Category: EV vehicles

October 9, 2024
Geico Cites Cybertruck Repair Issues for Insurance Cancellations
Geico has addressed the concerns raised by owners of the Cybertruck regarding denied insurance renewals. The company pointed to the vehicle’s weight and high repair costs as contributing factors, stating that "some customers may have received notices indicating that PPA insurance would not be renewed for this vehicle."
Availability of Insurance
Despite these issues, Geico continues to provide private passenger automobile (PPA) insurance for the Cybertruck. For those who do not meet the criteria for PPA, Geico suggests considering their commercial vehicle policies as an alternative.
Geico offers coverage nationwide for the Tesla Cybertruck. Due to its gross weight and the challenges related to parts availability for repair shops, some customers may have received notifications about the non-renewal of PPA insurance for this specific vehicle. However, insurance policies for the Cybertruck have always been accessible through the commercial insurance division, and PPA is still available. Geico plans to contact any customers who might have gotten a non-renewal notice.
Cost Implications
While it may seem unusual to cite the Cybertruck’s gross weight, which ranges from 8,834 lb (4,007 kg) to 9,169 lb (4,159 kg), as a reason for insurance cancellation, the difficulties in repairs certainly make sense. Geico has pointed out the shortage of Cybertruck parts as a justification for denying policy renewals, and evidence from rental companies with electric vehicle fleets supports this perspective.
Hertz recently held a major sale of its Model 3 fleet, not just because they purchased the vehicles at high prices but also because repairs were slow and their insurance costs were quite high. Research by Gartner indicates that by the time electric vehicle prices match those of gas-powered cars, repair costs and insurance rates are expected to soar.
Future Trends
By 2027, it’s anticipated that the average cost for a serious accident repair involving an EV body and battery will rise by 30%. Consequently, vehicles that experience collisions may be more likely to be written off entirely, as repairing them could exceed their remaining value. Additionally, higher repair costs may lead to increased insurance premiums or even result in insurance companies declining coverage for certain car models.
The high costs of electric vehicle repairs are partly due to the limited availability of replacement parts and the extensive use of gigacasting in manufacturing, including for the Cybertruck. As Tesla’s chief engineer Lars Moravy explains, the front and rear gigacast sections of the Cybertruck act as crush cans with built-in crumple zones. If these sections are damaged in an accident to protect passengers, it leads to significant repair expenses for insurers.
In the UK, insurers have either refused to cover the Model Y or imposed steep premiums due to the high costs associated with repairing its gigacast rear. In response, Tesla redesigned this component and provided it to repair shops at cost, along with tutorials for replacement, to ease the insurers’ concerns.
Insurers’ Reactions
Similar issues may be influencing Geico’s justification for the Cybertruck’s high repair costs in relation to insurance renewals. Other insurers in the US are also recognizing these trends; a prospective Progressive customer received a rejection letter for a new Cybertruck insurance policy after coming from Geico.
Even when Geico does offer PPA insurance for the Cybertruck, the costs can be quite steep. One owner reported being quoted $3,185 for a six-month insurance term.
MunroLive (YT), TorqueNews’
Tags: EV insurance, GEICO, Tesla Cybertruck
October 8, 2024
Tesla Sentry Mode Will No Longer Power Devices
With the new software update version 2024.32.6, Tesla is introducing a feature called Light Pulsing for the Sentry Mode in the refreshed Model S and Model X.
Gentle Warning System
Light Pulsing works by gently blinking the headlights when it senses a potential threat, creating a warning effect by increasing and decreasing the brightness. While this addition is nice, it’s worth noting that other Tesla models have included Light Pulsing since last year, indicating that this might not be the most exciting feature in the latest update.
Power Cutbacks in Sentry Mode
Earlier this year, Tesla’s previous battery head hinted at the company’s efforts to significantly cut down power usage while the vehicle is in theft-prevention mode. A new feature seems to be addressing this concern for almost all models, except for the Cybertruck, by disabling outlet power. Now, the 12V outlets and USB ports in Tesla cars will not function when the vehicle is in Sentry Mode, also cutting off the devices connected to them.
