Tag: Model 3

  • Tesla Prices Rise CA$9,000 in Canada Amid Cybertruck and Model 3 Changes

    Tesla Prices Rise CA$9,000 in Canada Amid Cybertruck and Model 3 Changes

    Tesla has raised the prices of its vehicles by as much as $9,000 CAD (about $6,189 USD) following the recent announcement of a 25% tariff by the Trump administration over the weekend.

    In response, Canada imposed its own import tariffs, prompting Tesla to implement the price hikes it had initially warned about on January 22.

    Price Changes on Model 3 and Model Y

    For example, the price for the new Model 3 Performance has increased to $79,990 in Canada, marking a 9% rise from its previous price, which suggest that Tesla might be absorbing some of the extra costs due to the tariff hike.

    The Model Y saw a smaller increase of $4,000 for the older model. It remains unclear if the price for the upcoming 2026 Model Y Juniper Launch Series will also rise from the current $84,990 as its release date approaches in Canada.

    Promotions and Discounts

    In other news, Tesla is kicking off its quarterly promotions for the Model 3 and Cybertruck earlier than usual, aiming to boost sales before the 2026 Model Y becomes available.

    For instance, the referral credit for buying a new Model 3 has been increased five times, from $500 to $2,500. Additionally, monthly lease prices for both the Model 3 and Cybertruck have been reduced by as much as 17%.

    The dual-motor Cybertruck can now be leased for $749/month, down from $899/month. The base Model 3 Long Range RWD is now available for $249/month, a decrease from the previous $299/month lease price.

    Tax Credits and Special Offers

    These leases still qualify for the $7,500 federal tax credit. To help clear out the Cybertrucks sitting in inventory, Tesla is also offering complimentary XPEL wraps for orders made in the U.S. or Canada before the end of March.

    Source:
    Link


  • Tesla Superchargers Boost Cold Charging Speed for Model Y LFP Batteries

    Tesla Superchargers Boost Cold Charging Speed for Model Y LFP Batteries

    Tesla is set to launch a battery heating feature at its V3 and V4 Supercharger stations. This enhancement will enable standard range Model 3 and Model Y RWD versions equipped with LFP batteries to charge up to four times quicker during winter months.

    Performance in Cold Weather

    Typically, LFP cells, like those found in portable power stations, do not perform as well in low temperatures. This might be a reason why Tesla has prioritized the Supercharger battery heating option specifically for the standard range Model Y and Model 3.

    Innovative Heating Method

    The new heating service differs from the usual preconditioning process that Tesla vehicles undergo when heading to a Supercharger. Instead of slowly warming up the battery pack, the Supercharger transmits ripple AC current straight through the individual LFP battery cells, effectively heating them during cold weather conditions.

    “This is made possible by Tesla’s vertical integration and some of our brilliant engineers,” says Max de Zegher from Tesla. He notes that this new feature might remain exclusive to vehicles that utilize CATL LFP batteries.

    Speeding Up Charging Times

    The Supercharger battery heating option can allow a standard range Model Y to get back on the road up to four times faster than previously, addressing the main issue faced by LFP batteries. Elon Musk has previously discussed the slower charging speeds of Teslas with LFP batteries in extreme conditions:

    In cold weather, LFP batteries charge at a slower rate compared to NCA batteries, and their range diminishes more than that of NCA batteries as well. It’s important to remember that both types of batteries perform poorly in cold weather, but LFP batteries are more affected. While on a road trip to a Supercharger, the vehicle will prewarm its batteries, which can help alleviate some of the slower charging issues. However, this means you may spend an additional six or seven minutes at the Supercharger during winter with LFP batteries. This could be a concern if you intend to rely on your vehicle for frequent cold weather supercharging, though it won’t affect you if you charge your car at home overnight.

    Tesla’s LFP battery supplier, CATL, now has new LFP cells that do not experience slow charging in cold conditions. However, these specific cells are not used in the standard range Model 3 or Model Y. In the US, Tesla is primarily selling only long-range options, as its vehicles with Chinese LFP cells do not qualify for federal tax incentives.

