Tesla Cybertruck's Beast Mode, BaseCamp, Lightbar, and Wheel Options Revealed

By Kevin Armstrong
A 3D model of the Cybertruck's interior
A 3D model of the Cybertruck's interior
olympusdev_

Anticipation for the Cybertruck has reached new heights with the latest iOS app update, discreetly unveiling some of the vehicle's most awaited features. The highlight is 'Beast Mode,' a feature Elon Musk had hinted at earlier. This mode is one of many new features discovered through the latest app update.

Beast Mode: Unleashing the Power

One of the most captivating discoveries within the app update is 'Beast Mode.' While the app update doesn't divulge many details, a visualization hints at its impressive capabilities. With a design reminiscent of the Plaid model's visualization, it's safe to assume that 'Beast Mode' will be exclusive to the tri-motor or Performance variant of the Cybertruck, promising exhilarating acceleration.

Musk confirmed Beast Mode during his previous appearance on the Joe Rogan Experience. Musk said the company aimed for a 0-to-60 mph time of less than 3 seconds. If this holds, the Cybertruck might outrun some of the industry's most coveted sports cars.

Wheels for Every Terrain

Tesla is set to offer three different wheels for the Cybertruck
Tesla is set to offer three different wheels for the Cybertruck
Tesla_app_iOS

The Cybertruck is set to cater to diverse preferences with its wheel options. The app update reveals at least three wheel choices. First, there is an 18-inch wheel equipped with standard all-season tires and smaller wheel covers. Next, a robust 20-inch wheel is adorned with all-terrain tires and larger wheel covers, which are commonly seen on test vehicles and showroom displays. The twist comes with the mention of "Premium" wheels, suggesting that the Performance variant might offer its unique set of wheels, yet to be unveiled.

BaseCamp: Adventure Awaits

A 3D model of a tent, called BaseCamp was found in the Tesla app
A 3D model of a tent, called BaseCamp was found in the Tesla app
olympusdev_

Among the standout features exposed by the app update is 'BaseCamp,' an accessory that promises to enhance the Cybertruck's versatility. 'BaseCamp' appears to be a tent that attaches to the Cybertruck's vault, with tantalizing hints that it will include a mattress, creating a comfortable and rugged camping experience. While pricing details remain elusive, this accessory will appeal to those seeking outdoor adventures with their Cybertruck.

Updated User Interface

A closer look at the Cybertruck's UI
A closer look at the Cybertruck's UI
olympusdev_

Tesla appears to have created a user interface specifically for the Cybertruck and its massive screen.

In an image included in the app update, we get a good view at the Cybertruck's new UI. Earlier today, we broke down all the features of the new Cybertruck UI, from its 3D terrain to the multiple app columns.

Optional Light Bar

Many Cybertruck enthusiasts had hoped for an integrated light bar at the top of the windshield. While it didn't make it to production, Tesla appears ready to offer it as an optional accessory. The app update shows the availability of this much-anticipated feature, which has been spotted on some test Cybertrucks. Whether navigating off-road terrain or simply looking to make a statement, the optional light bar adds an exciting touch to the Cybertruck's exterior.

This wealth of information stemmed from the keen observations of X users @Tesla_App_iOS and @olympusdev_, who shared insights from the app update. As we approach its launch, these revelations underscore Tesla's commitment to innovation, versatility, and a forward-thinking approach to automotive design and functionality. The Cybertruck is not just a vehicle; it's a symbol of the future of transportation, and Tesla continues to lead the charge.

Tesla Reduces Sentry Mode Power Usage in Update 2024.38

By Karan Singh
Not a Tesla App

As part of Tesla software update 2024.38.4, Tesla has finally included updates to Sentry Mode to reduce its power consumption.

Sentry Mode is part of Tesla’s security system that keeps the vehicle sensors and cameras on to detect, record, and then inform the owner about suspicious activity. You can read more about it, including how much power it consumes, in our guide covering Tesla Sentry Mode.

