Tag: Elon Musk

  • Hacked Crosswalk Buttons Mock Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg

    Hacked Crosswalk Buttons Mock Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg

    Key Takeaways

    1. A hacker took control of crosswalk buttons in Silicon Valley, creating AI-generated audio clips mocking Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg.
    2. The audio messages humorously reflect the personalities and controversies surrounding the tech billionaires.
    3. The clips have gained popularity on TikTok, showcasing public reactions to the unexpected messages.
    4. Officials have temporarily disabled the crosswalk buttons while investigating the hacking incident.
    5. The situation highlights the scrutiny tech billionaires face from the public and the potential consequences of their actions.

    Tech billionaires might think they can outsmart tax laws and other systems, but they can’t escape the watchful eye of the public. A recent incident in Silicon Valley, California, highlights this fact. A hacker managed to take control of the crosswalk buttons, making them play audio clips that poke fun at Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg, using their own voices.

    AI Generated Mockery

    These audio clips, created with AI, were designed to tease Musk and Zuckerberg. They’ve been circulating on TikTok, showing the reactions when pedestrians press the crosswalk buttons in Menlo Park and Palo Alto. The button in Menlo Park, where Meta operates, features a message that begins, “Hi this is Mark Zuckerberg, but real ones call me the Zuck. You know its normal to feel uncomfy or even violated as we forcefully insert AI into every facet of your conscious experiences, and I wanna assure you, you don’t need to worry because there’s absolutely nothing you can do to stop it. Anyway, see ya.”

    Messages from Musk

    In Palo Alto, the button dedicated to Elon Musk opens with, “Hi, this is Elon Musk. Welcome to Palo Alto, the home of Tesla engineering. You know they say money can’t buy happiness and… yeah… okay… I guess that’s true. God knows I’ve tried,” followed by, “but it can buy a Cybertruck and that’s pretty sick right?.. right?… F I’m so alone.”

    Another voice announcement in Musk’s style says, “You know people keep saying cancer is bad, but have you tried being a cancer? It’s fing awesome.”

    Investigation Underway

    Due to this unusual incident, the crosswalk button messages in the affected areas have been temporarily disabled as officials look into how this hacking occurred and who might be behind it.

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  • Elon Musk’s Epic Fail in Path of Exile 2: Higher You Fly, Harder You Fall

    Elon Musk’s Epic Fail in Path of Exile 2: Higher You Fly, Harder You Fall

    Key Takeaways

    1. Elon Musk attempted to showcase his gaming skills in Path of Exile 2 but was revealed to have hired someone to play for him.
    2. During a live stream from an airplane using Starlink internet, Musk struggled significantly, failing to progress past the second boss and then losing to the tutorial boss.
    3. The stream, titled “Starlink Airborne Continuity Test,” was meant to demonstrate technology but ended in embarrassment for Musk.
    4. Online reactions, particularly on Reddit, turned the event into a source of mockery, with users questioning Musk’s gaming abilities and suggesting his failures were pre-planned excuses.
    5. Many viewers remain skeptical about Musk’s explanations for his technical difficulties, with some believing he simply lacks gaming skill.

    Tech billionaire, master of PR, and self-claimed expert gamer – Elon Musk attempted to flaunt his skills in Path of Exile 2 during a 90-minute stream earlier this year. With a fully equipped character that he claimed to have leveled up himself, he embarked on a mission to demonstrate his deep knowledge of the game. However, fans were doubtful, and it didn’t take long for the reality to emerge: Musk had actually hired someone else to play on his behalf.

    A New Season, A New Challenge

    Musk made his comeback with the launch of the new Dawn of the Hunt season, intending to create a fresh hardcore character and play Path of Exile 2 live from an airplane using Starlink internet. The stream, named Starlink Airborne Continuity Test, was supposed to showcase technology but turned out to be more of an embarrassing display. Musk’s first character couldn’t even get past the second boss. His second attempt was even worse, as he was defeated by the tutorial boss just moments after starting. Following that, he experienced a sudden disconnection, which he attributed to Starlink problems, although many viewers were skeptical of his reasoning.

    Online Reactions and Mockery

    On Reddit, this entire situation has turned into a source of endless jokes. Musk is often ridiculed as a pretentious novice who confuses PR stunts with genuine talent. The stream’s title – Starlink Continuity Test – has been dissected with sarcastic enthusiasm. Numerous users feel it was a pre-planned excuse, a safety net in case things went awry. If he failed, he could simply blame the technology. Whether anyone truly believes that explanation is another matter. One comment captured the sentiment perfectly:

    “I doubt he actually lost his connection – he’s just not good.”

