Category: EV vehicles

  • Tesla Expands to India: Showrooms Coming to Mumbai and Delhi

    Tesla Expands to India: Showrooms Coming to Mumbai and Delhi

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla is set to enter the Indian market with its first showrooms in Mumbai and Delhi, starting with a location in Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), Mumbai.
    2. The starting price for the Tesla Model 3 is around $40,000, but there are plans for a more affordable model priced at $25,000 (approximately 22 lakh INR) for the Indian market.
    3. Tesla’s entry is expected to significantly impact the Indian electric vehicle industry by introducing advanced technologies such as autopilot features.
    4. The company may consider local manufacturing in India while initially importing vehicles from China.
    5. Tesla’s move follows a meeting between Elon Musk and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, indicating potential government negotiations.

    After a lot of chatter and reports, Tesla is finally set to step into the Indian market. The company is preparing to launch its well-known electric vehicles in the region shortly, with a new report outlining the key cities where these cars will make their first appearance in India. Let’s take a look.

    First Showroom in Mumbai’s BKC

    The American electric vehicle manufacturer is said to be planning to open its first showrooms in the bustling cities of Mumbai and Delhi, as reported by MySmartPrice. They have secured a 4,000 square foot area on the ground floor of the Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) in Mumbai. This location will mark Tesla’s official arrival in India. After the unveiling in Mumbai, the company is also looking to set up another flagship showroom at Aerocity in Delhi.

    Tesla Model 3 Pricing

    Sadly, the specific location for the Delhi showroom is not yet disclosed. This news comes on the heels of a meeting between Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The company seems to have intentions to make its electric vehicles more budget-friendly in India. The starting price of the Tesla Model 3 is around 40,000 US Dollars, but there are whispers about the brand developing a model priced at 25,000 US Dollars specifically for the Indian market. This roughly equates to about 22,00,000 INR (or 22 lakh INR).

    Industry Impact with Tesla’s Entry

    With Tesla making its move into the Indian electric vehicle sector, the whole industry is likely to feel a significant effect as the brand introduces advanced technologies, including the autopilot feature. However, it’s still unclear how the company will implement many of these features. Tesla is expected to be considering local manufacturing and may be negotiating with the Indian government. Nevertheless, the initial vehicles are anticipated to be imported from China.

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  • Tesla Offers 0% APR Financing to Boost Model 3 Sales

    Tesla Offers 0% APR Financing to Boost Model 3 Sales

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Model 3 sales have dropped significantly, with an 81% decline in Australia and nearly a 50% decrease in Europe.
    2. In the US, Tesla introduced a 0% APR financing offer for the Model 3 to boost sales before quarterly results are reported.
    3. The financing offer requires a 15% down payment and is available for a 5-year term, with additional options for 72-month financing at 0.99% APR.
    4. Monthly payments for the Model 3 can range from approximately $540 to $748, making the financing option competitive compared to the average new car payment of $737.
    5. Anticipation for the Model Y Juniper refresh and external factors like brand boycotts are impacting Model 3 sales negatively.

    With the new Model Y Juniper refresh and Elon Musk’s political activities, the Model 3 seems to be facing tough times, as its sales have dropped significantly around the world.

    Sales Drop in Australia

    In Australia, factors like a brand boycott and anticipation for the Model Y Juniper refresh, set to arrive in May, have led to an astonishing 81% decline in Model 3 sales. Over in Europe, Tesla’s sales figures have almost been cut in half since the start of this year, even though other electric vehicle brands are experiencing growth.

    US Market Challenges

    The situation in the US isn’t looking great either, as Tesla has rolled out a 0% APR financing offer for its most affordable vehicle. This move aims to sell as many Model 3s as possible before the company has to disclose its quarterly sales results.

    Financing Details

    This 0% financing offer requires a minimum down payment of 15%, excluding fees and taxes, and is only available for a 5-year financing term. Buyers with good credit who qualify for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit can use that amount as their down payment. For those opting for a 72-month financing term, Tesla also has a 0.99% APR rate available.

