Tesla is planning to introduce two new accessories for the Cybertruck before the end of the year – battery armor and rock sliders, adding another layer of durability to the electric pickup truck.
This announcement of the two upcoming options came after video showing a Cybertruck crashing through a plastic fence was posted to X. The video was actually originally released back in June, but what wasn’t shown until this week was the damage the Cybertruck sustained to its underbody, leading to Tesla critics mocking the vehicle’s durability.
🤦♂️ Social media 'influencers' planned to showcase a Cybertruck's prowess by having it demolish various objects.
— PiQ (@PiQSuite) September 8, 2024
However, the tables turned when the truck itself was defeated on its very first challenge: taking on a fence. pic.twitter.com/YNRHaPIWDT
However, everything was not as it seemed as Tesla Cybertruck lead engineer, Wes Morrill, responded to the newly released video, clarifying that the damage occurred because the owner had removed the stock front bumper and aluminum skid plate, leaving critical parts exposed.
To further protect the Cybertruck, Morrill added that battery armor and rock sliders will launch as a retrofit option later this year. Morrill also advised Cybertruck owners against removing the stock bumper and aluminum skid plate, especially if they plan to subject their vehicles to such stunts.
Battery armor and Rock sliders will be available as a retrofit option end of this year. Also if you plan to drive into fences probably best not to remove the front bumper and aluminum skid plate that come stock.
— Wes (@wmorrill3) September 9, 2024
Battery armor and rock sliders are designed to shield the Cybertruck’s undercarriage during off-road adventures. The battery armor protects the vehicle’s large battery pack from potential damage caused by debris, rocks, and other obstacles encountered in rugged terrains.
Rock sliders are robust sidebars that guard the vehicle’s sides and undercarriage from impacts with rocks and other hazards, making the vehicle better equipped for tackling off-road challenges.
While the Cybertruck has received a lot of praise since its unveiling, it has probably received even more criticism about its off-road capabilities. The introduction of battery armor and rock sliders as retrofit options will likely appease those who have criticized the vehicle’s durability and give Cybertruck owners peace of mind when taking their truck off-road.
