Category: EV vehicles

February 21, 2025
Tesla Introduces Virtual Queuing After Supercharger Fight Video
Key Takeaways
1. Charging an electric vehicle (EV) can take a long time, leading to interactions and potential conflicts at public charging stations.
2. Tesla plans to test a virtual queuing system starting in Q2 2025 to manage access to chargers and reduce tensions among drivers.
3. The proposed queuing system will likely use a first-come, first-served method to organize charging access.
4. Tesla aims to increase network capacity by 20% year-over-year to help reduce congestion and disputes at charging locations.
5. It’s unclear how the new queuing system will work with EVs from other manufacturers, raising the potential for conflicts in city areas.
Charging an electric vehicle can take quite a bit of time, even when using the quickest chargers available. As a result, owners of EVs often find themselves having to engage with others at public charging stations, and sometimes this can lead to tense situations. Following the popularity of a video showing a conflict at a Supercharging location, Tesla has shared plans to test a virtual queuing system at selected sites starting in Q2 2025.
A New Approach to Charging
The proposed system is expected to manage the order in which drivers access the chargers, likely utilizing a first-come, first-served method. Although major confrontations are rare, the limited availability of parking and instances of queue-jumping can escalate tensions, making the experience of public charging less than enjoyable for drivers of electric vehicles.
Expansion Plans
According to Tesla, the company might implement the virtual queuing solution more broadly depending on user feedback. Additionally, they unveiled plans for a significant 20 percent increase in network capacity year-over-year to help ease congestion and minimize disputes.
Compatibility with Other Brands
Currently, it’s not clear how this new system will function with electric vehicles from other manufacturers. Tesla has been slowly allowing these brands to use their Superchargers, which raises the likelihood of conflicts between drivers, particularly in city environments.
Source:
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Tags: electric vehicles, Tesla, Virtual Queuing
February 20, 2025
Tesla Model Y Juniper Refresh Accessories: New Frunk Cooler Fit
Key Takeaways
1. The updated Model Y Juniper features a new frunk design with a drain plug for easy water management.
2. The frunk can be used as a cooler for tailgating or camping, enhancing convenience.
3. Tesla has introduced a portable frunk cooler, priced at $275, specifically designed for the new Model Y.
4. The cooler has dimensions of 29.8″ x 17.4″ x 11.5″ and offers a cooling capacity of 42 qt (40 L).
5. The cooler is compatible with previous Model Y frunks and is made from durable materials for effective insulation.
The recently updated Model Y Juniper has introduced a new frunk design at the front of the car, which now includes a drain plug for the very first time.
This enhancement makes it easier to use the frunk as a cooler for tailgating or camping, allowing for quick and easy drainage when ice melts, which can be a great convenience when you just have ice and no way to manage the water.
However, it’s important to mention that while this may be suitable for a casual party with friends, it isn’t the best option for transporting cold drinks in a more serious manner. Therefore, Tesla has also revealed a dedicated cooler designed specifically for the new Model Y.
Cooler Details
The new portable frunk cooler features the Tesla logo and is priced at $275. This item is part of a larger selection of new all-weather accessories created especially for the 2026 Model Y refresh.
Although 2026 Model Y owners can opt for various budget-friendly frunk coolers available on platforms like Amazon, the official Tesla version is designed to fit perfectly within its dimensions of 29.8″ x 17.4″ x 11.5″ (75.7cm x 44.2cm x 29.2cm), providing a useful cooling capacity of 42 qt (40 L).
Compatibility and Quality
Additionally, the new Juniper refresh cooler is compatible with the frunk of previous Model Y vehicles and is made from “durable, lightweight materials and high-quality insulation to keep perishables cold and ice frozen for days at a time,” according to Tesla’s claims.
Source:
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Tags: Model Y, portable frunk cooler, Tesla
February 20, 2025
American Startup’s Flying Car Hits 3,000+ Pre-Orders
Key Takeaways
1. Alef Aeronautics is developing the electric Model A flying car, capable of vertical takeoff and landing.
2. The Model A has a range of 220 miles on the road and 110 miles when flying, with FAA Special Airworthiness Certification.
3. The vehicle has received 3,300 pre-orders at a starting price of $300,000, with deposits starting at $150.
4. Production of the Model A is set to begin in late 2025, with deliveries to follow soon after.
5. Alef Aeronautics plans to release a more affordable flying car, the Model Z, priced at $35,000 in 2035.
Flying cars have long been a dream in science fiction, yet an American startup is working hard to turn this dream into reality. Alef Aeronautics has shared a video showcasing its electric Model A, which can take off and land vertically, as well as hover over a regular car, all happening in California.