    Source: Link

  • Judge Rejects Tesla’s Bid to Dismiss ‘Phantom Braking’ Lawsuit

    Judge Rejects Tesla’s Bid to Dismiss ‘Phantom Braking’ Lawsuit

    Tesla, a leading name in self-driving technology, is facing its share of unhappy customers. In 2023, the well-known car maker was named in a class-action lawsuit in a Chicago district court. Judge Georgia Alexakis, overseeing the case, has decided that it will proceed despite Tesla’s efforts to dismiss it.

    Lawsuit Details

    The case, titled Joshua Santiago et al. v. Tesla, claims that the company did not inform potential buyers about a “phantom braking” problem, which they have known about since 2015. The two individuals who filed the lawsuit argue that Tesla’s forward collision detection system gives false alerts when there is no actual danger, which can lead to the vehicle unexpectedly slowing down or stopping altogether.

    Court Rulings

    While Tesla was unable to get the entire lawsuit dismissed, Judge Alexakis did agree to remove some parts of it. She threw out claims that Tesla’s insurance division charged drivers too much for premiums based on the supposed braking issue. The argument that the false collision alerts resulted in higher insurance costs for drivers did not persuade the judge.

    Tesla claims they were unaware of the alleged problem until one of the plaintiffs purchased their Model 3 in 2021.

    Future of Tesla’s Technology

    However, Judge Alexakis recognized that the lawsuit has shown that potential buyers ought to be able to rely on the information presented on Tesla’s website, supporting claims of Tesla’s failure to disclose safety-related information.

    Tesla has ambitious goals for its self-driving capabilities. The company recently introduced the Cybercab and Robovan, which received a lot of attention. The Cybercab is a future taxi designed for two passengers without a steering wheel or pedals. The Robovan is a larger automated vehicle meant for public transport.

    Tesla currently provides Autopilot with every new model, featuring basic options like Cruise Control and Autosteer. The Full Self-Driving (Supervised) option includes more advanced functions such as Navigate on Autopilot, Auto Lane Change, Autopark, and Smart Summon, available through either a subscription or a one-time payment.

    Source: Link

  • Tesla Offers Free Supercharging and FSD Promo to Boost Sales

    Tesla Offers Free Supercharging and FSD Promo to Boost Sales

    Tesla is offering complimentary Supercharging and Full Self-Driving (FSD) trials for anyone who buys a vehicle from its inventory by the year’s end.

    Customers who take delivery of a new inventory car between November 14 and December 31 will enjoy three months of free access to the Full Self-Driving (Supervised) feature, along with free Supercharging during the same timeframe.

    Restrictions on the Offer

    It’s important to note that this offer cannot be used later or transferred to different accounts or vehicles. Buyers who have already paid for the Full Self-Driving (Supervised) feature might be disappointed with this new promotion.

    Sadly, not all used vehicles in Tesla’s inventory qualify for the free Supercharging and FSD trials, and business account orders are also excluded.

    Promotional Efforts and Sales Boost

    Tesla has rolled out numerous promotions to boost its shipment figures in the final quarter of the year, making it challenging to track them all. However, these efforts could lead to record deliveries right before the anticipated release of the Model Y Juniper.

    The most sought-after offer among the current Model 3 and Model Y deals is the 0% APR financing, which no longer requires customers to buy FSD as a condition, a change made at the start of the month.

    Long-Term Strategies

    Additionally, Tesla has introduced free FSD transfers, a benefit that seems to be becoming a regular offering. This has been in place for four straight quarters, even though Elon Musk has indicated that it’s a temporary promotion, emphasizing the need for Tesla to “make money somehow.”

    Tesla is also keen on providing free FSD trials, as it aims to attract customers towards buying or subscribing to the service. Furthermore, the company needs to log many miles driven with FSD to show regulators its strong safety track record, especially as it prepares for the launch of the Cybercab/Robotaxi ride-sharing service.

    New Inventory Highlights

    For the first time, Tesla has Cybertrucks available in its inventory, but only the free Supercharging offer will be of value to future owners. All these are Foundation Series units, which come with FSD included at no additional cost.