    To sum it up, a Model 3 Long Range RWD can now be financed for around $540 per month, while the high-end Model 3 Performance version would cost approximately $748 monthly. The average car payment for a new vehicle in the US stands at $737, making Tesla’s 0% APR offer quite attractive. However, it remains uncertain how many people will take advantage of this deal, especially with the new Model Y just hitting the market.

    Additional Offer

    You can also find the 80A Tesla Gen 2 Wall Connector with a 24-foot cable available on Amazon.

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  • BYD Teams Up with Tesla to Accelerate EV Technology Sharing

    BYD Teams Up with Tesla to Accelerate EV Technology Sharing

    Key Takeaways

    1. BYD has surpassed Tesla as the largest electric vehicle manufacturer and is willing to share technology to benefit the industry.
    2. Both BYD and Tesla view internal combustion engines as their main rival and aim to promote electric vehicles as superior alternatives.
    3. BYD has launched its own autonomous driving feature, God’s Eye, and offers it for free, contrasting with Tesla’s paid Full Self-Driving feature.
    4. Chinese EV manufacturers, including BYD, welcome foreign competition to accelerate the transition away from internal combustion engines.
    5. BYD possesses unique technologies, such as Blade batteries and an 800V powertrain, and has introduced innovative features that differentiate it from Tesla.

    BYD, the electric vehicle manufacturer that surpassed Tesla to become the largest in the world last quarter, has announced its willingness to share technology to benefit the entire industry.

    Common Goals in the EV Market

    Stela Li, the Executive Vice President of BYD, stated that both BYD and Tesla face a shared rival – the internal combustion engine. They must unite against it, as electric vehicles are not only “better cars” but also “smarter” and offer “higher quality” compared to traditional petrol vehicles, she mentioned.

    Future Collaboration Uncertain

    The exact nature of a potential collaboration between BYD and Tesla remains unclear. However, Li noted that Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers are open to sharing their manufacturing and autonomous driving technologies with international companies to accelerate industry transformation together.

    Advancements in Autonomous Driving

    BYD is backing up its claims with action, having recently launched its own version of Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) feature, named God’s Eye. In a contrast to Tesla’s $8,000 price tag for FSD, BYD is promoting autonomous driving by offering this feature for free across all its vehicles, including the most affordable model.

    Welcoming Competition

    Not just BYD, but other Chinese companies are also embracing foreign competition as a pathway to more quickly eliminate internal combustion engine vehicles. For instance, XPeng’s CEO expressed positive views on the introduction of Tesla’s FSD in China, believing it will enhance the overall adoption of autonomous driving technologies.

    Unique Technologies at BYD

    Nevertheless, BYD possesses several technologies that are not found in Tesla vehicles, and it is uncertain if they will share these innovations. For example, BYD manufactures its own Blade batteries and utilizes a modern 800V powertrain across most of its models for quicker charging, in contrast to Tesla, which has launched even the latest Model Y using the older 400V system.

    Innovative Features and Diverse Offerings

    Recently, BYD has showcased steering technologies that outperform those used in Tesla’s Cybertruck, and it has also integrated a DJI drone system into its vehicles. Additionally, BYD offers a broader range of electric vehicle models compared to Tesla.

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  • Elon Musk Proposes Solution to Tesla Vandalism Issues

    Elon Musk Proposes Solution to Tesla Vandalism Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla owners are experiencing vandalism, including key scratches on their cars.
    2. Customers are urging Tesla to take action to protect their vehicles from damage.
    3. A user suggested adding an alarm system to notify criminals they are being filmed.
    4. Tesla’s existing Sentry Mode records threats but could benefit from a new alert feature.
    5. Some owners are changing their car logos or adding stickers to distance themselves from Elon Musk’s reputation.

    Emotions are quite intense regarding Elon Musk and his firm, Tesla. The backlash isn’t just aimed at the company’s buildings, as numerous customers are reporting acts of vandalism. Some have found their cars damaged by key scratches. Frustrated owners have urged the car manufacturer to take action, and Musk has suggested a possible fix.