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  • Tesla Unveils Lowest Cost Battery Per kWh in the Market

    Tesla Unveils Lowest Cost Battery Per kWh in the Market

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla claims to have achieved the lowest cost per kWh for its 4680 battery, primarily in comparison to its own suppliers.
    2. The transition to in-house production of the 4680 battery marked a significant improvement for Tesla, moving away from reliance on suppliers like LG and Panasonic.
    3. Future expectations indicate that significant milestones in battery manufacturing cost efficiency are anticipated by 2025, particularly with the ramp-up of dry battery electrode production.
    4. Tesla’s development of a lithium refinery in the U.S. suggests ongoing cost reductions for the 4680 battery, though the impact of tax credits is still uncertain.
    5. The dry cathode production method’s effects on manufacturing costs and charging performance remain unclear, with some concerns about thermal efficiency compared to competitors.

    Tesla has reached a point where it can produce its cylindrical 4680 battery at the most economical cost per kWh, indeed.

    This statement was initially made by Elon Musk during a company-wide meeting last month, although he didn’t provide many specifics. Recently, it was also verified by Tesla’s Director of Cell Manufacturing, who offered some additional information.

    Clarification on Cost Claims

    It appears that when Elon Musk referred to the lowest cost per kWh, he was talking about Tesla’s battery suppliers, not the cheapest EV battery cell in the entire world. That recognition likely goes to one of the major Chinese battery manufacturers, CATL or BYD. Nevertheless, what Tesla has accomplished with its 4680 battery optimizations is definitely noteworthy.

    The company transitioned from nearly giving up and relying on suppliers like LG or Panasonic for 4680 cells to becoming the producer of the most affordable battery it uses in under a year. During the presentation, Elon Musk humorously mentioned, “Please don’t make us do the anode, too,” alluding to the more cost-effective dry cathode method that Tesla has now mastered and is rapidly increasing production of to further reduce 4680 cell costs per kWh.

    Future Expectations

    Michael Guilfoy, Tesla’s Director of Cell Manufacturing, expressed confidence that “2025 will see significant milestones with fully ramped dry battery electrode manufacturing to provide even more cost efficiency.” He also took a moment to appreciate the team for their outstanding accomplishment.

    Tesla is also developing its own lithium refinery in the United States, which suggests that the costs of the 4680 battery are likely on a downward trajectory. However, it’s still uncertain whether Tesla’s achievement of the lowest battery cost per kWh is due to the production of the 4680 cells or the federal tax credits for domestically made batteries, as outlined in the Inflation Reduction Act.

    Uncertain Impact of Production Methods

    Moreover, it is still ambiguous whether the dry cathode production method will only revolutionize manufacturing costs or if it will also enhance the charging performance for the Cybertruck and other vehicles using the 4680 cells.

    A recent teardown compared the 4680 battery with BYD cells and revealed lower thermal efficiency, which contributed to charging issues that do not match the speed suggested by the Cybertruck’s 800V system.

    Once Tesla scales up the production of the dry 4680 battery cathode, it is expected to release the much-anticipated cheapest Cybertruck RWD version, which has already been listed as an eligible trim on the federal tax credit website.

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  • Tesla to Launch 5,000 Optimus Robots in 2025, Says Elon Musk

    Tesla to Launch 5,000 Optimus Robots in 2025, Says Elon Musk

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla aims to produce a “legion” of Optimus humanoid robots by the end of 2025, with an initial goal of 5,000 units this year.
    2. Elon Musk expressed optimism about reaching production goals, hoping for 10,000 to 12,000 components to create the robots.
    3. Musk referred to the production of 5,000 robots as the size of a Roman legion, highlighting the significance of this milestone.
    4. The Optimus robot has been in development since 2021 and was showcased in a prototype during the Cybercab reveal in October 2024.
    5. Musk considers the Optimus robot to be potentially Tesla’s most important product ever created.

    Tesla is a company with many different divisions, one of which focuses on creating robots. Elon Musk, the CEO, has stated that the company plans to astonish the world with a “legion” of Optimus humanoids before the end of 2025.

    Musk’s Announcement

    The billionaire made this statement during an interactive meeting with staff, which was broadcasted live, allowing the public to prepare for the initial production of the two-legged robot. He mentioned that Tesla aims to gather enough components to produce up to 12,000 units this year, but he would be satisfied with 5,000 Optimuses, or a legion.

    Production Goals

    “This year, we’re hopeful to produce around 5,000 Optimus robots. We’re technically shooting for enough parts to create 10,000, maybe even 12,000, but since it’s a completely new product with entirely new everything, I’ll say we’ll consider it a success if we reach half of the 10,000 goal.

