A Texas resident was apprehended after allegedly maneuvering his Tesla Cybertruck into Grapevine Lake to test its “Wade Mode” feature. Police reports state the vehicle became disabled as it started taking on water.
Authorities arrived at Katie’s Woods Park Boat Ramp on Monday in response to reports of a partially submerged Cybertruck. The driver reportedly informed officers of his intentional decision to drive the truck into the lake, hoping to utilize the “Wade Mode,” which temporarily elevates the vehicle’s ride height and pressurizes the battery system for traversing shallow waters and challenging terrains.
However, the experiment failed when the Cybertruck stalled in the water.
Photos shared by authorities depicted the stainless steel pickup submerged near the shoreline while emergency personnel worked on retrieving it. The Grapevine Fire Department Water Rescue Team helped extract the vehicle, and all passengers vacated safely.
Police noted that while there were no injuries, the driver faced charges for operating a vehicle in a restricted area of the park or lake and multiple violations concerning water safety equipment. His identity remains undisclosed.
The Grapevine Police Department reminded drivers through a Facebook post of the legal and safety issues involved in navigating shallow freshwater areas, irrespective of a vehicle’s capability.
Grapevine Lake attracts recreational activities like boating and fishing in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Tesla launched the Cybertruck in late 2023, promoting its off-road prowess. Nonetheless, some owners have tested its performance through mud, sand, and water obstacles.
While “Wade Mode” is fashioned for shallow water navigation, Tesla advises against conditions surpassing the truck’s limitations.
