Tesla has released a significant over-the-air (OTA) software update for its Cybertruck, bringing improvements to energy efficiency and introducing several new features exclusive to owners of the electric pickup truck.
According to a report published by Electrek on September 25, 2024, the new update represents one of the most substantial software revisions for the Cybertruck since its launch, addressing several user requests and optimizing the vehicle's overall performance.
The Cybertruck with its updated software interface showing new features
Enhanced Energy Efficiency
One of the most significant improvements in this update focuses on energy management and efficiency. According to Electrek, the new software optimizes the Cybertruck's powertrain to deliver approximately 5-7% better range under typical driving conditions.
The efficiency gains come from several refinements:
- Improved thermal management of the battery pack, reducing energy loss during both charging and discharging cycles
- Enhanced regenerative braking algorithms that recover more energy during deceleration
- Optimized power distribution between the motors in dual and tri-motor configurations
- Refined aerodynamics control that automatically adjusts the air suspension height based on speed to reduce drag
Electrek reports that these optimizations collectively contribute to extending the Cybertruck's range without any hardware modifications. For the top-tier Cyberbeast trim, this could translate to an additional 20-25 miles of range in real-world driving scenarios.
Range Improvements by Model
Previous Estimated Range:
- RWD: 250 miles
- AWD: 340 miles
- Cyberbeast: 320 miles
New Estimated Range:
- RWD: 262-267 miles
- AWD: 357-364 miles
- Cyberbeast: 336-342 miles
Note: Actual range improvements may vary based on driving conditions, temperature, and individual driving habits.
New Exclusive Features
Beyond the efficiency improvements, the update introduces several new features exclusive to Cybertruck owners:
- Enhanced Off-Road Mode: A more sophisticated off-road package with specific calibrations for different terrains (sand, mud, rock crawling) and an improved visualization of the vehicle's orientation on steep grades
- Gear Guard Improvements: The security system now offers enhanced camera coverage and more sensitive motion detection around the vehicle
- Power Export Optimization: Better management of the bi-directional charging capabilities, including scheduled power export and customizable power limits
- Towing Assistant: New features to help with trailer hookup, including guidance lines on the backup camera and automatic height adjustment of the air suspension
The enhanced off-road mode interface showing terrain selection options
According to Electrek, one of the most anticipated additions is a new "Overlanding Mode" that optimizes the vehicle for extended off-grid excursions. This mode includes power management features that balance between driving needs and powering external equipment, smart climate control that minimizes energy usage while camping, and integration with navigation to help plan routes with charging stations.
"This update represents Tesla's continued commitment to improving the Cybertruck experience through software. The efficiency gains are impressive considering they're achieved without any hardware changes, and the new off-road capabilities further distinguish the Cybertruck in the growing electric truck market."
— Fred Lambert, Electrek
User Interface Enhancements
The update also brings several improvements to the Cybertruck's user interface, making it more intuitive and functional:
- Customizable layout allowing owners to prioritize frequently used controls
- New visualization tools for energy usage and regeneration
- Enhanced trip planner with better off-grid routing options
- Improved integration with the power tonneau cover and tailgate
Electrek notes that the interface revisions have been designed specifically for Cybertruck users, with larger touch targets for easier use while off-roading and a more rugged aesthetic that matches the vehicle's exterior design.
Expanded Autopilot Functionality
The update also includes Cybertruck-specific refinements to Tesla's Autopilot and Full Self-Driving capabilities. According to the Electrek report, the system has been calibrated to account for the Cybertruck's unique dimensions and handling characteristics, offering:
- Improved trailer detection when towing
- Better navigation through tight spaces, accounting for the truck's width
- Enhanced visualization of surrounding vehicles, particularly for trucks and larger vehicles
- Specialized parking assistance optimized for the Cybertruck's size
Key points of the Cybertruck software update:
- 5-7% improvement in range and overall energy efficiency
- Enhanced off-road capabilities with terrain-specific modes
- New "Overlanding Mode" for extended off-grid excursions
- Improved Gear Guard security system
- Better power export management for vehicle-to-load functionality
- Customized Autopilot improvements for the Cybertruck's unique dimensions
Rollout Timeline
As with most Tesla software updates, the rollout is being conducted in phases. According to Electrek, the first Cybertruck owners began receiving update notifications on September 23, with the majority of the fleet expected to receive the update within the next two weeks.
The update is being delivered over-the-air and requires approximately 45 minutes to install, during which time the vehicle cannot be driven. Tesla recommends installing the update while the vehicle is parked at home and connected to a charger.
Owner Reception
Initial reception from Cybertruck owners has been overwhelmingly positive, according to social media posts cited by Electrek. Owners have particularly praised the range improvements and the new off-road capabilities, with several reporting that the vehicle feels more responsive and confident in challenging terrain.
"The most impressive aspect of this update is how comprehensive it is. Tesla hasn't just tweaked one or two features—they've enhanced nearly every aspect of the Cybertruck experience, from efficiency to off-road capability to user interface. It demonstrates how software can fundamentally transform a vehicle well after purchase."
— Electrek analysis
Conclusion
This substantial software update for the Cybertruck demonstrates Tesla's commitment to continuous improvement of its vehicles post-purchase. The efficiency enhancements and new features address key areas that early Cybertruck adopters have highlighted, while setting the stage for future capabilities.
As Electrek notes in its report, the update represents one of the most significant software revisions for the Cybertruck since its launch and reinforces Tesla's position as a leader in leveraging software to extend and enhance vehicle capabilities over time.