    User Suggestions for Improvement

    A user on X, known as TeslaBoomerMama, has requested that Tesla consider adding an alarm system in their next software update. This alarm would alert criminals that they are being filmed and that authorities will be notified. Musk replied, mentioning that the car could beep at people.

    Existing Features and New Additions

    Tesla vehicles have had Sentry Mode for a long time. This feature uses outside cameras to keep an eye on and record possible threats when the car is parked. The recorded video can be saved on a USB drive for later viewing. Nevertheless, this new feature could potentially sound an alert when someone approaches, which might discourage would-be vandals from harming the vehicle.

    Owner Reactions and Creative Solutions

    Reports have emerged of Tesla owners taking extreme measures to keep troublemakers at bay. Some have swapped out the Tesla emblem for logos from other car brands. Others have taken to putting stickers on their cars, asking people to understand that they “bought this car before I knew Elon was crazy.”

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  • Tesla Model Y Juniper Deliveries Start in the US Before Release Event

    Tesla Model Y Juniper Deliveries Start in the US Before Release Event

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla began delivering the new Model Y Juniper refresh to US customers in early March, following earlier deliveries in China.
    2. A special invitation-only delivery event is planned for March 8 to celebrate the Model Y Juniper’s arrival in the US.
    3. Early adopters are sharing their delivery experiences and showcasing their new Model Y on online forums.
    4. The Model Y Juniper facelift features unique badging and includes the Full Self-Driving option, priced at $60,000.
    5. Tesla also announced delivery windows for the 2026 Model Y in Europe, with a launch event at Giga Berlin on March 7.

    Just as they said they would, Tesla began delivering the first preorders of the new Model Y Juniper refresh to customers at the start of March.

    When Tesla revealed the 2026 Model Y, they mentioned that the Juniper facelift would be available in the US around March. They also made the same statement regarding the launch in China, but they actually began delivering preorders there earlier, on February 26.

    Event to Celebrate the Release

    To mark the arrival of the Model Y Juniper refresh in the US, Tesla has planned a March 8 delivery event that is by invitation only. This event is designed to echo the Cybertruck launch, where Tesla gave keys to a mix of influencers and automotive journalists.

    Meanwhile, early adopters of the Model Y Juniper facelift in the US are sharing their delivery experiences on forums. They are posting their VIN numbers and showcasing the new model alongside other Tesla vehicles they own.

    Customer Experience Shared

    One customer shared their journey about ordering and receiving their vehicle. They placed a preorder for a 2026 Model Y Launch Series on January 23, and after several updates to the delivery timeframe—ranging from mid-February to early March—they finally received their Model Y on Sunday, March 2, at the Tesla store in Knoxville, Tennessee.

    They uploaded photos of the Model Y Juniper delivery from the store and from their garage, where the refresh is parked next to their 2024 Model 3 Performance. Now they have the latest versions of both of Tesla’s popular models.

    Exclusive Features and European Launch

    As Tesla is currently only offering the Launch Series edition in the US, the Tennessee owner’s new Model Y Juniper facelift features unique badging and comes with the Full Self-Driving option included in the $60,000 price tag before any tax credits.

    In addition to the US, Tesla has also begun delivery windows for the 2026 Model Y in Europe this week. They will host a launch event at Giga Berlin on Friday, March 7, just a day prior to the significant release celebrations in Fremont and Texas.

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    Tesla Model Y Juniper Deliveries Start in the US Before Release Event
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  • Tesla Announces Model Y Juniper Refresh Event in Texas

    Tesla Announces Model Y Juniper Refresh Event in Texas

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla is hosting a launch event for the Model Y Juniper facelift in the US on March 8, inviting influencers and journalists to attend.
    2. The company is ramping up Model Y production across four factories globally, with signs of high inventory levels in Texas.
    3. The official release date for the Model Y Juniper in the US is March 8, during which Tesla will announce specifications and pricing.
    4. Tesla has revealed pricing for certain Model Y Juniper versions in Europe, where sales have dropped, but US pricing details are still pending.
    5. A new RWD version of the Model Y Juniper offers a range of 386 miles (WLTP), the longest for this model, though US version details remain unclear.