    Source: Link

  • Tesla Offers 0% APR Financing on Home Chargers and Cybertruck Gear

    Tesla Offers 0% APR Financing on Home Chargers and Cybertruck Gear

    After launching its Model 3 and Model Y with 0% APR financing, Tesla is expanding that offer to its accessory and parts shop as well.

    New Financing Options

    The Tesla Shop has partnered with Klarna to allow customers to make four equal monthly payments without any interest on almost all products available in the store. This means you can purchase Tesla’s $550 universal home charger for just $137.50 each month, or get the newly available Cybertruck wiper blade for $18.75 monthly.

    Replacement Parts for Cybertruck Owners

    The Gigawiper is a distinct feature of the Cybertruck that many owners found difficult to replace without going through Tesla’s service centers. However, as Cybertrucks become more common on roads and a year has passed since their debut, Tesla has added replacement Gigawipers to its store.

    Klarna’s payment options are widely recognized across many online retailers, and the fintech company is so prominent that it is looking to file for an IPO in the US soon.

    Interest Rates and Payment Plans

    If you prefer to extend your payment beyond the four installments, be prepared for a hefty interest charge, as Klarna needs to profit somehow. However, as long as you stick to the four-month plan, you won’t incur any interest.

    For pricier items in the Tesla Shop, like the $5,000 Model Y Clear Paint Protection Film, Klarna will apply an interest rate based on your credit score from the start, since these loans aren’t available for the four equal payment method.

    Source: Link


  • Tesla Blocks Door Opening if Bikes or Cars Are in Blind Spot

    Tesla Blocks Door Opening if Bikes or Cars Are in Blind Spot

    With the forthcoming 2024.44 software update currently being tested by Tesla staff, a new safety feature is on its way for users in the United States.

    New Feature Introduction

    This new feature, known as Blind Spot Warning While Parked, is already available in a different version in China. It will soon be accessible to North American Tesla drivers ahead of the major holiday software update. When this blind spot detection function is ready, the Tesla will evaluate the driver’s intention to open a door and exit the vehicle if it detects someone speeding by the rear left corner, an area that can be hard to see in mirrors without additional accessories like the Model Y blind spot mirror.

    Importance of Safety

    Anyone who has ever suddenly opened a car door while biking past parked cars knows just how crucial awareness of blind spots can be. There are numerous incidents where moving cars have damaged the doors of distracted drivers or those who were unable to react in time to someone coming from the blind spot. This is exactly why Tesla plans to launch its Blind Spot Warning While Parked feature in the US soon, which appears to include both audio and visual alerts.

    If a driver attempts to open a door when an object is approaching from the blind spot—like a cyclist or another vehicle—the blind spot warning light will flash, an audio alert will sound, and the door won’t open upon the first button press.

    A Thoughtful Approach

    While it may seem like the system is second-guessing the driver’s actions, in truth, many will likely be thankful for the added safety in moments where a split-second decision could prevent a bike from crashing into the door. Tesla simply recommends waiting for the moving object to pass before pressing the door button again to stop the warnings and open the door.

    Interestingly, the Blind Spot Warning Light mentioned in Tesla’s release notes is only available on its newest models, like the Model 3 Highland refresh and the Cybertruck. The forthcoming Model Y Juniper facelift may also include this feature next to the front speaker, but for now, it’s exclusive to Tesla’s 2024 models.

    At this point, it remains uncertain whether the Blind Spot Warning While Parked feature will be available solely for the Cybertruck and Model 3 refresh or if it will also extend to the Model Y, albeit without the visual alert.

  • Robotaxi Remains Tesla’s Cheapest Car Amid Model 3, Y Price Cuts

    Robotaxi Remains Tesla’s Cheapest Car Amid Model 3, Y Price Cuts

    Tesla has decided to abandon the idea of the Model 2, which was intended to be its most budget-friendly vehicle, with a starting price of around $25,000 after incentives.

    Instead of launching this vehicle in 2026 as earlier speculated, Tesla will now focus on introducing the fully autonomous Robotaxi, which will fall within that same price bracket.

