A Cybertruck driver in Texas has been arrested after he allegedly drove his vehicle into a lake using Tesla's 'Wade Mode' feature, according to police. The incident occurred on Monday at Grapevine Lake, where the distinctive electric truck, which costs upwards of $80,000, was found submerged.
Details of the Incident
The driver, identified by multiple news outlets as Jimmy Jack McDaniel, told authorities that he 'intentionally drove into the lake to use the Cybertruck's 'Wade Mode' feature,' the Grapevine Police Department stated in a Facebook post. 'Wade Mode' is designed to allow Cybertrucks to traverse shallow bodies of water. However, the vehicle 'became disabled and took on water,' prompting the driver and his passengers to abandon the car.
No injuries were reported. The local fire department assisted in retrieving the Cybertruck from the lake, and the driver was arrested. Video from NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth showed a tow truck pulling the vehicle out of the water.
Charges and Legal Consequences
The driver faces charges of Operation of Vehicle in Closed Section of Park/Lake and numerous water safety equipment violations. McDaniel reportedly told NBC 5 that he had previously driven the Cybertruck in water multiple times, including in the Atlantic Ocean, without issues. Grapevine police reminded the public that 'although a vehicle may be physically capable of entering shallow freshwater areas, doing so can create legal and safety concerns under Texas law.'
Tesla's Warnings
Tesla warns that it is the driver's responsibility to assess water depth before entering. The company advises: 'Take care to drive slowly and safely. If the water is too deep, return to more shallow water or dry land.' Additionally, Tesla notes that damage caused to Cybertrucks in water is not covered by its warranty. The Independent has reached out to Tesla and Grapevine police for further comment.
