Tag: Model Y

April 25, 2025
Tesla Offers Free FSD Transfers and $2,000 Off New Model Y
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla has not introduced 0% APR financing for the Model Y in the US, unlike in China, but is running promotions to boost shipments after Q1 earnings disappointment.
2. New Model Y buyers in the US will receive a complimentary FSD transfer from their previous Tesla, applicable to various models.
3. The Model Y Launch Series and Cybertruck Foundation Series are excluded from the FSD transfer offer.
4. Tesla offers a $2,000 discount for older Model Y owners considering the Juniper facelift, with specific conditions for eligibility.
5. The free FSD transfer promotion has been offered in four of the last five quarters and does not apply in Europe.
Tesla has not yet introduced 0% APR financing for the new Model Y in the US, similar to what it did in China, but is currently running a new promotion to boost lagging shipments after disappointing Q1 earnings.
Free FSD Transfer for New Buyers
While buyers of the new Model Y in the US won’t enjoy zero interest rates on their payments, they will receive a complimentary FSD transfer from their previous Tesla. This applies to owners of any model, including the Model 3, older Model Y, Model S, Model X, or even the Cybertruck.
Exclusions in Promotions
However, the Model Y Launch Series and Cybertruck Foundation Series editions are not included in this offer, as they originally came with FSD as part of their expensive packages.
Legacy Model Y owners can pass on the FSD option they previously purchased to their new Model Y. Additionally, to encourage owners of older models who are undecided, Tesla is providing a $2,000 discount on the price of the Juniper facelift.
Important Details to Note
Tesla states that the price reduction is aimed at owners who purchased its first SUV early on, although the specific production cutoff date isn’t clear. Therefore, those interested in this promotion will need to wait for an official announcement from Tesla, which can be viewed below.
“Used vehicles are not included,” Tesla warns, adding that “the promotional credit must be linked to an order under the same Tesla account as your current Model Y by June 30, 2025, or it will be lost.”
Tesla appears to be making free FSD transfers a regular offering, as this promotion has been available in four of the last five quarters and is now back on the Tesla deals list for the US and Canada. However, this does not apply to Europe, where customers who paid for FSD still cannot use it.
On another note, the market value of a used legacy Model Y has decreased since the introduction of the new Juniper refresh. Consequently, the trade-in value Tesla gains can be offset by the free FSD transfer offer without causing significant impact to its core business.
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Tags: FSD transfer, Model Y, Tesla
April 24, 2025
Tesla’s New Model Y: First Robotaxi with Rideshare App Preview
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla’s Robotaxi service will launch with the Model Y, not the more affordable Cybercab or Model 3.
2. The autonomous Model Y will use the unsupervised Full Self-Driving (FSD) feature without changes to the existing vehicle design.
3. Updated Model Y cars will drive directly to customers’ homes once assembled, starting in Austin in June.
4. The rideshare app for the Robotaxi service is being tested with staff drivers, logging over 15,000 miles in Austin and San Francisco.
5. Tesla plans to expand the Robotaxi service to multiple U.S. cities by the end of this year.
Tesla is set to launch its Robotaxi rideshare service, starting with the widely popular Model Y rather than its more cost-effective options like the Cybercab or Model 3.
Details on the Model Y
According to Elon Musk, the only distinction between the upcoming autonomous Model Y vehicles and the current ones is that they will operate using the unsupervised version of the Full Self-Driving (FSD) feature on public streets. “To be clear, the Model Y that we are talking about in being autonomous in Austin in June are the Model Ys we make currently, there’s no change to it,” Musk stated.
Right now, the freshly manufactured Model Y cars do employ unsupervised FSD, but this is limited to transporting them from the factory to the designated parking areas where they await pickup by delivery trucks.
Future Plans for the Model Y
Musk assured that soon the Model Y, alongside other new Tesla models equipped with the HW4/AI4 camera systems and computers, will be able to drive straight to customers’ homes once they are assembled and configured.
He reiterated that the updated Model Y is “currently on track to be able to do paid rides fully autonomously in Austin in June and then in many other cities in the US by the end of this year.”
Testing the Rideshare App
The refreshed Model Y is Tesla’s latest offering, making it an ideal candidate to be the first vehicle in its robotaxi initiative, for which the Tesla AI team recently showcased a ride-hailing app in a video.