    Elon Musk’s Insights

    During the Q3 earnings call, Elon Musk stated that offering a Model 2 would be “pointless” since the company is moving forward with the autonomous Robotaxi, which he mentioned would be priced below $30,000. However, it isn’t clear if this figure refers to the price before or after incentives. Musk mentioned, “it’ll cost on the order of roughly $25,000, so it is a $25,000 car,” implying it might be after federal tax credits and other incentives.

    Earlier in the call, he indicated that the Robotaxi’s price would be “with incentive sub-30k, which is kind of a key threshold.” This means that a $25,000 price point fits well within that range, making both statements appear to align with each other.

    Comparison to Current Models

    Moreover, Tesla currently has a vehicle that is somewhat under $30,000; the base Model 3 RWD is priced at $29,990 after “estimated incentives of $7,500 and 5-year gas savings of $5,000.” Since similar incentives will apply to the Robotaxi, Tesla would need to price it significantly lower than the Model 3, making the $25,000 price tag more reasonable. Given that the Robotaxi will feature only two seats and a compact 40 kWh battery offering a 200-mile range, its production costs are expected to be less than those of a Model 3, making a post-incentive price of $25,000 quite feasible.

    Elon also mentioned that the manufacturing speed of the Robotaxi/Cybercab will surpass anything currently available, which will further help to cut down its per-unit costs:

    “It’s especially not just a revolutionary vehicle design, but a revolution in vehicle manufacturing that is also coming with the Cybercab. The cycle time, like, the, the units per hour of the Cybercab line is – like, this is just really something special. I mean, this is probably a half order of magnitude better than other car manufacturing lines. Like not in the same league is what I’m saying.”

    Future Strategies

    This is why, rather than introducing an inexpensive Model 2, Tesla will aim to reduce the prices of its popular vehicles such as the Model Y and Model 3. The anticipated $25,000-$30,000 price range will be filled by the Robotaxi.

    Lars Moravy, Tesla’s engineering head, also expressed that the company’s “mission has always been to lower the cost of our vehicles to increase the adoption of sustainable energy and transport,” emphasizing that “part of that is lowering the cost for current vehicles.”

    To achieve this, Tesla aims to produce the most affordable EV batteries in the US next year, which could lead to lower prices for the Model 3 and Model Y. Reports indicate that Tesla is working on four different 4680 battery designs using a cost-saving dry cathode method for the Cybertruck, Model Y, Model 3, and ultimately, the Robotaxi, ensuring they remain competitive in pricing.

  • Tesla Model Y 0% APR Financing No FSD Purchase Needed

    Tesla Model Y 0% APR Financing No FSD Purchase Needed

    Tesla has recently launched an incredible deal on the Model Y, presenting a 0% APR loan rate financing option that doesn’t require buyers to purchase the FSD feature.

    Monthly Payment Details

    This new offer brings the monthly payments for the Model Y RWD down to $581, with an initial payment of 8% or $3,999 for a 60-month term after applying the federal tax credit. For those considering a longer commitment, the 72-month option remains at a 0.99% APR rate, while the 84-month term is set at 2.99%.

    Best Offer Yet

    This makes the 5-year financing rate at zero percent interest the best deal Tesla has ever provided for its top-selling vehicle. However, there’s also a good offer on the Model 3 that buyers may find appealing.

    Tesla’s most affordable car is now also available with 0% APR financing, but only for the shorter 36-month term.

    Promotional Rate for Model 3

    The company is offering a 0% APR promotional rate for qualified buyers with excellent credit who order a new Model 3 starting October 21, 2024. This offer is limited to a 36-month term and requires a minimum down payment of 20% ($7,500 Federal tax credit, if applicable). The monthly payment is $27.78 for every $1,000 financed over 36 months. It’s important to note that not everyone will qualify for this promotion, which can change or end without notice, and it cannot be applied retroactively. Used vehicles and enterprise sales are not included.

    Thus, the base Model 3 RWD, which boasts an impressive 363-mile range, can now be obtained for an $899 monthly payment over three years with the same $3,999 down.

