Grapevine, Texas – A Tesla Cybertruck ended up partially submerged in Grapevine Lake after police said a driver intentionally drove the vehicle into the water to test the truck’s “Wade Mode” feature, an experiment that quickly failed.
According to the Grapevine Police Department, officers responded Monday evening to Katie’s Woods Park and found the Cybertruck disabled near the shoreline after taking on water. Police said driver Jimmy Jack McDaniel told officers he intentionally entered the lake to use the Tesla feature, which is designed to help the vehicle navigate shallow water crossings.
Instead, the Cybertruck became stranded and had to be removed by the Grapevine Fire Department’s Water Rescue Team. Both the driver and passenger abandoned the vehicle safely before emergency crews arrived.
McDaniel was arrested and remains jailed on multiple charges, including operating a vehicle in a closed section of the lake and violations related to water safety equipment and registration requirements.
Tesla’s online owner manual states that “Wade Mode” can assist drivers crossing shallow bodies of water such as creeks or rivers but warns drivers to carefully judge water depth and conditions beforehand. The company also notes water-related damage may not be covered under warranty. The Cybertruck’s listed maximum wading depth is about 32 inches.
The incident quickly spread online, adding to ongoing criticism and ridicule surrounding Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s controversial Cybertruck rollout and its real-world performance claims.
Sources:
Discover more from News Facts Network
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