This affects a variety of devices, from portable fridges hooked to the 12V outlets to laptops or phones that were charging in the car. When the Tesla is in Sentry Mode, these items will no longer receive power, which can be quite inconvenient for those relying on a portable fridge to keep their drinks cold.
A Trade-off for Security
Tesla owners still have the option to use Camp Mode to power their devices, but this means the car remains unlocked, which is the opposite of the security that many drivers seek from Sentry Mode. It’s uncertain how effective this power-cutting measure will be in reducing battery drain during Sentry Mode, but reports indicate that Tesla Service teams are already hearing frustration from customers and are relaying this feedback to higher management for review.
Tags: Model S, Sentry Mode, Tesla
October 8, 2024
Food Acids: The Future of Lithium-Ion EV Battery Power
A recent advancement in battery technology from the University of New South Wales (UNSW) aims to tackle two major challenges—energy storage and sustainability. A team of researchers, headed by Professor Neeraj Sharma, has created a lithium-ion battery prototype that swaps out conventional graphite electrodes for materials derived from food acids like tartaric and malic acid, which are often found in fruits and during winemaking.
Eco-Friendly Innovations
This innovative approach not only enhances energy storage capabilities but also offers a greener solution. The significance of using food acids lies in their availability from food waste, which minimizes reliance on harmful substances. By opting for a water-based method, the production process of these batteries becomes cleaner and more sustainable overall.
A Shift in Battery Materials
For a long time, lithium-ion batteries have been essential for energy storage. However, the traditional production methods—like using mined graphite—are expensive and damaging to the environment. By exploring options derived from food waste, the UNSW team is presenting a fascinating alternative. Just think about it—batteries could become more affordable and sustainable in the future, facilitating a smoother shift towards renewable energy worldwide.
Future Prospects
The research is still in progress, with aspirations to increase production capacity and enhance the technology for broader uses. This could enable applications beyond just lithium-ion batteries, including sodium-ion systems. Such developments may influence industries that increasingly depend on energy storage, like electric vehicles and large renewable energy initiatives.
UNSW Newsroom.
Tags: battery technology, Sustainable Energy, UNSW
October 6, 2024
Cheapest Cybertruck Features: Tesla Cuts Foundation Series Items
Tesla has begun to inform early reservation holders of the Cybertruck that they can now set up their vehicles with non-Foundation Series trims, which are $20,000 less expensive.
The entry-level dual-motor Cybertruck AWD is now priced at $79,990, while the tri-motor Cyberbeast is priced just below $100,000. Additionally, the least expensive Cybertruck is eligible for the government’s $7,500 tax credit for commercial vehicles, and it is likely to qualify for the regular private buyer tax credit at the point of sale too.
Features of the Basic Trim
Choosing the $79,990 AWD Cybertruck means that buyers will miss out on many features included in the Foundation Series package, which has a long list of extras and options that enhance the vehicle’s appeal.
For those who own the Foundation Series, all combinations of wheels and interior options are included in the pricing, along with the Cybertruck’s Full Self-Driving option. This feature, which is priced at $7,000 on its own, is still available at the promotional price for any Cybertruck owner, even for those opting for the less expensive AWD non-Foundation Series version.
What’s Missing from the Non-Foundation Series
A closer inspection of the first delivered Cybertruck reveals that Tesla has indeed cut out many aspects of the $20,000 Foundation Series package. They have removed the premium badging, along with other features like truck bed rings, which are now being sold separately as a $40 accessory. The vehicle also lacks the "all-weather" rubber floor mats and the silver tray found in the lower central console, and the steering wheel design has been altered.
Nonetheless, the owner of the most affordable Cybertruck shared the list of standard features for their base AWD model, which does include basic Autopilot. This means that even the sub-$80,000 Cybertruck has Tesla’s cruise control that adjusts its speed based on surrounding traffic, plus Autosteer to maintain lane position. For some drivers, this level of automation is sufficient. The Cybertruck’s FSD option remains available for an additional price, and initial reviews have been quite positive.
Tags: Cybertruck, Full Self-Driving, Tesla
October 5, 2024
Cheapest Model Y Now Offers 5% Longer Range Per Charge
Tesla appears to be quite cautious, or maybe more accurately, realistic, when it comes to estimating the range of its own electric vehicles.
