The Tesla Cybertruck, an all-electric pickup designed for heavy-duty work, underwent an extreme towing test in icy conditions that pushed its capabilities to the limit. YouTube’s JerryRigEverything host, Zack Nelson, conducted the cold weather towing torture test to gauge how the Cybertruck, which sports dual-motor all-wheel drive and boasts a rated EPA range of 340 miles, performs under challenging scenarios.
Equipped to handle sizable payloads, the Cybertruck was subjected to one of the toughest tests by towing a DIY electric Humvee, weighing around 11,000 lbs—the vehicle’s maximum towing capacity—under freezing temperatures. Throughout the test, the Cybertruck was operating at what could be considered a below-freezing point, recorded at 32°F (0°C), which made the test an ultimate trial by ice and weight.
Despite the severe conditions, the Cybertruck managed a 103-mile distance while towing the hefty load. Some straightforward calculations suggest a significant range reduction of 69.7% as a result of the grueling test. Electric vehicles generally experience range loss in cold weather—typically around 24% for Tesla models—but the Cybertruck’s range loss was primarily affected by the heavy towing demand.
Considering factors such as weather, it can be surmised that the Cybertruck might perform better in milder conditions, potentially covering about 130 miles while fully loaded. Previous tests of the Tesla Cybertruck achieved a 160-mile range when towing approximately 5,000 lbs, portraying its substantial hauling capabilities.
During the test, Nelson noted positive feedback about the Cybertruck’s handling, especially its steer-by-wire system that managed the load commendably even when stationary. However, there were some noteworthy quirks in the Cybertruck’s software, which appears to still be in a beta state given a few unusual behaviors it displayed.
One aspect where the Cybertruck’s technology seemed less refined was in its approach to calculating range while towing. Compared to competitors like the Ford F-150 Lightning, which recalibrates its range estimates rapidly, the Cybertruck was slower to adjust. Moreover, Nelson encountered a curious software glitch—the infotainment system mistakenly identified the towed Humvee as another vehicle too close to the Cybertruck, despite being in towing mode.
For enthusiasts interested in the Tesla Cybertruck, a 1/24 scale die-cast metal toy car is available for purchase on Amazon. More information about the development of the Cybertruck can also be found in Walter Isaacson’s biography of Elon Musk.
This performance insight into Tesla’s innovative pickup truck offers a real-world look at how electric vehicles handle extreme conditions, confirming both the strengths and current limitations of the Cybertruck.
Please note, Julian van der Merwe, a Magazine & Specialist News Writer with an extensive portfolio of 545 articles since 2022, reported on this event. His passion for technology and design is reflected in his writings, which aim to analyze and convey the implications and trends in the tech industry.