    Tesla has started sending out invites for a significant launch event for the Model Y Juniper facelift in the US, scheduled for Saturday, March 8.

    Influencer Engagement

    Similar to the Cybertruck launch, Tesla is inviting various influencers and automotive journalists to showcase their vehicles publicly. Attendees will also get a guided tour of the production lines for the Model Y Juniper refresh at Tesla’s Gigafactories located in Texas and California.

    Global Production Efforts

    Tesla is undertaking an unusual ramp-up of Model Y vehicle production across four factories worldwide. While the refresh has already been rolled out in China, it appears that the US and Europe are not far behind. Recently, a drone flight over Giga Texas revealed parking lots brimming with newly manufactured Model Y Juniper units, hinting at an upcoming release, and the recent invitations only add to this speculation.

    Release Date and Pricing Information

    The official release date for the Model Y Juniper in the US is set for March 8. Although the launch event is exclusive, Tesla is expected to hold a keynote during the handoff ceremony to announce the official specifications and price range. This event may also be when Tesla updates its website with the new Model Y Juniper prices, as it has only listed a $60,000 Launch Series edition for preorder thus far. In Europe, where Tesla’s sales have dropped significantly this year, prices for the most affordable 2026 Model Y Juniper RWD and the non-Launch Series AWD variant have already been revealed.

    Notable Features

    In that region, Tesla also offers a special RWD version boasting a remarkable range of 386 miles (WLTP), making it the longest-range Model Y to date. It remains uncertain which Juniper versions will be available in the US and what types of batteries they will use.

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    Tesla Announces Model Y Juniper Refresh Event in Texas
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  • Tesla Slashes Model Y Prices by Over $8,000 Before Refresh

    Tesla Slashes Model Y Prices by Over $8,000 Before Refresh

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Model Y Juniper refresh has launched in China, while sales of the Launch Series with extended warranty have ceased there.
    2. In the US, the 2026 Model Y facelift is still awaited and currently available only as a costly Launch Series preorder edition priced nearly at $60,000.
    3. Tesla has reduced Model Y prices by up to $8,400 in the US, making the Model Y RWD available for as low as $33,890.
    4. Discounts on higher-end AWD versions are significant, with deals like a 2025 Model Y Long Range AWD available for $36,170, including several premium features.
    5. The launch of the Juniper refresh in the US may happen soon, with current discounts on older models making them attractive options for buyers not needing the latest features.

    The Model Y Juniper refresh made its debut in China this week, but Tesla has also ceased sales of the Launch Series with extended warranty there.

    US Availability and Pricing

    In contrast, the 2026 Model Y facelift is still awaited in the United States. Currently, it’s only offered as a pricey Launch Series preorder edition, which comes in at nearly $60,000 when bundled with FSD and other features.

    Price Cuts and Deals

    The release of the Juniper refresh in the US seems imminent, especially since Tesla has reduced prices on the Model Y across its inventory to make room for the updated model. The price reduction can be as much as $8,400, which surpasses the federal tax credit offered as a point-of-sale incentive. As a result, you can snag a brand new Tesla Model Y RWD for just $33,890 right now.

    Tesla lists the price for a specific Model Y featuring dark 19-inch Gemini Wheels at $27,890, but this figure includes a questionable 5-year gas savings estimate that may not apply universally.

    Premium Options and Discounts

    The discounts are even more appealing for the higher-end AWD versions. For example, a 2025 Model Y Long Range AWD demo unit with 700 miles on the clock is available for an $8,320 discount. Priced at $36,170, this deal is particularly attractive as it includes the 7-seat Model Y configuration, Quicksilver paint, dark Gemini Wheels, and a Black and White Premium Interior—all extras that are now included in the cost.