Before the EPA put the base Model Y RWD Long Range through its updated and rigorous range testing, Tesla estimated its least expensive Model Y would have a range of 320 miles on its own.
Now that the EPA has completed testing under its stricter standards, the official range for the Model Y RWD LR is an impressive 337 miles, which is 5.3% more than Tesla’s earlier estimate.
Updated Range Makes Model Y More Attractive
Unsurprisingly, Tesla quickly adjusted the Model Y Long Range RWD‘s official range to reflect this new figure, making this most affordable Model Y not only the cheapest but also the one with the best range of all the versions they offer. It can now be purchased for under $35,000, especially with some inventory discounts.
In Europe, Tesla has been offering a more economical RWD Model Y since spring, boasting an even longer range of 375 miles. However, this figure comes from the local WLTP cycle, which is usually about 10% more lenient than the EPA’s standards. The European version of the 375-mile Model Y RWD LR is equipped with 2170 cells, the same as the AWD version sold in the U.S., qualifying it for the entire federal tax credit.
Challenges with Battery Variants
Tesla faced some difficulties with the base Model 3 RWD that used the Chinese LFP battery, which they have since phased out because it turned out to be pricier than the AWD version that is eligible for the full tax credit.
The Model 3 RWD LR, now the cheapest option, has a range of 363 miles, making it the longest range among Tesla’s two top-selling models. While the highest range still goes to the base Model S, rated for an astounding 402 miles, it is worth noting that it sells in much lower numbers, starting at $74,990.
Recently, the EPA updated its electric vehicle range testing standards, placing greater importance on highway driving efficiency to better reflect real driving habits in America.
So, even though Tesla had to lower some of its official Model Y range estimates, the fact that the base Model Y RWD is now rated at 337 miles on the new EPA cycle is quite remarkable.
Tags: Electric Vehicle Range, EPA testing, Tesla Model Y
October 5, 2024
Tesla Rideshare Drivers Use Self-Driving Mode for Safety
Tesla is set to reveal a fully autonomous Robotaxi and potentially a ride-sharing platform, likely named the Cybercab service, on October 10.
Current Use of Tesla Vehicles
Meanwhile, Uber and Lyft drivers have been taking advantage of their Tesla vehicles as makeshift Robotaxis. They enter their destinations and let the cars navigate themselves.
One unfortunate incident involved a serious crash where the Tesla failed to detect an SUV cutting into its path. The driver intervened only to lessen the impact, resulting in the SUV driver being sent to the hospital.
Driver Experiences and Concerns
Reports from ride-share drivers interviewed by Reuters indicate that around 40% are using Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) feature regularly. While some express dissatisfaction with the $99/month service’s inconsistencies, they acknowledge that it significantly reduces the stress of driving in congested urban areas, allowing them to extend their working hours.
In contrast, some drivers choose not to use FSD when carrying passengers, especially in situations they believe the software struggles with, such as in construction zones or busy airport areas.
Responsibility and Safety
When questioned about these practices, Uber and Lyft distanced themselves, stating that the responsibility for passenger safety falls solely on the driver. They referenced the Tesla FSD manual, which highlights the necessity for constant supervision of the feature.
"Drivers must maintain a safe environment for riders, even if their driving methods don’t break any laws," Uber stated, while Lyft added that "drivers agree to avoid reckless behavior." Despite this, both platforms continue to enhance the experience for drivers using FSD.
Uber has introduced a software update that sends passenger pickup and destination information directly to the Tesla navigation system, simplifying the process for drivers using FSD.
Regulatory Landscape and Future Expectations
Tesla’s self-driving feature is not subjected to the same limitations as fully autonomous services like Waymo or Cruise, as it is classified as a Level 2 driver-assist system. This classification allows Uber and Lyft drivers to use it nearly anywhere, provided they supervise it.
However, some regulation or even a ban on this practice may be on the horizon, as the NHTSA is currently looking into accidents involving FSD.