Model A Specifications
The Model A has been under development since 2017, and Alef Aeronautics asserts that it can travel 220 miles on a single charge when on the road and 110 miles when flying. The US Federal Aviation Administration has granted it a Special Airworthiness Certification.
Pre-orders and Pricing
The startup has also released another video that depicts the Model A performing regular driving tasks on public roads. This has led to the company receiving 3,300 pre-orders for this innovative vehicle, starting at a price of $300,000. Flying car fans can still reserve one directly on the company’s website with a deposit of $150, while those willing to pay $1,500 can move up the waiting list.
Future Plans
Production is set to begin in late 2025, with deliveries to follow shortly after. Alef Aeronautics has partnered with Boeing contractors Pucara Aero and MYC to provide necessary car components. Moreover, the company plans to introduce a more affordable option, the “Model Z,” priced at $35,000 in 2035, aimed at customers who want flying cars without breaking the bank.
Source:
Link
Tags: Alef Aeronautics, Flying Cars, Model A
February 20, 2025
Xiaomi SU7 Ultra EV Sets Record at Shanghai Circuit, Beats Taycan
Key Takeaways
1. The Xiaomi SU7 Ultra achieved a record lap time of 2:09.94 at the Shanghai International Circuit, making it the fastest production car on that track.
2. The electric sedan can reach speeds of 323 km/h (201 mph) and accelerates from 0-100 km/h in just 1.98 seconds.
3. It features a triple motor configuration that produces 1,548 horsepower.
4. The SU7 Ultra is powered by the world’s first CATL Kirin II battery, enhancing its performance and power delivery.
5. Initial sales for the SU7 Ultra will start at approximately 800,000 Yuan (around 110,000 US Dollars).
Xiaomi has recently unveiled the capabilities of its SU7 Ultra. This new electric vehicle had the opportunity to showcase its skills at the Shanghai International Circuit (SIC) and has claimed the title of the fastest production car on that track. Let’s dive into what happened.
SU7 Ultra’s Impressive Lap Time
The tech powerhouse from China took its Xiaomi SU7 Ultra for a test drive at the SIC, where it achieved a remarkable lap time of 2:09.94. This time sets a new record for production vehicles on this circuit, regardless of the type of power. The SUV 7 Ultra EV surpassed the previous record held by the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT, which completed the 5.45km (3.39 miles) course in 2:11.28.
Electric Sedan Features
In a video released by Xiaomi (via Carscoops), the SU7 Ultra was shown hitting speeds of 323 km/h (201 mph) on the straight part of the circuit. It is also worth mentioning that the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra is expected to make its global debut at the upcoming MWC 2025 event. This electric sedan features a triple motor configuration (V8s + V8s + V6s), producing an impressive 1,548 horsepower. It can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in only 1.98 seconds and reach 0-200 km/h in just 5.86 seconds.
Advanced Power and Sales Info
This model is powered by the world’s first CATL Kirin II battery, which enables excellent power delivery. The record-setting run reinforces Xiaomi’s assertions that the SU7 Ultra comes with a braking system specifically designed for track use, capable of stopping the car from 100 km/h in a mere 25 meters. The initial sales of the Ultra are about to commence, with prices starting from approximately 800,000 Yuan (around 110,000 US Dollars).
Tags: electric vehicle, fastest production car, Xiaomi SU7 Ultra
February 19, 2025
Cybertruck Crash Test Shows Battery Pack Safety Features
Key Takeaways
1. The Tesla Cybertruck has a 5-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA, indicating strong passenger safety in frontal and side tests.
2. The Cybertruck is currently under investigation for a crash involving its Full Self-Driving feature, but passenger safety features remain unquestioned.
3. European authorities have not allowed the Cybertruck on public roads due to its sharp edges, which exceed safety regulations.
4. While crash tests showed good results for occupants, pedestrian safety evaluations for the Cybertruck are still uncertain.
5. Tesla is developing a more affordable rear-wheel drive (RWD) version of the Cybertruck, but it’s unclear if design changes will be made for compliance in Europe.
While Tesla’s Cybertruck, a massive 3-ton electric pickup made of stainless steel, has faced its share of controversies, one thing is clear: no one is questioning the safety of its passengers.