    The high-end Model Y Performance variant, which won’t be available at launch with the Juniper refresh, is also a fantastic deal at $36,590. This demo unit, with only 200 miles on it, has an $8,400 discount and includes optional extras like a Deep Blue Metallic finish.

    Anticipation for the Juniper Refresh

    The extensive list of enticing Model Y deals suggests that the Juniper refresh could be launched as early as next week, as Tesla has set its sights on March. It’s unclear what price the non-Launch Series edition will command in the US, but it’s unlikely to match the current offers on the older Model Y, particularly the Performance variant, which might not arrive in its updated form until the holiday season.

    For individuals who aren’t overly concerned about having the latest design with updated features, this is an excellent chance to purchase a new or nearly new Model Y starting from the low thirties. After all, the new 2026 Model Y Juniper refresh still maintains the previous battery capacity and low-voltage architecture, along with the same relatively slow charging speeds from the aging 400V powertrain.

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  • Xiaomi SU7 Ultra Outpaces Tesla Model S Plaid in 0-60 Acceleration

    Xiaomi SU7 Ultra Outpaces Tesla Model S Plaid in 0-60 Acceleration

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi launched the SU7 Ultra, their first performance EV, at a starting price of around $72,930, 35% less than the initial preorder price.
    2. The SU7 Ultra broke the Nürburgring lap record, outperforming the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT.
    3. It accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 1.89 seconds, faster than the Tesla Model S Plaid, with a top speed of 350 km/h (217 mph).
    4. The vehicle features a 94 kWh battery, charging to 80% in 11 minutes, with a range of 630 km (391 miles), though this is based on the lenient Chinese CLTC cycle.
    5. Xiaomi has already received 6,900 orders for the SU7 Ultra, indicating strong demand and a goal to deliver 10,000 units.

    Xiaomi has made waves in the electric vehicle market with their first performance EV, the SU7 Ultra. This vehicle has already made headlines by breaking the Nürburgring lap record, previously held by the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT. The only remaining question was how much it would cost at launch.

    Launch Price Revealed

    Yesterday, the SU7 Ultra was launched at a starting price that is a stunning 35% less than its initial preorder price from October. Now, the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra is priced at around $72,930, which makes it almost $40,000 less than the Tesla Model S Plaid in China.

    Impressive Specs

    To add to the excitement, the SU7 Ultra is actually quicker than the Model S Plaid, achieving 0-60 mph in just 1.89 seconds compared to Tesla’s 2.1 seconds. Its maximum speed is capped at 350 kilometers per hour (217 miles per hour), powered by three electric motors that produce a combined output of 1,548 horsepower.

    Bigger and Better

    This performance-oriented sedan is larger than Xiaomi’s original SU7 electric vehicle. It boasts a substantial 94 kWh battery that can reach 80% charge in just 11 minutes, providing a range of 630 km (391 miles) on a single charge. However, it’s important to note that this figure is based on the Chinese CLTC cycle, which tends to be about a third more lenient than the EPA’s testing standards. Thus, the Tesla Model S Plaid still holds the edge in range, with a CLTC rating of 672 km.

    Xiaomi, primarily recognized for its smartphones like the 14T Pro, has only recently ventured into the electric vehicle space with the SU7, which has quickly gained popularity, leading to a waiting list of seven months. In China, CEO Lei Jun is regarded with the same kind of entrepreneurial admiration as Elon Musk in the U.S. He stated that the SU7 Ultra aims to offer performance on par with Porsche while integrating Tesla-like technologies and providing a luxurious experience akin to a Mercedes.

    Shortly after the car was unveiled, Xiaomi announced that they had already received 6,900 orders for the SU7 Ultra, which suggests that the company is on track to meet Lei Jun’s ambitious goal of delivering 10,000 units.