Sentry Mode Battery Drain

Sentry Mode keeps the vehicle awake and continuously processes data from the vehicle’s eight cameras. However, due to the vehicle’s architecture and processing the multiple video feeds, Sentry Mode consumes a significant amount of power. Over a 24-hour period, an average Model 3 or Model Y will typically experience a battery drain of about 7-14% with Sentry Mode enabled, or roughly about one mile per hour.

While Sentry Mode is a great security feature, owners often have to decide whether the loss of range is worth the added security. Sentry Mode also becomes an issue when leaving your vehicle parked for an extended period of time, such as at the airport.

Sentry Mode Improvements

Tesla announced earlier this year that they were bringing significant efficiency improvements to Sentry Mode by cutting power usage by 40%.

Update 2024.38 is bringing about those changes. Tesla is changing the way its onboard computers process video to make Sentry Mode use much more efficient. Right now, the vehicle needs to keep its FSD and MCU (infotainment) computers on to process videos from the vehicle’s cameras. However, that’s changing with some architectural improvements in update 2024.38. We’ll have a much closer look at what’s changing in an article later this week.

This change will arrive first with the Cybertruck in update 2024.38.4 and later. According to our source, it will also be available for other models in a future update, but Tesla is starting with the Cybertruck first.

Since most Cybertrucks have FSD included as part of the Foundation Series, they’re on FSD-specific updates, meaning that the number of Cybertrucks with update 2024.38 is extremely small. Once it becomes more widely available, we should be able to get some numbers to see how close Tesla got to its 40% power reduction.

Tesla Now Shows Occupancy Status for Third-Party Chargers

By Karan Singh
@Matty06 on X

When navigating to or looking at a Supercharger in the Tesla app or in the vehicle, you can view how busy a Supercharger station is. However, viewing how busy a Supercharger is was limited to Tesla’s charging stations.

However, Tesla has now begun showing occupancy status at select third-party chargers in Europe. As part of the Qualified Third-Party Charger Program in Europe, Tesla began displaying third-party chargers on the vehicle’s maps.

Third-Party Occupancy

The third-party occupancy system appears when you tap a charger to navigate to. It provides the total number of stalls and the number of stalls currently occupied. In addition, it also provides the maximum charge speed of the stations located at the site. While not as seamless as Tesla’s prediction-based system used for Superchargers, which shows how many vehicles are actively driving to a particular Supercharger, it’s still a premium experience backed by Tesla’s high bar for its third-party program.

In addition, while you’re in map view, third-party charger sites show up as a grey bubble, with an indicator showing the number of free stalls currently available. That’s similar to how Superchargers are currently displayed on the map - though those are displayed in red. You can navigate to and precondition for these qualified third-party charging sites, which makes them an excellent option in areas where Supercharging isn’t available yet.

The third-party charger in grey.
The third-party charger in grey.
@Matty06 on X

Qualified Third-Party Charger Program

Although Tesla’s third-party charging program is currently limited to the Chinese and European markets, it enables third-party charging providers to display their locations directly within Tesla’s navigation system. However, to participate, providers must meet certain criteria over a 60-day period:

  • At least one compatible charging connector

  • Frequent use by Tesla drivers, averaging at least one session every four days

  • An average charge success rate of 90% or higher

This criterion isn’t actually very strict, given that Tesla aims for and achieves much higher numbers with their own Supercharger program.

Third-party charging stations will be removed from Tesla’s navigation system if any of the following conditions are met over a 14-day period:

  • No charge sessions detected

  • Average charge success rate falls below 70%

Tesla has opened the Qualified Third-Party Charger program in North America, so we hope to see this functionality roll out in North America alongside third-party NACS stations.

Reliable charging stations help sell electric vehicles. In fact, Tesla Superchargers are loved by all EV owners, regardless of the brand they own. Tesla’s commitment to ease of use and reliability is unmatched in the EV charging space.

Thanks to Daniel Albrecht for letting us know of this new feature.

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