Accident Investigations
Recently, the Cybertruck was involved in a crash while using its Full Self-Driving (FSD) feature, which is currently under investigation by the NHTSA. Additionally, European authorities are not permitting it to be driven on public roads as usual due to its sharp edges. Still, there seems to be no doubt about the safety features inside the vehicle’s cabin.
Safety Ratings
The NHTSA, which is looking into Tesla’s self-driving-related accidents, has awarded the Cybertruck a commendable 5-star crash safety rating. However, this rating was only achieved in frontal and side crash tests, with the NHTSA estimating a low 12% chance of rollover. The images taken before and after the crash tests reveal that the Cybertruck’s frame and underbody, where the battery and drivetrain are located, have an impressive capability to absorb impact.
Future Considerations
While the crash dummies in Tesla’s electric truck performed exceptionally well during the safety tests, it is still uncertain how the Cybertruck will perform in pedestrian safety evaluations. The sharp edges of its stainless steel body exceed the allowed radius set by European regulators, which is one of the reasons Tesla has not yet launched it there. Elon Musk even mentioned in previous investor calls that modifications to the Cybertruck’s design will be needed for a European release.
Tesla is also working on a new, more affordable RWD version of the Cybertruck that is expected to launch this year. This model has already appeared in the IRS database as qualifying for tax credits. However, it remains unclear whether Tesla will make the necessary changes to sell it in Europe, where the NCAP safety tests include pedestrian safety evaluations.
Tags: Cybertruck, NHTSA, Tesla
February 18, 2025
Tesla Begins Mass Production of Model Y Juniper for Early Release
Key Takeaways
1. The Model Y Juniper facelift production has started, with deliveries expected to begin soon, possibly next week.
2. Initial customer deliveries in China are ahead of schedule, about a week earlier than Tesla’s original timeline.
3. The U.S. launch of the Model Y Juniper is expected to follow shortly after the Chinese release, with confirmed specs and pricing already announced.
4. The 2026 Model Y Juniper offers an EPA range of 327 miles, a 5% improvement over the previous model, achieved through better efficiency.
5. North American customers who reserved the Model Y Juniper may experience delayed delivery dates, with some pushed to next month due to ramp-up times at U.S. production facilities.
The upcoming Model Y Juniper facelift is set to be released sooner than Tesla had previously indicated. Mass production has already commenced, and deliveries are expected to begin “soon,” possibly as early as next week.
Early Production Update
Since the announcement of the Model Y Juniper, Tesla had mentioned March as the expected release month for both China and the United States. However, the Giga Shanghai team recently hinted that they have completed the pilot batch stage during a brief Chinese New Year break for upgrades and retooling. Now, proper mass production is underway, with deliveries to early customers about to commence.
Anticipated Customer Deliveries
Local reports suggest that the Model Y Juniper could be delivered as soon as next week, meaning that initial units will soon be in the hands of their new owners. This timeline is about a week ahead of Tesla’s originally announced delivery schedule, which is likely to lead to a surge of first-hand videos and reviews from excited customers.
U.S. Launch Expectations
Regarding the U.S. release of the 2026 Model Y Juniper, it is expected to follow closely behind the launch in China. Tesla announced the specs and pricing for the new Model Y just days after the information was shared in China. Additionally, Tesla has confirmed the official EPA range for the Model Y Juniper, which clears the way for an early U.S. release, depending on production readiness.
The facelifted 2026 Model Y boasts an impressive range of 327 miles on a single charge, which is a 5% improvement over the previous Model Y AWD, achieved through a more efficient drivetrain and improved aerodynamics rather than an increase in battery capacity.
Order Status for North American Customers
However, customers in North America who reserved the $60,000 Model Y Juniper and were initially given a February-March delivery timeframe are now seeing the release date pushed to next month. Tesla’s Giga Shanghai facility is its largest and most efficient production site, likely benefiting local customers, while those in the U.S. with new Model Y orders may have to wait an additional week or two for Giga Texas and Fremont to ramp up production of the Juniper facelift.
Source:
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Tags: Giga Shanghai, Model Y Juniper, Tesla
February 18, 2025
Tesla Model Y vs Xiaomi SU7: Shockingly Different Crash Damage
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla Model Y sustained minimal damage compared to the severely damaged Xiaomi SU7 after a collision in a tunnel in China.
2. The crash occurred when the Xiaomi SU7 collided with the rear of the Model Y, but details about the cause and passenger conditions remain unclear.
3. Tesla enthusiasts are highlighting the Model Y’s damage as evidence of its superior safety, but this perspective may be misleading.