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    Xiaomi SU7 Ultra Outpaces Tesla Model S Plaid in 0-60 AccelerationXiaomi SU7 Ultra Outpaces Tesla Model S Plaid in 0-60 Acceleration

     

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  • Suspect Arrested for Multiple Attacks on Tesla Stores

    Suspect Arrested for Multiple Attacks on Tesla Stores

    Key Takeaways

    1. Lucy Grace Nelson, 40, was arrested for vandalizing Tesla’s store in Loveland, Colorado.
    2. The incidents took place on January 29, February 2, and February 7.
    3. Nelson was found with equipment that could start fires and cause damage.
    4. She has posted a $100,000 bond and faces multiple felony charges, with potential federal charges pending.
    5. Tesla is actively pursuing legal action against vandals and implementing security measures like marked Supercharger cables.

    Tesla is still dealing with vandalism at its locations, but it appears that law enforcement is finally closing in on a suspect. The Loveland Police Department has reported the arrest of the person believed to be behind four separate attacks on Tesla’s store in Colorado.

    Arrest Details

    As stated by Police Chief Tim Doran, 40-year-old Lucy Grace Nelson, also known as Justin Thomas Nelson, was taken into custody on February 24th. This was in relation to incidents that occurred at Tesla’s Loveland store on dates including January 29th, February 2nd, and February 7th. The suspect was caught at the store, where they had equipment that could potentially start fires and cause damage.

    Legal Proceedings

    After being arrested, Nelson was taken to Larimer County Jail, but has since managed to post a bond set at $100,000. They face several charges, which include attempts to commit class 3 and class 4 felonies. There might also be federal charges coming, as the Loveland Police are collaborating with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.

    Tesla’s Response

    Tesla has committed to pursuing legal actions against those who attack its properties. In an effort to combat vandalism and theft, the company is marking its Supercharger cables and using ink that can explode. The automaker has seen a rise in vandalism across the US, some of which is thought to be connected to CEO Elon Musk’s involvement with the current government.

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  • Tesla Seeks Ride-Hailing License for Human Drivers

    Tesla Seeks Ride-Hailing License for Human Drivers

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla has applied for a ride-hailing permit in California to enhance its robotaxi service.
    2. The permit allows Tesla to compete directly with companies like Waymo and Uber.
    3. Discussions with state officials indicate potential involvement of human drivers alongside autonomous vehicles.
    4. Waymo currently offers a driverless ride-hailing service in multiple locations, while Tesla has not yet applied for a driverless vehicle permit.
    5. Tesla plans to launch its Unsupervised Full Self-Driving service in Austin, Texas, with hopes of expanding to other US cities by the end of the year.

    Tesla seems to be making strides with its robotaxi service as it applies for a ride-hailing permit in California. Reports from Bloomberg indicate that the company submitted a request for a “transportation charter-party carrier permit” to the California Public Utilities Commission in late 2024.

    Competing with Major Players

    This permit will enable Tesla to go head-to-head with companies like Waymo and Uber. Notably, Uber’s CEO mentioned that Tesla chose to develop its ride-hailing service independently rather than collaborating with Uber. Discussions between Tesla and state officials have included topics such as driver’s licenses and drug testing, hinting that there might still be human drivers in the mix. The type of permit Tesla is seeking indicates that the company will own the vehicles rather than relying on individual drivers.

    Waymo’s Driverless Service

    Waymo currently provides a driverless ride-hailing service in various areas, including Metro Phoenix, the San Francisco Bay Area, and Los Angeles. However, a spokesperson from Tesla informed Bloomberg that the company has neither applied for nor received a permit for testing or deploying driverless vehicles.

    Future Plans for Tesla

    Nevertheless, Tesla has announced plans to introduce its Unsupervised Full Self-Driving (FSD) in Austin, Texas, in June, featuring the Cybercab as a paid option. While Tesla hasn’t secured regulatory approval in any location, CEO Elon Musk has expressed intentions to roll out the autonomous ride-hailing service in multiple cities across the US before the year concludes.

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