Texas man intentionally drove Cybertruck into lake to use vehicle's 'wade mode,' police say
ABC7 Los Angeles • • business
Key Points:
- A Tesla Cybertruck was intentionally driven into Grapevine Lake in Texas by the driver, Jimmy Jack McDaniel, who wanted to test the vehicle's "Wade Mode" feature, according to police.
- The Cybertruck became disabled and took on water, forcing McDaniel and a passenger to abandon it; the vehicle was later removed by the Grapevine Fire Department's Water Rescue Team.
- McDaniel was arrested and charged with operating a vehicle in a closed lake section, lacking valid boat registration, and other water safety violations.
- Tesla's owner's manual states that while the Cybertruck can enter shallow water up to 32 inches deep, drivers must assess water depth and conditions carefully, as damage from water exposure is not covered by warranty.
- Authorities caution that entering water bodies with vehicles can pose legal and safety risks, especially on soft or muddy surfaces or in strong currents.