The team is testing the app and refining the new rideshare features using the 2026 Model Y with staff drivers, traveling back and forth in Austin and San Francisco, and has already logged over 15,000 miles on the robotaxi platform.
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Tags: Model Y, Robotaxi, Tesla
April 24, 2025
Cheapest Tesla Under $299/Month: Design May Disappoint
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla is developing a budget-friendly Model 2, possibly as a smaller version of the Model Y or Model 3 with cloth seats.
2. Operating expenses are rising due to AI projects and the development of various vehicle programs, indicating multiple upcoming affordable models.
3. The design of the Model 2 may include cost-saving measures, such as simpler features and materials to reduce production costs.
4. Tesla aims to offer the lowest possible monthly ownership costs for its upcoming affordable models, targeting prices below the current $299 lease.
5. The company is focused on delivering competitive products while maintaining flexibility within existing product lines, rather than creating entirely new models.
The much-discussed budget-friendly Tesla Model 2 might actually be a smaller version of the Model Y or a Model 3 featuring cloth seats. This information was shared during a recent earnings call where both Elon Musk and Lars Moravy, Tesla’s chief engineer, confirmed that the company is working on cheaper models. They are currently fine-tuning some last-minute details to enable a launch later this year.
Financial Insights
Tesla’s current CFO, Vaibhav Taneja, mentioned that “our operating expenses keep rising sequentially,” which is largely due to AI projects like Optimus, along with the development costs for various vehicle programs such as Cybercabs, SEMA, and more affordable model options. The use of the plural “models” when discussing Tesla’s forthcoming budget-friendly cars suggests that the rumors about releasing significantly cheaper versions of the Model Y and Model 3 might hold some truth, especially after the recent debut of a more affordable RWD Cybertruck.
Design Expectations
Initially, the Model 2 was anticipated to be a compact version of the Model Y, and that concept seems to be still on the table. A smaller SUV prototype was even seen covered in camouflage during a drone flight over Giga Texas recently. The strategy behind releasing the most affordable Cybertruck could also provide clues on how Tesla plans to design the lower-cost versions of the Model Y and Model 3.
Currently, cloth seats appear to be Tesla’s primary method for reducing production costs. Eliminating additional design features like light bars or unique wheel designs also helps save money. For the RWD Cybertruck, Tesla removed the air suspension and the automated truck bed cover. However, the changes made for a $10,000 price drop may not seem very valuable, so fingers crossed that the cost-saving measures for the cheaper Model Y will be more thoughtful.
Future Goals
Tesla aims to achieve the lowest possible monthly ownership costs with its upcoming affordable models, which “will look similar to our current offerings,” as stated by the CFO. “Our vision of delivering the best product at a competitive price is key for us, and that’s why we’re dedicated to launching these cheaper models soon,” he added.
“Monthly payments are the biggest point of difference for our vehicles,” noted Moravy, emphasizing that Tesla is working on models with “the lowest price in the market.” This suggests that even more affordable Tesla options could be on the horizon by 2025.
At present, the least expensive Tesla lease starts at $299 per month, indicating that the company might target a price point below that for their future budget-friendly model. However, Tesla’s chief engineer warned that “the flexibility we have regarding design and form factors is limited to our existing product lines rather than creating entirely new ones.”
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Tags: affordable Tesla models, Model Y, Tesla Model 2
April 21, 2025
Camouflaged Tesla Model Y Seen in India Before Launch
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla is nearing the launch of the Model Y and Model 3 in India, with ongoing certification processes.
2. A Model Y was spotted undergoing public testing in Mumbai, indicating active preparations for the Indian market.
3. Tesla has secured showroom locations near Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai and Delhi.
4. The company is hiring for various roles in India, signaling increased operational activity ahead of launch.
5. Tesla views India as a key market for recovery following a downturn in global sales.
Keen observers have recently spotted signs that Tesla is getting closer to launching its products in India. A Reddit user named shameelck shared a picture of a covered Tesla Model Y parked outside a store, but didn’t mention where exactly the sighting took place.
Certification Progress
Tesla is currently going through the necessary certification processes to sell the Model Y and Model 3 in the world’s most populous country. In March 2025, the company submitted its eighth test permit.
Public Testing in Mumbai
On the platform X (previously known as Twitter), user @ashishpol86 shared two brief videos of a fast-moving Model Y on a highway in Mumbai. The electric SUV was also camouflaged, as Tesla conducts public testing for its vehicles.