    “Even 5,000 robots, that’s about the size of a Roman legion, which is kind of a creepy thought. Just imagining a whole legion of robots, I’ll be like ‘whoa.’ But I really think we will actually create at least one legion of robots this year, and then perhaps 10 legions next year. It’s a cool way to measure it, you know? Units of legion. So maybe around 50,000 next year.”

    Musk’s Optimism

    Musk is always positive about his company’s innovations. He has called the bipedal robot likely the most significant product ever created.

    The Optimus has been in the works since its introduction in 2021, initially presented with an actor designed to resemble a robot. Tesla showcased a prototype the next year but emphasized it during the Cybercab reveal in October 2024, providing a sneak peek of how it interacts with full-sized robots.

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  • Tesla Excluded from Canadian Auto Show Over Safety Issues

    Tesla Excluded from Canadian Auto Show Over Safety Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla has been excluded from the Vancouver Auto Show due to safety concerns related to potential protests.
    2. The company refused to withdraw from the event despite requests, indicating a firm stance.
    3. Organized protests, such as the “Tesla Takedown,” are encouraging owners to sell their vehicles and investors to divest.
    4. B.C. Hydro has removed Tesla from its electric vehicle rebate program, focusing instead on Canadian-made products.
    5. Tensions between Canada and the U.S. are rising, exacerbated by Elon Musk’s influence on U.S. tariff decisions.

    Tesla is losing its popularity in Canada as the organizers of a well-known auto show have decided to exclude it from their event. Eric Nicholls, the executive director of the Vancouver Auto Show, stated, “The Vancouver Auto Show’s main priority is the safety of everyone involved, including attendees, exhibitors, and staff. This choice will ensure that all guests can focus on enjoying the positive aspects of the event.”

    Exclusion from the Event

    The American automobile manufacturer received notice that it could not take part in this year’s show due to concerns over possible protests against the company and its CEO, Elon Musk. Despite multiple requests for Tesla to withdraw, the company reportedly stood firm and refused to leave the event voluntarily.

    Ongoing Pushback

    In Canada, Tesla has encountered resistance, highlighted by organized “Tesla Takedown” demonstrations. These protests encourage Tesla owners to sell their vehicles and investors to pull out their funds. Additionally, B.C. Hydro, a public utility in British Columbia, has removed Tesla from its list of brands eligible for its electric vehicle rebate program, opting to support Canadian-made products instead.

    Rising Tensions

    The relationship between Canada and the United States is increasingly strained. Musk plays a significant role in the U.S. administration’s decisions regarding tariffs on neighboring countries. Because of this connection, Tesla has experienced instances of vandalism directed at its properties around the world.

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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 Smart TVs: Real Features You Didn’t Expect

    Tesla Smart TVs: Real Features You Didn’t Expect

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla TVs are not related to Elon Musk or Tesla Inc.; they come from Tesla Appliances, a Serbian company.
    2. Misleading online information, including AI-generated content and fake articles, has falsely connected Musk to these TVs.
    3. The scam involves shockingly low prices and deceptive marketing tactics similar to previous scams like the Tesla Space Heater.
    4. Consumers risk receiving untested products or getting scammed out of their money with limited recourse.
    5. Important warning signs for online scams include deals that seem too good to be true, lack of reputable retailers, and absence of credible tech reviews.

    In a recent investigation, Caleb Denison looked into the excitement around what are called Tesla TVs, which many people thought were the newest innovation from Elon Musk and his company, Tesla Inc. However, Denison found out that these TVs are not related to Musk or his electric car company at all. They actually come from Tesla Appliances, a Serbian company that is part of the Comtrade Group. While these televisions are real and mainly sold in Eastern Europe, a surge of misleading online information has tricked many into thinking Musk is involved. Videos made by AI, fake articles, and cleverly edited real footage have contributed to a false story that Tesla is about to shake up the TV market with ultra-affordable, high-tech screens.

    The Scam Unveiled

    The deceptive side comes from websites and social media that wrongly connect Elon Musk to these televisions, often advertising them at shockingly low prices—like $200 for a 75-inch version. This mirrors past scams, such as the so-called Tesla Space Heater, which incorrectly used Musk’s name to sell a low-quality item at a high price. The misleading promotion utilizes AI-generated voices, deepfake videos, and fake reviews to create the illusion that these TVs are revolutionary products from Musk’s Tesla. In truth, buyers face the risk of either getting an unfamiliar, untested item shipped from abroad or, even worse, paying for something and receiving nothing, with limited options to get their money back.