For the time being, many Uber and Lyft drivers are looking forward to Tesla’s announcements during the Robotaxi event on October 10, eagerly anticipating that FSD 13 will further simplify their work.
You can find the Tesla Universal Wall Connector EV Charger with Dual Plug on Amazon.
Source: Reuters, Project Robotaxi (YT)
Tags: FSD, Tesla Robotaxi, Uber Lyft
October 4, 2024
Sony Launches ISX038 Sensor for RAW and YUV Output in Driving Systems
Sony has introduced the ISX038 sensor, which can output both RAW and YUV images at the same time. This innovation is designed for assistive and autonomous driving systems, helping to lessen the number of camera sensors needed in today’s cars. The sensor works well with the widely-used Mobileye EyeQ 6 system-on-a-chip, which is favored by several car manufacturers, including Porsche, for their advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).
Specifications of the Sensor
This 1/1.7-inch CMOS sensor features 2.1 μm pixels, allowing it to achieve a dynamic range of up to 130 dB in HDR mode. When the anti-LED flicker mode is activated, the dynamic range drops to 106 dB, which is above the 100 dB threshold needed for effective object detection in various lighting conditions, from bright daylight to twilight. The sensor can deliver video at 30 frames per second, with a resolution of 3,857 × 2,177 pixels, equating to 8.39 megapixels. Such high-resolution images are crucial for driver-assistance systems to accurately identify pedestrians and obstacles, helping to stop vehicles before a potential collision.
Benefits of Using One Sensor
By utilizing a single sensor instead of two, the complexity of the systems is significantly reduced, along with the amount of wiring and the electrical load on the vehicle’s electrical systems. In contrast, traditional autonomous driving systems typically require at least four pairs of sensors to achieve a full 360-degree view around a car.
For those interested in night vision, the Sionyx Aurora color night-vision camera is available on Amazon.
Pricing and Availability
The sensor can be acquired for ¥15,000 (approximately $100). It comes in a 192-pin BGA package with dimensions of 11.85 × 8.60 mm (0.47 x 0.34 in.). Data transfer is done using a standard MIPI Camera Serial Interface 2 (CSI-2) output.
Sony Semiconductor Solutions Corporation has made an announcement regarding the release of this pioneering CMOS image sensor for automotive cameras, which is capable of processing and outputting RAW and YUV images simultaneously.
Tags: Automotive Cameras, ISX038, Mobileye EyeQ 6
October 4, 2024
Tesla Launches Affordable Cybertruck Eligible for $7,500 Tax Credit
The Cybertruck’s pricing has now aligned with the Model X in the US, as Tesla begins to send out order invitations for its non-Foundation Series models, just like they said would happen in Q4.
New Pricing for Cybertruck
For reservation holders who didn’t choose the high-end Foundation Series trim, the starting price for the AWD Cybertruck is $79,990. This is a significant change for those looking to get their hands on Tesla’s latest electric pickup.
Additionally, it appears that the Cybertruck qualifies for a $7,500 commercial vehicle tax credit from the government, unlike other Tesla models which are available for point-of-sale dealer deductions.
Production Increase at Giga Texas
Tesla has been increasing production of the Cybertruck at Giga Texas, with drone footage showing large parking areas filled with these custom electric trucks. It seems the Cybertruck is now set to make a real impact on Tesla’s shipment figures for Q4, following the Foundation Series units produced last quarter that slightly exceeded analyst expectations.
What Tesla is offering now to early reservation holders is pretty much the same dual-motor AWD or tri-motor Cyberbeast they’ve been selling up until now, but without the exclusive $20,000 Foundation Series package. This means the Cybertruck AWD can be had for just $79,990 instead of the previous price of around $100,000, while the Cyberbeast is priced just under $100,000.
Will Fans Convert Reservations?
It is still unclear if fans of the Cybertruck will actually go ahead and make a purchase, especially since the Foundation Series package includes a wide range of upgrades and accessories, as well as the Cybertruck’s Full Self-Driving option, which is valued at $7,000 for reservation holders.
