A Texas man found himself in legal trouble after making a questionable decision to test his Tesla Cybertruck’s “Wade Mode” feature by driving the vehicle directly into Grapevine Lake. The ill-fated experiment required emergency responders to launch a water rescue operation to save the driver from his submerged vehicle. Local police arrested the man and filed charges in connection with the incident, which put both the driver and first responders at risk.
Wade Mode is a legitimate feature on Tesla’s Cybertruck designed to allow the vehicle to traverse shallow water by raising its suspension and sealing certain systems. However, the feature is intended for controlled situations in appropriate environments—not for spontaneous testing in public lakes. The driver’s decision to use a body of water as his personal testing ground crossed the line from curiosity into recklessness and endangerment.
The incident highlights the importance of responsible vehicle operation, even with advanced technology features. While the Cybertruck’s capabilities are impressive, real-world testing should be conducted responsibly and in designated areas with proper precautions. The arrest serves as a reminder that novelty features don’t justify unsafe behavior on public property or bodies of water.
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