set to the highest setting, showcasing an impressive ride height and favorable approach and departure angles for a vehicle of this size. While the video does not depict it, Tesla engineers reportedly demonstrated the Cybertruck’s air suspension, highlighting the significant adjustment range between its lowest and highest settings. These vehicles were equipped with 20-inch wheels and all-terrain tires, underscoring their off-road readiness.
The footage also captures one of the electric trucks tackling a hill climb and navigating a road, providing a glimpse of the rear-wheel steering system in action. According to the video uploader, Tesla engineers on-site were amicable and forthcoming with information, confirming that the Cybertruck RCs had been driven from Texas to Hollister Hills for off-road testing.
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Most notably, the uploader claimed that Tesla employees indicated deliveries of the Cybertruck are slated to commence in October, slightly later than originally anticipated. Elon Musk had previously suggested late September for initial deliveries. Nonetheless, this minor delay pales in comparison to the four-year wait since the Cybertruck’s initial unveiling in November 2019.
Interestingly, the two Cybertrucks were accompanied by a Tesla Model X equipped with a satellite communications system. According to the uploader, this equipment was employed to transmit off-road data from the Cybertrucks back to Tesla’s headquarters, emphasizing the company’s thorough and data-driven approach to testing and development.