4. The Xiaomi SU7 features an armored frame and crumple zone to protect passengers by absorbing impact during a crash.
5. Both vehicles are designed with safety mechanisms, and it is hoped that injuries were minimized in this incident.
Some images of a collision involving a Tesla Model Y and a Xiaomi SU7 have begun to appear on social media, primarily shared by Tesla enthusiasts who are eager to highlight the minimal damage sustained by the Model Y compared to the severely damaged SU7. The incident took place in a tunnel in China, with three of the four images (as shown below) captured at the crash scene, while the fourth displays the Xiaomi SU7 later in the daylight.
Details of the Crash
It seems the SU7 collided with the rear of the Model Y, but the exact reason for the crash and the condition of those inside the vehicles remains unclear. The Tesla Model Y exhibits some impairment on the rear and back bumper, whereas the front of the Xiaomi SU7 is completely wrecked. Nonetheless, even though some Tesla supporters argue this demonstrates the superior safety of the Model Y and raises questions about the quality of the Xiaomi electric vehicle, this perspective is misleading.
Understanding Vehicle Safety
The Xiaomi SU7 is equipped with an armored frame designed to safeguard its passengers, and, similar to many vehicles, features a crumple zone at the front: this area is intended to absorb impact during a crash. This design allows the car to decelerate more gradually and lessens the force experienced by the occupants, thereby enhancing their protection. The Tesla Model Y has received high safety ratings from various organizations, so the level of damage observed in the rear in the photos is somewhat anticipated. It is hoped that the safety mechanisms in both electric cars were adequate to minimize injuries in this incident.
Source:
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Tags: Car Safety, Tesla Model Y, Xiaomi SU7
February 17, 2025
Model Y Juniper FSD 13 Test Ride: Improved Self-Driving Comfort
Key Takeaways
1. The refreshed Model Y Juniper features the new Hardware 4.0 (AI4) suite, including a unique 4D cabin radar for enhanced passenger monitoring.
2. The 4D radar can recognize back seat occupancy, monitor passenger vital signs, and automate safety responses like opening windows or contacting emergency services.
3. Tesla’s latest FSD 13 software shows significant improvements in self-driving performance, requiring no driver input during testing.
4. Upgrades to suspension, ride height, and seating enhance overall ride comfort for passengers in the Model Y Juniper.
5. The new model includes a physical turn signal stalk, responding to user requests for improved manual driving features.
The first chance for the public to test drive the refreshed Model Y Juniper, equipped with the latest FSD 13 software, has been quite exciting, showing great potential.
New Features and Hardware
Tesla has outfitted the refreshed Model Y with the familiar Hardware 4.0 (AI4) suite, which includes high-resolution cameras and sensors seen in previous Model Y versions, as well as in the Model 3 and Cybertruck. However, this facelift stands out due to some unique hardware features, including a new 4D cabin radar. This radar is different from the one in older Model Y versions produced after November 2021, which was activated via a software update. The new 4D radar can also sense back seat occupancy.
Safety and Comfort Innovations
In addition to recognizing the size and weight of passengers for airbag deployment in case of an accident, the radar can monitor their pulse and breathing. This allows the car to automatically open windows, activate the A/C, or even contact emergency services if the app’s alert isn’t responded to by the owner.
The tester for the Model Y Juniper FSD remarked that Tesla’s latest self-driving software performs as well as ever, requiring no input from him during the drive shown in the video below. He noted significant improvements in ride comfort compared to the previous Model Y.
Enhanced Driving Experience
The Juniper refresh features a completely redesigned suspension, lower ride height, and slightly larger, more comfortable vented seats. These small upgrades collectively provide a better experience for passengers. Additionally, it now includes a physical turn signal stalk for manual driving, something that owners of the Model 3 refresh have been requesting for some time.
Source:
Link
Tags: FSD 13, Model Y Juniper, Tesla
February 17, 2025
BYD Exec: Solid-State Battery Demo Expected by 2027
Key Takeaways
1. Solid-state batteries are a key focus for research, especially among electric vehicle manufacturers aiming to improve range.
2. BYD plans to start demonstration projects for solid-state batteries around 2027, with wider availability expected by 2030.
3. CATL aims for limited production of solid-state batteries in 2027, but high-volume production may face cost challenges.
4. BYD’s battery material selection prioritizes cost and production stability, with trial production of single cells expected by 2024.
5. Large-scale use of solid-state batteries is anticipated to begin late in the decade, with costs expected to align with current liquid ternary batteries.
