Category: EV vehicles

May 2, 2025
Older HW3 Teslas Can’t Use New 360-Degree Sentry Mode Feature
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla cars with Hardware 3.0 (HW3) are getting the new Dashcam Viewer feature in the 2025.14 Spring Release update.
2. Enhanced Sentry mode features are not available for older HW3 vehicles due to resource limitations.
3. Even HW3 vehicles with the faster Ryzen FSD processor cannot access the new 360-degree Sentry mode.
4. The Dashcam Viewer provides improvements like a grid view with four camera feeds and quicker previews of Sentry footage.
5. The Cybertruck, equipped with the AI4 kit, also lacks the B-pillar camera update for Sentry mode, with further updates expected later this year.
Tesla cars equipped with the old Hardware 3.0 (HW3) system, which makes up the majority of their fleet on the roads, are receiving the new Dashcam Viewer feature through the 2025.14 Spring Release update.
Limited Features for Older Models
The upgraded Sentry mode, which offers enhanced video surveillance, cannot be utilized on older HW3 vehicles. This is due to the lack of resources needed to manage the additional video feeds from the B-pillar cameras, which would allow Sentry mode to provide a full 360-degree surveillance experience. Instead of opting for an external dash camera solution, like Vantrue, Tesla has chosen to limit these features to newer models that use the HW4 system, now referred to as AI4.
FSD Computer and New Features
Even HW3 vehicles that are equipped with the quicker Ryzen processor for their FSD computer aren’t able to access the new 360-degree Sentry mode feature. But they will enjoy the new Dashcam Viewer, which enhances the display with improvements, like a grid view that shows four camera feeds simultaneously and quicker previews of Sentry footage in 15-second intervals.
Cybertruck’s Unique Position
Interestingly, the Cybertruck, which boasts the latest AI4 kit, also misses out on the B-pillar camera update for Sentry mode. Being a taller vehicle, it appears that Tesla might require more time to develop a comprehensive 360-degree surveillance system for it. Cybertrucks have been targets of vandalism even prior to Elon Musk’s involvement with the federal government, which created some negative perceptions of the Tesla brand. Therefore, it’s likely that the HW4-exclusive upgrades for Sentry mode will be rolled out to the Cybertruck through an OTA update later this year.
Source:
Link
Tags: HW3, Sentry Mode, Tesla
May 1, 2025
Tesla Chair Denies Efforts to Remove Elon Musk as CEO
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla denied rumors of searching for a new CEO to replace Elon Musk, with confirmations from the board chairwoman and Musk himself.
2. Reports suggested that Tesla’s board reached out to executive search firms, indicating Musk should focus more on Tesla’s operations.
3. Musk plans to reduce his responsibilities with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and allocate limited time to it.
4. Tesla is facing challenges with declining demand and rising manufacturing costs, leading to a drop in net income.
5. The company is set to introduce more affordable versions of the Model Y and Model 3 to address sales declines, but results may take time to evaluate.
A report suggesting that Tesla is searching for a new CEO to replace Elon Musk has been firmly denied by the company, its board chairwoman Robyn Denholm, and Musk himself.
Claims of Executive Search
The rumor claimed that Tesla’s board reached out to prominent executive search firms to explore the possibility of finding a replacement. They reportedly focused on one particular firm, indicating to Musk that he should dedicate more time to Tesla’s operations.
Musk did not raise any objections and declared that starting in May, he would cut back on his responsibilities with the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). He has exited the West Wing office, where he was working on reducing government expenditure. During the last cabinet meeting, Trump expressed gratitude towards Musk and mentioned that he probably wishes to “return to his cars.”
Ongoing Communication
The Chief of Staff for Trump stated that communication with Musk remains regular, but instead of face-to-face meetings, they are now conversing over the phone, achieving “the same net effect.”
Musk had previously mentioned that he would only allocate one or two days a week to DOGE, leaving his assembled team to manage operations.
Challenges for Tesla
Tesla is currently grappling with a significant drop in demand and rising manufacturing costs, a situation that has worsened since Musk took up his role at the White House, leading to a notable decline in net income last quarter.
While the company attempted to connect the drop in shipments to the timing of the new Model Y launch and factory upgrades, the ongoing decline in sales, particularly in Europe, suggests a possible long-term shift in brand perception.
To tackle these challenges, Tesla is preparing to introduce more affordable versions of the Model Y and Model 3, which will feature lower specifications and reduced interior comforts. However, despite Musk’s renewed focus on daily operations, it may take several quarters before shareholders can accurately assess the effectiveness of these strategies.
