Blind runner from George gets dream drive in Cybertruck

Video

GEORGE NEWS - What started as a simple Facebook post turned into a remarkable moment of human connection on the Garden Route this past weekend.

George resident Carl de Campos, a well-known runner, hiker and cyclist who is blind, had one wish.

He wanted to experience the futuristic Tesla Cybertruck, a vehicle not officially available in South Africa. Unsure how to make it happen, he reached out online to see if anyone had contact with the CyberLocos team currently travelling South Africa, or knew their next stop.

Dream makers

Local photographer and technology enthusiast Werner Ekron saw the post and decided to step in, sending a direct message to the CyberLocos team. Alan Wurman, also known as Alan's Theory, and Lars Aage Haaland Christiansen from Norway responded quickly.

At first, Ekron thought they might have to meet at an event. To their surprise, however, a request came directly from the CyberLocos team asking them to send their location. Ekron, who had arranged to pick up De Campos, could hardly contain his excitement as they headed to their meeting point at Elvis Brew near the airport on Saturday 4 April. There was no scheduled event; Wurman and Christiansen had driven from Mossel Bay that morning just to meet De Campos.

Something from the future: the spectacular Tesla Cybertruck in George. Photo: Werner Ekron (AI enhanced)

Torque and tech

Over a period of three hours, the meeting became something far more meaningful than a brief encounter. The team welcomed De Campos warmly, inviting him to explore and experience the vehicle. Guided by Wurman, he traced the angular stainless steel panels, doors, steering yoke and interior.

Then came the highlight - a drive. As the Cybertruck accelerated, its instant torque came alive. He could feel the vibration through his whole body. To his surprise, the vehicle even made playful "farting" sounds at the push of a button.

Wurman explained how the truck has navigated extreme conditions worldwide, from Bolivia's Death Road to Kenyan off-road safaris and roads near Victoria Falls. Its cameras and sensors provide 360-degree awareness, detecting pedestrians and obstacles, while side mirrors are legally required but not essential.

Watch the video for the full experience:

Making friends - and records

Wurman's connection with De Campos was natural, informed by his own experience growing up with a blind mother. Meanwhile, De Campos spoke about the Cybertruck with remarkable authority, describing its specs, battery systems and performance in detail that impressed even the drivers.

The visit was part of the team's global journey to set a Guinness World Records milestone for the most countries visited in an electric vehicle.

In the end, this was not just about a car. It was about curiosity, kindness, and accessibility created by people. For De Campos, it became an unforgettable experience, and he also gained a new friend in Ekron. Together, they share a passion for technology and all it can do.

Werner Ekron, the man who made it happen, with Carl de Campos at his home in George. Photo: Marguerite van Ginkel