As it turns out, you can make a Tesla Cybertruck catch on fire and burn to the ground simply by towing it the wrong way. Nope, I’m not joking. It’s right there in the Cybertruck’s owner’s manual under “Instructions for Transporters.” For a truck that is meant to go anywhere and do anything, I feel like towing it the wrong way shouldn’t cause such a catastrophic result.
But, alas it does. Basically, you’ve got to flatbed a Cybertruck whenever it has an issue and is left undrivable. If you don’t, it won’t just break the car – like what can happen with some AWD vehicles – it can actually lead to some pretty serious overheating. That’s the best-case scenario. Here’s the worst, according to Tesla: “In rare cases extreme overheating may cause the surrounding components to ignite.” That’s not what you want out of your $120,000 truck of the future. It also points out that towing it the wrong way could void your warranty. Fantastic!
Do not transport Cybertruck using any method that is not specified by Tesla. Adhere to the instructions provided here and observe all warnings and cautions. Damage caused by improper transporting of your vehicle is not covered by the warranty.
Basically, the only way you can tow a Cybertruck to ensure it doesn’t explode is on a flatbed. Don’t worry, though, Tesla says it can face either direction on the truck bed itself.
To make towing even more of a risky pain in the ass for Cybertruck owners, the manual points out that if there’s a crash, both the high voltage and low voltage componentry in the Cybertruck could be “compromised.” Because of that, you’ve got to wear PPE until emergency crews can come and make sure the truck doesn’t electrocute you. Here’s what the manual says with a big “Warning” label above it:
Cybertruck is equipped with high voltage and low voltage components that may be compromised as a result of a collision (see Electric Vehicle Components). Before transporting Cybertruck, it is important to assume these components are energized. Always follow high voltage safety precautions (wearing personal protection equipment, etc.) until emergency response professionals have evaluated the vehicle and can accurately confirm that all high voltage systems are no longer energized. Failure to do so may result in serious injury.
Listen, I know the Cybertruck isn’t the only vehicle in the world that can only be towed on a flatbed because it could be damaged otherwise, and I know it’s not the only EV in the world with a complex electrical system. But, Elon Musk and Tesla marketed this thing as the strongest, most durable truck to ever exist, and it feels like every day that we’re just getting more and more proof that it’s far from it. In fact, the Cybertruck is turning out to be downright fragile.