Source:
Link
Tags: Elon Musk, Model Y, Tesla
April 30, 2025
Toyota Unveils Hydrogen Solutions Website for North America
Key Takeaways
1. Toyota sees hydrogen as a key future energy source, using fuel cells that combine hydrogen with oxygen to create electricity.
2. The fuel cells have a modular design, allowing for versatile applications, including off-grid energy supplies.
3. Currently, the fuel cells are primarily used in the 2025 Toyota Mirai, a type of electric vehicle known as an FCEV.
4. These fuel cells can produce a maximum output of 85 kilowatts (kW) of zero-emission power.
5. Toyota is promoting its next-generation power technologies through a newly launched website to encourage client engagement.
Toyota believes that hydrogen will be a key energy source in the future. They say they have successfully captured this energy in their “proven” fuel cells, which create electricity by combining the universe’s “most abundant” resource with oxygen using a polymeric electrolyte membrane.
Modular Design for Versatility
These fuel cells can be arranged in a modular or “stacked” way, making them suitable for a variety of uses, including off-grid stationary energy supplies for businesses.
At present, these fuel cells are mostly utilized in the 2025 Toyota Mirai, which is a unique type of electric vehicle called an FCEV. They are also used in the powertrain of Toyota’s Class 8 heavy-duty truck, which has reportedly completed 130,000 miles of “real-world” testing for haulage.
Impressive Power Ratings
The fuel cells are rated for a maximum output of 85 kilowatts (kW) of “on-demand zero-emission power” and are poised for deployment from Toyota Motor North America’s Hydrogen Headquarters.
The company is now encouraging potential clients to fully commit to its next-generation power technologies through their newly launched website.
Source:
Link
Tags: hydrogen fuel cells, Mirai, Toyota
April 30, 2025
Tesla Model Y to Charge at Megawatt Semi Chargers Soon
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla is building advanced V4 Superchargers for its Semi, launching commercially in 2026.
2. The 1.2 MW charging stations can provide energy to 8 charging stalls simultaneously, enhancing efficiency.
3. Tesla has permits for 46 Semi charging locations this year and plans to add over 300 charging piles by 2026.
4. New stations use most components from existing Superchargers, allowing for faster and cheaper rollout.
5. Tesla is enabling white-label Supercharger projects for other companies, promoting faster network growth through collaboration.
Tesla is in the process of building the advanced V4 Superchargers meant for its Semi, which is set to launch commercially in 2026.
Powerful Charging Capability
These 1.2 MW charging stations are made to work with Tesla’s passenger cars, including the Model Y. The power units can provide energy to as many as 8 charging stalls simultaneously, which is quite efficient.
Tesla has received permits to establish 46 charging locations for the Semi this year and in 2026, aiming to add over 300 charging piles to its rapidly expanding network.
Sharing Insights from the ACT Expo
During the ACT Expo 2025 clean energy conference, Dan Priestley, who leads the Tesla Semi project, mentioned that the new 1.2 MW stations use most of the internal components from the existing Superchargers, except for the stronger cables and connectors necessary for megawatt-level charging.
This design will enable Tesla to roll them out quickly and at lower costs, which should positively impact the pricing per kWh while maintaining the reliability and uptime that users expect from the Supercharger network.
Expanding Through Collaboration
In addition, Tesla is leading initiatives for white-label Supercharger projects, allowing other companies to install and brand these chargers. This move lets them benefit from local or federal subsidies while ensuring quicker growth of Tesla’s charging network.
The details of the Hardware Sales program were shared at the Power2Drive EV industry event in Munich. Tesla’s Moritz Gutbrod hinted that interested parties could have “full control, yet zero hassle” when they install and manage Supercharger stations under their own brand and pricing models.
Source:
Link
Tags: Tesla, Tesla Semi, V4 Superchargers
April 30, 2025
Xiaomi YU7 Long-Range Edition Leaks Featuring Panoramic HUD Tech
Key Takeaways
1. Xiaomi plans to disrupt the e-SUV market with the YU7, set to launch by July 2025.
2. The YU7 is expected to have a single-motor setup offering a driving range of up to 835 km (519 miles).
3. Interior features will include a steering wheel with physical controls and a “Panoramic” heads-up display.
4. The YU7 may utilize materials like carbon fiber and Alcantara, with a distinctive burgundy and beige color scheme.
5. The YU7 may only be available in China, though similar features can be found in aftermarket products.
Having made a strong entrance into the electric sedan market in its home country of China, Xiaomi is set to disrupt the e-SUV segment with the YU7, expected to launch by July 2025.