    Cautionary Insights

    Denison’s research serves as a warning about today’s online scams. He points out some important warning signs: if an offer appears too good to be true, it likely is; if a product isn’t sold by trusted retailers, be doubtful; and if reliable tech reviewers aren’t discussing it, question its authenticity. The Tesla TV scam shows how fake AI-generated content and misleading branding can trick unsuspecting consumers. Although Tesla-branded TVs do exist, they are not connected to Elon Musk, and the excitement around them is part of a complex misinformation scheme. This situation highlights the need for checking sources, questioning online assertions, and staying alert against a more sophisticated world of digital trickery.

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  • Tesla to Prosecute Vandals Targeting Supercharger Stations

    Tesla to Prosecute Vandals Targeting Supercharger Stations

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla’s Supercharger stations are facing vandalism and theft, with incidents involving damaged charging cables and graffiti.
    2. The company is taking legal action against vandals and has confirmed they will pursue charges for any such incidents.
    3. Tesla responded quickly to recent vandalism, including graffiti that could harm the company’s image.
    4. To prevent future vandalism, Tesla is marking cables and using special ink that can explode to aid in identifying offenders.
    5. Elon Musk’s role in government initiatives is controversial, impacting his public image alongside Tesla’s brand.

    Tesla’s Supercharger stations are becoming a target for vandals, who are damaging and stealing items like charging cables. The company has decided to take action and will pursue legal charges against those responsible.

    Response to Vandalism

    Tesla reacted on X to a recent incident of vandalism, where user @SnazzyLabs showed photos of a Supercharger that had been defaced with the word “NAZI” and the Swastika. In their post, @SnazzyLabs expressed concern that such actions could hurt Tesla’s image, possibly implicating Elon Musk in the damage to the brand.

    Immediate Action

    The official Tesla charging account, @TeslaCharging, responded promptly, stating that they would remove the graffiti right away. Another user, @lennylegend86, suggested that a security camera might have recorded the person responsible. TeslaCharging confirmed that they would indeed pursue charges for vandalism at the Supercharger locations.

    Legal Measures and Innovations

    To tackle the issues of vandalism and theft at Superchargers, Tesla is implementing legal measures. They are also marking cables and using special ink that can explode to make it simpler to catch those who vandalize their property.

    Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, continues to divide opinion with his active role in the US government. He oversees the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which works on reducing government spending and boosting productivity among federal workers. His initiatives have led to the closure of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the job loss of many civil servants.

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  • Cheapest Tesla Model 2 Spotted as Smaller Camouflaged Model Y

    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.

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    Cheapest Tesla Model 2 Spotted as Smaller Camouflaged Model YCheapest Tesla Model 2 Spotted as Smaller Camouflaged Model YCheapest Tesla Model 2 Spotted as Smaller Camouflaged Model YCheapest Tesla Model 2 Spotted as Smaller Camouflaged Model Y
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  • Elon Musk Admits Fraud in Path of Exile 2 and Diablo 4

    Elon Musk Admits Fraud in Path of Exile 2 and Diablo 4

    Tech mogul Elon Musk has been in the news lately for displaying his gaming talents. He showed off his skills in Path of Exile 2 with a character that was both highly leveled and well-equipped. In addition, he claimed a world record in Diablo 4. Yet, not everyone was impressed with his accomplishments. A lot of people in the gaming community felt he didn’t reach these milestones by himself, and it turns out their doubts were justified.

    Musk’s Admission

    In a conversation on X, highlighted by YouTuber NikoWrex, Musk confessed to sharing accounts and buying in-game items using real money. In the messages that were shared, he explained that to compete on the leaderboards, which are largely dominated by players from Asia, these strategies were almost necessary. Nevertheless, he made it clear that he was the one playing the footage shown in the videos and did not want to take all the credit for his accounts’ success.

    Community Backlash

    The gaming community has reacted very negatively to this news, with many expressing anger and disappointment in the comments section on X and under NikoWrex’s YouTube video. Musk is being accused of violating the fundamental values that the gaming community stands for. Many players feel that a rich figure like him gaining an edge through financial means and outside help goes against the principles of fair play. There is now a call for the developers of both Path of Exile 2 and Diablo 4 to suspend Musk’s accounts, as both account sharing and real-money transactions break the games’ rules.

    Criticism of NikoWrex

    NikoWrex, the YouTuber who revealed this information, is also receiving harsh criticism. He claims that his video was not meant to make money or attract subscribers, but he is seen as biased by many viewers. Some fans believe that NikoWrex, who openly supports Musk, is trying to defend him. This sentiment is evident in the video’s reception, which has seen 1,524 dislikes and only 623 likes.

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