    Model Y Financing Terms

    Tesla is reserving its most favorable financing terms for the Model Y, as it remains the company’s best-selling vehicle. Plus, the anticipated Juniper facelift for the SUV seems to be coming soon. Tesla is reportedly starting trial production of the Model Y Juniper at its Gigafactory in Shanghai today, with plans to release the facelift in the next quarter, at least in China.

    This could be the reason behind the recent shift from exploring higher APR rates, zero down payments, or FSD purchase requirements to introducing a straightforward 0% financing rate for the Model Y without a specified expiration deadline.

    Given that this is among the best Model Y deals Tesla has ever made, it may lead to record quarterly shipment figures, even as the release of the Juniper refresh approaches.

  • Older Teslas with FSD HW3: Ready for Robotaxi Service

    Older Teslas with FSD HW3: Ready for Robotaxi Service

    According to Lars Moravy, who is the chief engineer at Tesla, even older models like the 2018 Model 3 will be able to experience the autonomous features of the new Robotaxi.

    Robotaxi Specs and Features

    The recently revealed Robotaxi, which seats two, will utilize Tesla’s FSD software powered by the forthcoming AI5, or Hardware 5.0, featuring advanced 3nm computers, cameras, and sensors. This will enable the vehicle to navigate to its destination without needing a steering wheel or pedals.

    Participation in Cybercab Service

    Moreover, all other Tesla models, including the Cybertruck, will also participate in the Cybercab ride-share service. Tesla plans to offer this platform for a fee, allowing owners to rent their vehicles to the Cybercab fleet for any duration they choose, whenever they want.

    Interestingly, it appears that even Tesla cars equipped with the older HW3 can also serve as Robotaxis, contrary to what some might expect. Lars Moravy confirmed this during a casual interview at the "We, Robot" event, stating that any HW3 Tesla is ready to operate as a Robotaxi.

    Upcoming FSD Updates

    In Tesla’s latest roadmap for September and October, there was one unexpected item: the FSD 13 release. Since the FSD 12.5 versions are just now being rolled out to HW3 vehicles, it will be intriguing to see what Tesla has planned with such a significant version jump.

    It’s possible that the FSD 13 update will introduce the Cybercab service framework for the Robotaxi as well as the other vehicles in its fleet. Tesla will need to present this software to regulators if it wishes to obtain permission for unsupervised FSD operations in Texas and California next year, as hinted by Elon Musk.

    Regardless, those with HW3 will certainly be able to utilize FSD 13 too, but it remains unclear if there will be any differences in performance, similar to how FSD 12.5 operates on either Hardware 4.0 or 3.0 systems.

    Lars Moravy (Tesla) via Kim Java (YT)

  • Affordable Model Y Puddle Lights with High-Def Tesla Logo

    Affordable Model Y Puddle Lights with High-Def Tesla Logo

    After a successful introduction in China, Tesla has now brought an affordable and eye-catching accessory to the US: car door puddle lights.

    Affordable Pricing and Easy Installation

    These new Model 3 and Model Y Projection Lights are available for only $65, making them a competitive option compared to other Tesla accessories. Installing them is straightforward; just remove the current driver and passenger door lights and replace them with the new $65 lights.

    Although a 4-pack of similar Model Y projection lights is available for half the price on Amazon, they are not official Tesla products. The official puddle lights from Tesla project a high-definition logo onto the ground whenever the doors are opened.

    Unique Features of Tesla’s Puddle Lights

    According to Tesla, "Model Y Projection Lights project a high-definition Tesla wordmark onto the ground every time you open the door of your Model Y." This set includes two projection lights designed to replace the standard door lights of both the Model 3 and Model Y. The old lights can be easily removed with a flathead screwdriver, and the new puddle lights can be installed by connecting the existing cable.

    Tesla has also introduced an ambient light retrofit for the Model Y in China, which pairs well with the new Projection Lights accessory. This RGB retrofit, featuring 256 colors, costs $180 in China. However, it requires modifications to the textile dashboard of the updated 2023 Model Y, meaning the wood grain dashboard must be swapped out.

    Simple Replacement Process

    Fortunately, no such modifications are needed for the new official Model Y Projection Lights, as they simply replace the existing lights at the bottom of the driver and passenger doors.


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