Confirmation of Specifications
To support this speculation, the company has apparently received certification for a version of the vehicle from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), featuring a single-motor setup that can provide as much as 835 kilometers (km, or around 519 miles) of driving range.
It’s unclear if this will be a premium version of the YU7, as other configurations are rumored to offer a range of 820 km (approximately 510 miles) on a single charge.
Interior Features
Reports suggest that the YU7 will come with an interior that includes a steering wheel equipped with physical controls, along with a central console that has more switches leaning toward the driver’s side.
Additionally, there seems to be a “Panoramic” heads-up display that may show the time, date, and the status of the car’s systems and infotainment features.
Material Choices and Design
There are discussions about using materials like carbon fiber and Alcantara for certain versions of the YU7. Photos of the interior have surfaced, showcasing a burgundy color scheme with beige highlights; it’s yet to be determined if this color will vary based on the car’s exterior design.
The anticipated YU7, as described, might not be sold to buyers outside of China. Nevertheless, enthusiasts can find similar features, such as Alcantara steering wheel grips, available on Amazon.
Source:
Link
Tags: electric SUV, Xiaomi, YU7
April 29, 2025
BYD Shenzhen’s Maiden Voyage to Brazil with 7,000 Electric Cars
Key Takeaways
1. BYD’s latest car carrier, Shenzhen, is on its way to Brazil with over 7,000 vehicles on board and is set to arrive at Itajai Port in about 30 days.
2. Shenzhen is the largest car transporter in the world, capable of carrying 9,200 vehicles and equivalent in size to 20 soccer fields.
3. The ship is named after the Chinese city of Shenzhen, a key production center for BYD, and features 16 decks.
4. BYD currently operates four car carriers and is expanding its fleet to enhance vehicle export logistics and compete with Tesla.
5. The automaker is preparing to launch its fifth vessel, the Changsha, with the same capacity as Shenzhen, and has introduced a sixth ship named Xian, with pending details.
BYD has sent its latest car carrier, named Shenzhen, to Brazil, carrying over 7,000 vehicles on board. The official handover to the carmaker took place on April 22, 2025. The ship is expected to arrive at Itajai Port in about 30 days.
Impressive Size
This vessel is recognized as the largest car transporter worldwide, though it wasn’t fully loaded when it departed on April 27 from Taicang, Jiangsu province in China. It has the capacity to hold 9,200 vehicles, and its cargo hold is equivalent to 20 standard soccer fields.
Named After a City
In line with BYD’s tradition of naming ships, Shenzhen is named after the Chinese city which is a key production center for the automaker. The ship measures 219.9 meters in length and 37.7 meters in height, featuring a total of 16 decks.
Expanding the Fleet
Currently, BYD operates four car carriers as it seeks to broaden its global reach and compete with Tesla. The company aims to enhance the efficiency of vehicle export logistics by managing operations internally. Other ships in the BYD fleet include the Explorer No. 1 (owned by a different company), the Hefei with a capacity for 7,000 cars, and the Changzhou.
BYD is preparing to launch its fifth vessel, the Changsha, which will have the same capacity as the Shenzhen. Additionally, the automaker has introduced the sixth ship, named Xian, but details about its specifications are still pending.
Source:
Link
Tags: BYD, electric vehicles, Shenzhen
April 29, 2025
New Toyota BZ7 Flagship Electric Sedan Unveiled
Key Takeaways
1. Toyota unveiled the bz7 at the Auto Shanghai 2025 event in collaboration with Guangzhou Automobile Group Co (GAC).
2. The bz7 is a flagship electric sedan, measuring nearly 200 inches (~5,080 mm) in length, and features a design similar to the 2024 concept model.
3. Key design elements include conventional door handles, white leather seating, wooden trim, ambient lighting, and a large infotainment screen with Huawei’s HarmonyOS.
4. Toyota plans to launch the bz7 in China within the next year, with an estimated starting price of CNY 170,000 (~$23,400).
5. There is uncertainty about the bz7’s availability in other regions, including the US, where Toyota already sells the bZ4X.
Toyota has introduced the bz7 at the Auto Shanghai 2025 event. This fresh model has been created in partnership with Guangzhou Automobile Group Co (GAC). It adds to Toyota’s lineup of battery electric vehicles, which already includes the bZ4X and the bZ3.
Details About the bz7
Currently, Toyota has shared just a few specifics about the new bz7. The company has labeled this electric sedan as a flagship model, and its length is almost 200 inches (~5,080 mm). The design of both the exterior and the interior of the bz7 closely resembles the original concept that was showcased in 2024. Notably, it sports a lidar sensor positioned on the front of the roof, along with a front light bar and headlights that remind one of the Toyota Prius.