Showroom Developments
Reports indicate that Tesla has secured locations for showrooms close to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in both Mumbai and Delhi. The company is hiring for roles in vehicle service, sales, customer support, and operations. This surge in pre-launch activities follows a meeting between CEO Elon Musk and Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi earlier this year.
India represents a significant opportunity for Tesla as it seeks to recover from a downturn in global sales. The company plans to start delivering the Cybertruck in the Middle East by the end of 2025, although the truck is still prohibited in certain European nations.
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Tags: India, Model Y, Tesla
April 19, 2025
Affordable Tesla Model Y and Model 3 with Basic Specs Launching Soon
Key Takeaways
1. The launch of Tesla’s budget-friendly Model Y in the U.S. has been delayed, with production now aimed for 2026.
2. Elon Musk hinted at an affordable Tesla model for the U.S. in early 2024, but it’s unclear if it’s the Model Y or a new model like the Model 2.
3. The budget Model Y, referred to as E41, will be a simplified version of the Juniper refresh, potentially lacking premium features.
4. The starting price for the economical Model Y is expected to be around $40,000, with production costs estimated to be 20% lower than the current model.
5. Tesla is likely to reveal more details about the Model Y delays during its upcoming earnings announcement.
After the introduction of the more affordable and smaller Model Y, there are reports that the Juniper refresh in China has been pushed back to 2026. It seems that a similar situation might be unfolding for the U.S. model of Tesla’s popular budget-friendly vehicle.
Though insiders did not confirm if the delay is related to supply chain challenges arising from the tariff conflicts with the White House, they suggest that Tesla’s timeline for the smaller, less expensive version of the Model Y in the U.S. has been pushed back. It appears that Tesla is now aiming to manufacture 250,000 units of this model in 2026.
Elon Musk’s Comments on the Release
During the last quarterly earnings call, Elon Musk stated that there is still an affordable Tesla model planned for a U.S. launch in the first half of the year. However, it remains unclear whether he was referring to the more affordable Model Y or another model akin to the Model 2, which has been speculated to look like a smaller version of the Y. Reports indicate that the launch window has shifted to around the holiday season or early next year, coinciding with the launch in China.
Details on the Cheaper Model Y
The budget-friendly Model Y, internally referred to as E41, is expected to be a significantly simplified version of the Juniper refresh. Tesla may replicate their strategy with the Cybertruck, offering a basic RWD model that features cloth seating, lacks air suspension, and is missing many other premium features.
In the past, a similar approach was taken with the Model 3 in Mexico, although those vehicles maintained the same dimensions as the original Model 3 or Cybertruck. Elon Musk has previously stated that the new budget model, once called Model 2, will indeed be “smaller, to be certain.”
Pricing and Production Costs
This concept could easily extend to a downsized, simplified Model Y that Tesla plans to sell for considerably less than the Juniper refresh AWD model, which currently retails for over $50,000. The production expenses for the economical Model Y E41 are believed to be 20% lower, potentially allowing it to be priced starting at $40,000 before any federal tax incentives—making it an attractive option for buyers.
The production strategy for this economical Model Y, likely to feature a single-motor RWD setup, is still uncertain, with the launch leaning towards the holiday quarter or early next year. This timeframe is also when Tesla is expected to unveil a more basic Model 3, which could become its least expensive vehicle.
Tesla is set to announce earnings next week and may provide additional information regarding the delays surrounding the smaller, more affordable Model Y.
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Tags: Affordable electric vehicle, Model Y, Tesla
April 17, 2025
Tesla California Electric Car Sales Drop, Market Share Below 50%
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla’s market share in California fell below 50% for the first time, dropping to 43.9% in Q1 2025.
2. The company saw a 15% decrease in new EV registrations, while competitors experienced a 35% increase.
3. Over 42,000 Tesla vehicles were sold in California, with the Model Y and Model S being the most popular.
4. The Cybertruck sold 2,282 units, ranking among the top 10 best-selling electric vehicles.
5. California is crucial for EV sales, accounting for about one-third of all electric car sales in the U.S.
Things are not appearing as optimistic as they typically do for Tesla in California. The company’s hold on the electric vehicle market in the state is diminishing, with its market share falling below 50 percent for the first time in the first quarter of 2025.
Tesla’s Market Decline
Data from the California New Car Dealers Association shows that Tesla made up just 43.9 percent of EV sales during the first three months of 2025, a significant drop from 55.5 percent in the same timeframe last year.