Solid-state batteries are a key focus in the research world, particularly among electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers looking to boost the range of their vehicles. BYD’s CTO for the battery division, Sun Huajun, mentioned that the company plans to start demonstration projects for solid-state batteries by around 2027. He made this statement during a recent forum and added that these batteries might not be widely available until 2030.
Industry Progress
Sun highlighted that advancements in solid-state batteries are consistent among major players in the industry. For instance, CATL, the leading global battery manufacturer, announced last year that it aims to begin limited production of its solid-state battery in 2027. Nevertheless, Wu Kai, the chief scientist of CATL, pointed out that achieving high-volume production could face challenges in lowering costs effectively.
BYD’s Strategy
According to Sun, BYD’s selection of materials for its batteries was influenced by factors such as cost and stability of production processes. The company initiated its research on solid-state batteries back in 2016 and is expected to reach trial production of single cells ranging from 20 Ah to 60 Ah by 2024.
Future Outlook
While it is anticipated that large-scale use of these batteries will not occur until late in the decade, Sun reassured that their affordability should not be a concern in the long run. As more options become available, costs are expected to align with those of liquid ternary batteries.
Source:
Link
Tags: BYD, CATL, Solid State Batteries
February 16, 2025
Cheapest Tesla Model 2 Spotted as Smaller Camouflaged Model Y
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla’s main designer downplayed rumors about the budget-friendly Model 2, confirming it’s not just a hot hatchback but a smaller version of the Model Y.
2. The Model 2 is expected to have impressive specs, including a 250-mile range and a 54 kWh battery, with production likely starting at Tesla’s Gigafactory in Texas.
3. Tesla plans to focus on the Model 2 after the release of the Model Y Juniper, with a reveal event possibly in mid-2024 to boost holiday sales.
4. The Cybercab, a two-seater priced under $30,000, is part of Tesla’s strategy to introduce more affordable vehicles, potentially benefiting from federal incentives.
5. A disguised vehicle resembling a smaller Model Y may be a prototype for testing or part of Tesla’s upcoming robotaxi platform, set to operate in Austin.
When Tesla’s main designer, Franz von Holzhausen, mentioned that the rumors about the least expensive Tesla Model 2 were greatly overstated, he was serious.
New Vehicle on the Horizon
Tesla has chosen to first reveal the Cybercab, a two-seater made with some parts from the Model Y. Elon Musk has reassured investors during multiple quarterly calls that a new, budget-friendly car is still on schedule for a 2025 launch. Initially, Tesla’s most economical vehicle was referred to as the Model 2 or Project Redwood. Musk explained that it would be a “smaller, for sure” version of the Model Y, rather than a hot hatchback.
Impressive Specifications
The expected specifications for the Model 2 are believed to surpass those of the urban-focused Cybercab. This includes a 250-mile range powered by a 54 kWh battery and larger dimensions along with a rear bench seat. Recently, a drone flew over Tesla’s Gigafactory in Texas, showcasing various activities at the extensive site, including new production lines and an expanded paint shop. These enhancements are likely aimed at preparing for the upcoming 2026 Model Y Juniper facelift production, scheduled for release next month. However, some of these facilities may also be set aside for initial production of the more affordable Tesla Model 2.
Exciting Developments
Interestingly, the drone footage captured a disguised vehicle resembling a smaller Model Y. Now that Tesla has unveiled the Juniper refresh, they have little to hide about the Model Y. The high-performance version of the Juniper is not expected until fall. Once the release date for the Model Y Juniper passes, Tesla can shift its focus towards the Model 2. The reveal event for this budget-friendly vehicle might occur in the second or third quarter. The aim will be to ramp up production for full deliveries during the crucial holiday season, enhancing Tesla’s sales figures with the anticipated Model 2.
The Cybercab is projected to be priced under $30,000, and the Model 2 could follow suit, especially with potential federal incentives, making it very appealing to buyers. Tesla might hold off on launching it until at least the fourth quarter to avoid impacting Model Y Juniper sales.
Potential Uses for the Disguised Vehicle
Alternatively, the compact-looking vehicle that resembles the Model Y could just be an illusion or a test prototype for various engineering tests. Elon Musk has mentioned that Tesla plans to introduce its robotaxi platform with owned vehicles operating on unsupervised FSD in Austin this June, suggesting that this camouflaged vehicle could also be part of that pilot program.
Source:
Link
Tags: Elon Musk, Tesla Cybercab, Tesla Model 2