Design Changes and Interior Features
One notable difference from the concept version is the introduction of conventional door handles. Inside the electric vehicle, you’ll find white leather seating, wooden trim, and ambient lighting. Additionally, there’s a more extensive infotainment screen equipped with Huawei’s HarmonyOS. Further information about the electric vehicle, particularly its powertrain, has not been disclosed yet.
Launch Plans and Pricing
Toyota plans to launch the bz7 in China; as per a recent press release, the company aims to deliver the electric vehicle to customers within the next year. There are rumors suggesting that the initial price for this model is CNY 170,000 (~$23,400). Although Toyota has not confirmed if it will also introduce the bz7 in other regions such as the US, where it already markets electric vehicles like the bZ4X, it appears unlikely given the present information.
Source:
Link
Tags: bz7, electric vehicle, Toyota
April 29, 2025
30% Cheaper Model Y: 55 kWh Battery & Cloth Seats Leaked
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla plans to introduce more affordable models, including a budget-friendly version of the Model Y, with a design similar to the Model Y and Model 3 but not identical.
2. The new Model Y, referred to as project E80, is expected to be priced between $20,600 and $26,000, representing a 30% decrease compared to the current Model Y’s pricing.
3. To reduce manufacturing costs, Tesla will utilize existing production lines and modify the design of the Model 2, which is now on hold due to other projects.
4. The budget Model Y will feature a smaller battery (50-55 kWh) and fewer comfort features, such as cloth seats and reduced audio systems, to keep costs low.
5. Despite the lower price point, the basic specifications like range and acceleration are anticipated to remain similar to those of the current Model Y.
According to the Chief Financial Officer of Tesla and lead engineer Lars Moravy, the company is set to unveil more affordable models that will share a “similar shape and form” to its best-selling electric cars, the Model Y and Model 3, soon.
New Design Insights
However, similar does not mean identical. Recent leaks have revealed the framework and specifications for the more budget-friendly Model Y. A drone flying over Tesla’s Fremont factory has captured images of several body frames resembling the Model Y SUV, although the roof appears to be smaller than that of the popular crossover. Additionally, there is a frame that seems to feature falcon wing doors, hinting at a potential facelift for the Model X.
Another recent sighting shows a disguised vehicle being towed, maintaining the crossover silhouette but with a more sloped rear, similar to what was previously seen at Giga Texas.
Project E80 Unveiled
This aligns with Tesla’s plans for the Model 2, its most affordable car, which was said to look like a smaller version of the Model Y. With Tesla’s sales declining and the Model 2 project being put on hold for the launch of the Cybercab, it seems that the design for Model 2 has been modified to fit the existing production lines.
Lars Moravy mentioned that this approach is aimed at reducing manufacturing expenses to offer the lowest monthly payments for buyers. Instead of creating an entirely new design that would necessitate major retooling or new production lines, Tesla is focusing on leveraging its current setups.
Pricing and Specifications
As the first body frames for the smaller, more affordable Model Y may be taking shape, its specs and pricing have begun to surface from China. Known as project E80, the new compact Model Y could be priced between $20,600 and $26,000, depending on the sources from Tesla’s Shanghai Gigafactory. This pricing is more competitive compared to rivals in the crossover market and represents at least a 30% decrease from the Model Y Juniper facelift in China.
Interestingly, a few weeks ago, rumors surfaced about a budget Tesla vehicle codenamed E41, indicating that the US might see an entry-level Model 3. During the quarterly earnings call, Tesla’s CFO confirmed that the company’s research and development efforts are concentrated on “cheaper models.”
Features and Specifications
To achieve this lower price point for the Model Y, besides downsizing the vehicle, insiders suggest that a more basic version will be released. Initially, the battery will be in the range of 50-55 kWh, which should help in lowering production costs significantly. Despite the smaller battery, the range is expected to remain relatively unchanged due to the lighter weight and smaller wheels.
Many design and comfort features typically found in Tesla vehicles will be absent. Following the trend set by the RWD Cybertruck and Model 3, the cheaper Model Y will likely come with cloth seats that are neither heated nor ventilated. Additional features such as a rear screen, dual-layer acoustic glass, and multicolor ambient lighting will also be removed, and the number of speakers will drop from 15 to seven.
The automatic trunk gate and panoramic glass roof will also be eliminated, yet there’s no confirmation regarding the distinctive exterior light bars that characterize the new Model Y design. The RWD Cybertruck does not include light bars, indicating that the cheaper Model Y may follow suit if Tesla aims to keep costs low.