In addition, Tesla experienced a 15 percent decrease in new EV registrations, while other manufacturers enjoyed a 35 percent increase. This decline is notable, especially as it occurred during a time when many Americans were eager to buy cars ahead of upcoming auto tariffs from the current administration.
Sales Figures
Californians purchased over 42,000 Tesla vehicles, primarily the Model Y and Model S. The Cybertruck, with 2,282 units sold, remains among the top 10 best-selling electric vehicles.
The car dealer association attributes this downturn to CEO Elon Musk’s recent political engagements and the aging lineup of Tesla’s products.
Importance of California
California plays a vital role for electric vehicle manufacturers, comprising roughly one-third of all electric car sales in the United States. Until 2021, it was also the location of Tesla’s headquarters before Musk relocated it to Texas.
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Tags: California EV market, Model Y, Tesla
April 14, 2025
Tesla Launches Unsupervised FSD Drives with Colorful Lighting
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla’s unsupervised Full Self-Driving (FSD) system has exceeded 50,000 miles of operation without human intervention.
2. The FSD technology utilizes advanced AI4 (Hardware 4.0) for navigation in complex environments, including interactions with pedestrians and other vehicles.
3. Public testing of the unsupervised FSD is set to begin in Austin in June, with a focus on refining algorithms through extensive mileage logging.
4. The Cybertruck faces unique challenges, such as navigating a steep incline and may feature multicolored ambient lighting, although its standard inclusion is uncertain.
5. Tesla plans to integrate FSD algorithms into older models but may need to retrofit them with new hardware, while also aiming to launch the Cybercab robotaxi fleet next year amidst regulatory challenges.
Tesla has surpassed 50,000 miles of operation using its so-called unsupervised Full Self-Driving (FSD) system, which does not need any human intervention.
Driving in the Factory
These drives have taken place at Tesla’s factories, featuring the new Model Y and Cybertruck, which autonomously navigate from production lines to delivery parking areas. The self-driving vehicles utilize the latest AI4 (Hardware 4.0) technology, which includes advanced cameras and computing power to maneuver through complicated road scenarios involving signs, construction, and both pedestrian and vehicle traffic. Additionally, they can communicate with each other to prevent accidents.
Upcoming Public Testing
The pilot testing of the unsupervised FSD on public roads is set to start in Austin this upcoming June. Tesla aims to log as many miles as possible to refine its algorithms ahead of this significant rollout. The test drives at Giga Texas and Fremont involve the Model Y, traveling about a mile and a half “on a road shared with pedestrians, cars, semi trucks, construction equipment & more,” as stated by the Tesla AI team.
Cybertruck’s Unique Challenge
The Cybertruck is tasked with an even more exciting driverless mission, as it maneuvers up a 17% incline to exit a special Cybertunnel located beneath one of the busiest highways in the United States, continuing on to its delivery lot. Videos showcasing the Cybertruck and Model Y operating with unsupervised FSD and without a human present highlight a potentially new feature of the autonomous technology. Tesla seems to have chosen to equip its FSD vehicles with multicolored ambient lighting, though it remains uncertain if this is for promotional video syncing or if it will be a standard feature for vehicles using unsupervised FSD.
Future Plans and Retrofits
Regardless, Tesla is expected to kick off its public road pilot testing with HW4 vehicles like the Model Y and Cybertruck that it manages. These vehicles will likely still have Tesla personnel inside as a backup and to expedite regulatory approval. The Tesla AI team is also attempting to integrate the unsupervised FSD algorithms into older models equipped with HW3 cameras and systems. However, Elon Musk suggested that this may not be feasible, indicating that Tesla might need to retrofit older cars, whose owners wish to participate in its robotaxi service, with HW4 kits at no cost. There may also be a need to install colored LED interior lighting.
The Cybercab, envisioned as the core of the robotaxi fleet, could join the lineup sometime next year. However, Tesla faces challenges in obtaining the necessary autonomous driving permits to operate vehicles without pedals or a steering wheel on public roads. To navigate this hurdle, Tesla is currently using Model 3 test vehicles fitted with the Cybercab camera setup to assess how the positioning will perform while driving autonomously outside the factory.
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Tags: Cybertruck, Model Y, Tesla
April 13, 2025
Tesla Spring Update: Model Y Gains Adaptive Headlights & 12V Outlets
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla’s 2025 Spring Release software update introduces adaptive high beams for Model Y and Model 3 vehicles in the US, enhancing nighttime visibility.
