In an otherworldly desert landscape, miles from Los Angeles, the Tesla Cybertruck appears almost extraterrestrial, a stark contrast to its surroundings. This cutting-edge vehicle, evoking images of a future conceived by Skynet, stands ready for a rigorous test of its off-road capabilities. Alongside it is the Rivian R1T, another advanced electric pickup, marking a significant evolution in automotive technology.
Top Gear has the exclusive opportunity to put the Cybertruck through its paces, utilizing all its off-road settings and innovative features like adjustable air suspension and a variety of modes tailored for rugged terrain. Accompanying it in this desert trial are two versions of the Cybertruck: a 845 horsepower tri-motor setup equipped for high-speed pursuits and a 600 horsepower dual-motor version optimized for challenging terrains.
In contrast, the Rivian R1T emerges as a lifestyle-oriented adventure vehicle, boasting a quad motor system and a design that blends robust capability with a dash of charm. Priced competitively, the Rivian and Tesla models are set to compete in a series of dynamic challenges across the expansive 96,000-acre Johnson Valley Off-Highway Vehicle area.
The showdown begins with a unique off-road drag race on the hard, cracked terrain of Soggy Dry Lake. Despite the added weight from mounted tents, both vehicles showcase their impressive power, with Tesla’s Cybertruck pulling ahead due to its slight power advantage and sophisticated traction control.
Following the race, the Cybertruck demonstrates its prowess in drifting, leveraging a sophisticated torque split system that allows precise control over power distribution between the axles. This feature enables it to perform dynamic slides and maneuvers across the desert landscape, pushing the boundaries of what’s expected from a vehicle of its size.
As night falls, the teams set up camp using the innovative tents integrated into their vehicles. The Cybertruck’s tent, a marvel of design developed with Heimplanet, offers a comfortable and secure shelter, easily deployed from beneath its tonneau cover. This setup not only protects against the elements but also provides a convenient, elevated sleeping platform.
The following day’s adventures lead the vehicles into the towering sand dunes and rugged rock trails of Johnson Valley. Here, the Cybertruck and Rivian are tested on their ability to handle steep inclines, deep sand, and treacherous rocky paths. Both vehicles impress with their climbing capabilities and advanced traction systems, though the Cybertruck’s visibility issues present challenges that are mitigated by its effective ascent control technology.
The final trial involves high-speed runs over the notorious ‘whoops’—severe undulations that test the suspension and durability of any off-road vehicle. Both the Cybertruck and Rivian tackle this grueling challenge with vigor, each showcasing their unique strengths and resilience under extreme conditions.
Concluding the expedition, the teams reflect on the capabilities and potential of these groundbreaking electric trucks. While the Cybertruck excels with its off-road technology and innovative features, it remains a polarizing choice due to its unconventional design and interface. Conversely, the Rivian proves to be a more approachable and traditionally appealing vehicle, offering a balance of performance and comfort that makes it a compelling alternative.
This adventure not only tests the limits of electric vehicle technology in one of the harshest environments but also marks a significant moment in automotive history, demonstrating that electric pickups can indeed conquer the great outdoors, albeit with some limitations in extreme scenarios. Both vehicles emerge from the trials as formidable contenders in the new era of adventure-oriented electric mobility, each with its own distinct appeal and capabilities.