At the new price of $79,990, the Cybertruck should also be eligible for the federal point-of-sale tax savings similar to the Model X, not just the commercial tax credit the IRS currently has it listed under. Tesla just revealed these more affordable trims, so it might not be long before the tax credit list is updated for individual buyers, which could lower the price to $72,490 and boost sales.
Tesla also plans to roll out an even cheaper RWD version next year, likely when they start manufacturing all Cybertrucks using the cost-effective 4680 batteries produced via the dry cathode method, which they expect to achieve by July.
Sawyer Merritt (X)
Tags: Cybertruck, Model X, Tesla
October 4, 2024
Xiaomi SU7 Sales Hit 16,000 in September, Aiming for 20,000 in October
Amid growing rivalry in the worldwide electric vehicle market, Xiaomi’s recent results are attracting notable interest. On October 1, the firm revealed that its sales for September exceeded 10,000 units, achieving this for four straight months. This achievement lays a strong groundwork for the company’s goal of delivering 20,000 units in October, as mentioned by Lei Jun, the founder of Xiaomi Group, during a live show on CCTV.
Aspirational Goals
Since its debut in April, the Xiaomi SU7 has established a position in the market, going head-to-head with Tesla’s Model 3 and Model Y. The SU7 is particularly appealing due to its lower price and advanced technology. Reports suggest that deliveries in September were between 15,000 and 16,000 units, showing an increase in consumer awareness and confidence in the Xiaomi brand.
If the goal for October is achieved, the weekly delivery rate could hit 5,000 units, which puts pressure on the production lines. Yet, Xiaomi’s ability to adapt and strategize has turned potential issues into advantages.
Production Improvements
To boost production capacity, Xiaomi has introduced multiple enhancements in its factory setup and manufacturing techniques. From intelligent manufacturing to automated systems, the continuous technological improvements have greatly increased production efficiency. The integration of AI technologies has optimized every stage of the production process, ensuring consistent product quality while minimizing labor expenses.
User Experience
The SU7’s carefully designed interiors and cutting-edge multimedia and AI driving assistance systems provide excellent comfort for users. Reports from owners highlight outstanding performance in navigation and voice assistant capabilities. As Xiaomi moves forward in increasing production and broadening its retail footprint, the SU7 is well-positioned to enhance its competitiveness against established brands like Tesla. With a target of 20,000 units for October, Xiaomi is making notable progress in the electric vehicle sector.
Tags: electric vehicles, Tesla, Xiaomi SU7
October 3, 2024
Biden Administration Spends $2 Billion on EV Tax Credits for Teslas
The U.S. Treasury Department has revealed the total amount of electric vehicle subsidies it has provided since the start of this year.
Monthly Expenditures
Previous estimates suggested that the government was spending around $200 million each month on EV tax credits, and those figures were quite accurate. Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act from the White House administration, American consumers have received at least $2 billion in subsidies for purchasing electric cars. The Treasury refers to these as “upfront savings,” as the tax credit is now taken directly off the retail price by dealers.
Savings Breakdown
Janet Yellen from the Treasury noted that the "Biden-Harris Administration’s Inflation Reduction Act is lowering upfront costs for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, saving Americans more than $2 billion since January." These savings have benefited approximately 250,000 new clean vehicles, each receiving a $7,500 federal tax credit, along with 50,000 used cars that qualify for a $4,000 subsidy.
Tesla’s Position
Recently, Elon Musk stated that Tesla doesn’t rely on these tax credits to sell more vehicles; however, the company did lower the price of its cheapest Model 3 since it didn’t meet the qualification criteria. Additionally, the popular Model Y SUV likely wouldn‘t have sold as well if it weren’t for the federal $7,500 incentive that makes its pricing competitive with gas-powered vehicles.
The federal EV tax credit is set to continue until 2032, and it will be interesting to see how much the Treasury ultimately spends on this initiative, especially with the variety of electric car models and battery factories expected to qualify for subsidies in the upcoming years.
Future Earnings
Tesla is poised to gain the most from this program. With its lineup of electric vehicles, 4680 batteries, Supercharger network, and energy storage solutions, it’s projected to receive at least $41 billion from the government throughout the duration of the subsidy program.
Tags: Electric Vehicle Subsidies, Inflation Reduction Act, Tesla