Elon Musk’s claims about the Cybertruck’s boating abilities have raised eyebrows, with many questioning the feasibility of turning an electric pickup truck into a functioning boat. Despite the skepticism, Musk remains adamant that the Cybertruck will be able to traverse water with some modifications.
In a recent video featuring the Cybertruck, Tesla’s engineering boss Lars Moravy mentioned that the electric truck “almost floats,” prompting Musk to announce plans for a “mod package” that would enable the Cybertruck to navigate at least 100 meters of water. The key modification would involve upgrading the cabin door seals to enhance waterproofing.
This idea of a Cybertruck boat mode has sparked both curiosity and concern among enthusiasts. Musk previously stated that the Cybertruck would be waterproof enough to serve briefly as a boat and even cross rivers, lakes, and seas under certain conditions. However, the prospect of driving a 6,700-pound pickup truck on water without specialized steering and propulsion systems raises serious safety and practicality issues.
One major challenge would be controlling the Cybertruck’s movement on water, especially in rough conditions. Without a dedicated propeller and hydrodynamic design, navigating the vehicle would be risky and potentially hazardous. Additionally, launching a Cybertruck into water from a boat ramp presents logistical challenges, as most beach driving is prohibited in the U.S.
Moreover, the lack of concrete solutions from Musk regarding the Cybertruck’s seaworthiness raises doubts about the viability of this concept. The idea of a Cybertruck functioning as a boat raises concerns about potential accidents, battery safety, and regulatory compliance.
As discussions around the Cybertruck’s boat mode continue, it remains to be seen whether Tesla will address the technical and safety implications of such a feature. In the meantime, the idea of a Cyberboat raises more questions than answers, inviting speculation and debate among automotive enthusiasts and industry observers.