See Tesla Cybertruck's Small Brake Rotors and Tiny Wiring in This Underbody Inspection

Tesla's first all-electric pickup truck may not seem like such a big deal at first. However, it is a very important venture for the world's most valuable automaker. Even though it's supposed to be a workhorse, the Texas-based brand gave it the flagship treatment.

In a way, Tesla pulled a BMW-like move. The Bavarians debut the latest and greatest features with the 7 Series. Then, some bits and pieces can also be found on lesser models like the 5 Series. The Cybertruck is Tesla's 7 Series.

This vehicle is the epitome of quirkiness. Its body panels can resist bullets, its windows are rock-proof, and it looks like a triangle when you only focus on what's above the shoulder line. But that's not all there's to it. The Cybertruck debuted 48V wiring, Ethernet-powered communications between modules, rear-wheel steering, and an 800V battery architecture. These are much-needed innovations because they enable the manufacturer to spend less on making the vehicle (and increasing profit margins) while also improving it for the customer.

But Tesla is Tesla. It cannot escape its fate. As such, the cool Cybertruck has a few downsides, which off-roading enthusiasts will mostly notice. They were eloquently displayed by someone who got their hands on one of the units delivered at the official launch event.

First things first, tires. Installing larger rubber bands may be quite complicated because there's not that much extra room available in the wheel well. Adding them on the rear axle seems more feasible, but those wheels move, too. Moreover, that's an adaptable parameter. The automaker went with a low movement degree for now. It could change as more data is collected. As such, giving the Cybertruck new footwear that is not approved by Tesla might be impossible. It could lead to some costly repairs.

Some might immediately say that wheel spacers could be helpful in this situation, but keep in mind that this EV weighs over 6,600 lb. That suspension setup doesn't look like it could handle abuse and creative aftermarket modifications. Even the technician says it looks like the setup found on the Model S. Tesla will have some work to do before the Cybertruck escapes being associated with the "basic" Honda Ridgeline.

Besides that, you might alter the steer-by-wire and the sensors that allow for no permanent physical connection between the steering wheel and the hardware that turns the front wheels.

It's worth noting that Unplugged Performance recently presented a two-inch lift kit that costs around $10,000 without installation. That could be what the Cybertruck needs to accommodate larger wheels with beefier tires. The shop has been officially endorsed by Tesla, so it's safe to assume it won't come forward with slapdash setups.

The presenter also suggests that Tesla installed special wheel nuts, but what the video shows us are regular alloy wheel nuts found on many other vehicles. They're not exclusive or better in any way.

You must also take into account that the brakes (Brembo in the front, Mando at the rear) are relatively small. The Cybertruck will make great use of regenerative braking, but stopping power is important when driving such a heavy vehicle.

But off-roading is also out of the question because the underbody protection is minimal. The pickup truck will need steel skid plates to survive contact with rocks.

The bumper covers are made from plastic. They might help mitigate impromptu meetings with vulnerable road users. The same material has been used for the underbody aero panels. The video doesn't show what's behind them, but rumors say we could find Model Y-like giga castings.

Finally, it's worth pointing out that this EV is a brand-new Tesla that debuts many technologies. Some drawbacks are to be expected with first-year models. But the potential is there. It could become an icon!