Perhaps few other models have garnered so much speculative attention as the Tesla Cybertruck since it was announced in 2019. Featuring sci-fi styling, a stainless steel body, an all-electric powertrain, and the desirability of being Tesla’s first foray into the truck market, the Cybertruck is easily among the most anticipated models to enter production. After several delays, the Cybertruck could finally become a reality this year, and as that moment inches closer, we are learning more about this EV pickup and getting to see some of its features in action. Recently, one of its unique features, rear-wheel steering, was caught on display by Tokyotesla in a video shared on Twitter.
What Is Rear-Wheel Steering?
Though not a common feature on cars, rear-wheel steering has been around since it was introduced on the R31 Nissan Skyline in 1985. Essentially, rear-wheel steering uses an actuator to control the direction, or toe, of the rear wheels either in the same or opposite direction of the front wheels depending on the driving situation. When the rear wheels steer in the same direction as the front wheels, it can greatly aid in high-speed maneuverability. This approach is often used in larger or heavier cars with sporty intentions, such as Mercedes-AMG models, the Bentley Flying Spur, and the Porsche Panamera. Conversely, when the rear wheels move in the opposite direction of the front wheels, low-speed agility is greatly enhanced with a smaller turning circle. One notable example is GM’s Quadrasteer system, which ultimately proved to be too costly an option in the early 2000s.
The low-speed rear-wheel steering example was showcased in Tokyotesla’s video, which illustrates the Cybertruck in action as it traverses around poles in what appears to be a factory or convention floor. You can see the driver steer the front wheel left to circle a pole with the Tesla’s rear-wheels turned toward to the right, allowing it to make a tight turn around the obstacle. The Cybertruck is closely matched in size with the extended cab models of the Ford F-150, Chevy Silverado, and Ram 1500, but with its rear-wheel steering, the Cybertruck could be more agile in parking garages, job sites, and around other tight spaces.
However, the Cybertruck won’t be the only all-electric pickup with four-wheel steering. The Silverado EV will feature a four-wheel steering system, and the GMC Hummer EV also features four-wheel steering with “crabwalk” abilities. Still, the Tesla’s four-wheel steering could prove to be a positive selling point - once it arrives.
When Will The Cybertruck And Its Four-Wheel Steering Arrive?
The Cybertruck was originally supposed to enter production in 2021, but a bevy of delays, including outside factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent automotive supply chain woes, has continued to push back the pickup’s actual arrival. However, Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently announced the futuristic-looking truck will finally enter production this year, though mass-manufacturing is not expected until 2024. These delays, along with potential issues with Tesla’s implementation of its 4680 battery pack in the Cybertruck, has put the EV pickup behind the curve.
The Ford F-150 Lightning and Rivian R1T are already residing in garages, the Silverado EV is expected to roll out this fall, and Ram has unveiled its Ram 1500 Revolution concept, which will inspire its upcoming EV pickup.