In a series of tweets, Elon Musk on 29 September suggested that the Tesla Cybertruck, the US carmaker’s first electric pickup, will be able to travel short distances on water. This would make it the first amphibious electric production car.
According to Elon Musk, “Cybertruck will be waterproof enough to serve briefly as a boat, so it can cross rivers, lakes & even seas that aren’t too choppy. Needs [to] be able to get from Starbase [the SpaceX rocket launch base] to South Padre Island, which requires crossing the channel.”
Cybertruck will be waterproof enough to serve briefly as a boat, so it can cross rivers, lakes & even seas that aren’t too choppy
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) September 29, 2022
Everything to know about Tesla’s Cybertruck
The Cybertruck was unveiled in 2019, but production is not expected to begin until 2023. There is a lot of anticipation surrounding the vehicle because it is out of the ordinary in almost every way. In addition to its performance, promising acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 3 seconds — which is exceptional for a pickup truck — it stands out for its ultra-futuristic look, large storage capacity of more than 2,800 liters, and towing capacity of just over 6 tons. Moreover, it is designed to withstand hostile impacts, from stones or even bullets. Now, it seems the truck will be so tough that it will be able to take to the water, according to Elon Musk.
Cybertruck exterior
According to the Tesla website, “Cybertruck is built with an exterior shell made for ultimate durability and passenger protection. Starting with a nearly impenetrable exoskeleton, every component is designed for superior strength and endurance, from Ultra-Hard 30X Cold-Rolled stainless-steel structural skin to Tesla armor glass.”
The website further states, “If there was something better, we’d use it. Help eliminate dents, damage and long-term corrosion with a smooth monochrome exoskeleton that puts the shell on the outside of the car and provides you and your passengers maximum protection.”
Tesla Armor Glass
“Ultra-strong glass and polymer-layered composite can absorb and redirect impact force for improved performance and damage tolerance.”
Photos: Cybertruck
Earlier this year, an American entrepreneur had the idea of making the Cybertruck into a floating vehicle. This involves using a surprising kit to transform the pickup into a catamaran, powered by the vehicle’s battery.
This story is published with inputs from AFP Relaxnews.
[All image courtesy Tesla]
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