Conclusion
In essence, the more affordable Model Y will be a “smaller, to be sure” version of the current Juniper refresh, as Elon Musk commented on the Model 2 a few quarters ago, and it will be a basic model in terms of comforts and design features.
Basic specifications like range and acceleration are not expected to differ much, while the price is projected to be around 30% lower, which would place it in the desirable $25,000 to $30,000 range in the US after accounting for federal tax credits.
Source:
Link
Tags: Model 2, Model Y, Tesla
April 29, 2025
Tesla Model Y: New Larger 3-Row Version with Extra Seats Launching in May
Key Takeaways
1. The latest Model Y currently offers only a five-seat interior option, indicating potential future variants.
2. Insiders suggest that a six-seat version will be released before a seven-seat version, particularly in China.
3. The new six-seat Model Y may have a different design compared to typical Chinese models, which often include three rows of full-size seats.
4. Tesla is planning to start production of a three-row Model Y at Giga Shanghai soon.
5. The upcoming Model Y with a third row will likely feature an extended wheelbase for increased comfort.
At the ordering page, the latest Model Y is shown with just one “five seat interior” option in both the US and China. This suggests that Tesla is possibly considering other versions in the future.
Potential Variants
Last September, some insiders stated that the Juniper refresh could also include a seven-seat and even a six-seat versions, depending on the market demand.
Thinking about a new Model Y with seven seats isn’t too far-fetched, since the previous model offered an option with an additional row of two tight seats stored in the trunk floor. Tesla’s lead engineer, Lars Moravy, confirmed the arrival of this model “later this year” during an interview with Jay Leno, shortly after the facelift of the 2026 Model Y in the US.
Market Differences
At that time, insiders mentioned that the six-seat version of the Model Y would be released before the seven-seater, especially in China, where this setup is gaining popularity among families. However, the varying seat numbers in the rumors about the new Model Y can coexist without problem.
Unlike Tesla, which adds extra child seats in the trunk, many Chinese six-seaters, such as the well-liked M4 Yacht Forthing hybrid, typically feature an extended wheelbase. This design includes three rows of two full-size seats each and a foldable child seat in the last row.
Manufacturing Plans
Tesla might be working on a similar setup for the Chinese market. A source known for reliable leaks regarding automakers’ future plans has reported that a 3-row Model Y is set to start production at Giga Shanghai as early as this week.
According to reports, the new Model Y with a third row will also have an extended wheelbase. This indicates that Tesla may be considering a more comfortable option compared to its earlier model, which maintained the same wheelbase regardless of the seating arrangement.
Source:
Link
Tags: Model Y, seven-seat interior, Tesla
April 26, 2025
Octopus Energy Offers Unlimited EV Charging for £30 a Month
Key Takeaways
1. Unlimited charging for electric vehicles in the UK is now available for £30 a month with Octopus Energy’s Intelligent Drive Pack.
2. Charging must occur between 4 a.m. and 11 a.m., but a boost feature in the app allows for charging outside these hours.
3. The plan is estimated to cost about two-fifths of fueling a petrol or diesel vehicle, saving drivers money.
4. The Intelligent Drive Pack is compatible with around 280 electric vehicle brands and does not require battery installations.
5. Octopus Energy aims to provide predictability, flexibility, and value for electric vehicle drivers with this new package.
Electric car owners in the UK can now enjoy unlimited charging for only £30 a month thanks to Octopus Energy’s latest plan. The utility company’s Intelligent Drive Pack will provide all the power that electric vehicles need for “less than what you’d pay for a delightful meal out.”
Charging Times
This plan is designed for one electric vehicle per customer. However, users must charge their cars between 4 a.m. and 11 a.m., which might seem like a minor inconvenience. If charging outside of these hours is necessary, the boost feature in the company’s app allows for that.
Cost Savings
Octopus Energy estimates that the Intelligent Drive Pack costs roughly two-fifths of what it would take to fuel a similar petrol or diesel vehicle, based on the average daily driving distance in the UK, which is 21 miles. This charging option is particularly attractive to electric taxi drivers, who typically drive between 68 to 123 miles daily.
Compatibility and Requirements
The Intelligent Drive Pack works with around 280 electric vehicle brands and requires compatible home charging stations. There’s no need for any battery installations.
Rebecca Dibb-Simkin, Octopus Energy’s Chief Product Officer, stated, “The Intelligent Drive Pack offers a brand new way to save, ideal for drivers seeking predictability, flexibility, and excellent value all in one package. It represents another move towards making electric vehicles the clear choice for everyone.”
Source:
Link
Tags: electric vehicles, Intelligent Drive Pack, Octopus Energy