2. Owners can check for matrix headlights by navigating to Controls > Lights > Adaptive Headlights after the update is installed.
3. The adaptive headlights adjust brightness based on oncoming traffic and road conditions, improving visibility while reducing glare.
4. Other features in the update include powered outlets and a customizable trunk lid opening height based on location.
5. The update extends adaptive headlights to older Model Y models, which are still prevalent on the roads today.
Tesla has begun the rollout of its major 2025 Spring Release software update, which finally introduces the long-awaited adaptive high beams feature for vehicles equipped with matrix headlights in the United States.
This feature has already been available in other parts of the world, and new Model Y and Model 3 owners have been enjoying it. Now, Tesla is extending adaptive headlights to the older Model Y, which still makes up a significant portion of the cars on the road today.
How to Check for Matrix Headlights
To see if your Model Y is equipped with matrix headlights, it’s quite easy. After the Spring Update is installed, users can navigate to Controls > Lights > Adaptive Headlights to enable the feature as needed.
In the case of the Model 3, Tesla notes that “when traffic is approaching and the high beam headlights are on, individual pixels of the high beam headlights dim to reduce glare.”
Enhanced Visibility at Night
The update also mentions that “when the low beam headlights are on, and you are driving on a highway, the headlights adjust to illuminate more of the road.” Furthermore, it highlights that “the headlights also adjust to curves on the road ahead to provide greater visibility at night.”
As for the legacy Model Y and other vehicles with matrix headlights in the US, Tesla simply states, “by detecting other road users, and selectively dimming individual pixels of the headlight, your high beams stay on more often for greater visibility at night.” It doesn’t mention the adaptive cornering feature, leaving uncertainty on whether it will be included or come in a later update.
Other Features in the Update
In addition to the adaptive headlights, there are a variety of other new features available for the US and Canada in this Spring Release software update.
While the standout updates include the adaptive high beams and powered outlets, a surprising addition is the ability to remember the trunk lid opening height based on the location of the Model Y—a much-requested feature.
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Tags: Adaptive Headlights, Model Y, Tesla
April 12, 2025
Tesla Switches to Free FSD for Referrals, Retains Loyalty Discounts
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla is offering three months of free Full Self-Driving (Supervised) feature with the purchase of a new Model Y, Model 3, Model S/X, or Cybertruck using a referral link.
2. Referral link recipients can get $400 off their solar installation, while the referrer now earns $250 in Tesla credits, reduced from $500.
3. The referral bonus structure has changed, focusing on increasing users for the Full Self-Driving feature rather than offering $1,000 off vehicles.
4. Tesla plans to roll out unsupervised Full Self-Driving testing in June 2026 in Austin, Texas, using a fleet of Model Y, Model 3, and potentially Cybertruck vehicles.
5. Tesla maintains loyalty discounts up to $1,000 for Model S/X purchases and $500 for Model Y/Model 3 purchases for returning Tesla owners.
Tesla is offering a special deal where customers can enjoy three months of the Full Self-Driving (Supervised) feature for free if they buy a new Model Y, Model 3, Model S/X, or a Cybertruck using a referral link.
Referral Discounts for Solar Projects
In addition, friends, family, or anyone else who receives a referral link can get $400 off their solar installation using Tesla products. However, the person who refers them now earns only $250 in Tesla credits, down from the previous $500.
Changes to Referral Bonuses
In the past, buyers who used a referral link received $1,000 off their vehicles or services. Now, Tesla is focusing on attracting more users to its Full Self-Driving (Supervised) feature to gather data and increase its appeal, leading to a change in the referral bonus structure.
Tesla plans to roll out the unsupervised FSD version this June in Austin, Texas, where it will serve as a testing site for its forthcoming robotaxi service. The aim is to connect more drivers to FSD, which could lead to a larger number of cars available on the platform when it eventually opens up to vehicles not owned by Tesla.
Future Plans for FSD Testing
This rollout is expected to occur in early 2026. The unsupervised FSD testing will initially use a fleet of Model Y and Model 3 cars, along with the recently launched Cybertruck in its most affordable RWD variant. The fleet could later include the Cybercab if it secures the needed permits for public road use.
Currently, Tesla is maintaining its loyalty discount, which can still reach up to $1,000 for customers who buy a Model S or Model X using the same account after owning another Tesla. Those buying the new Model Y or Model 3 and who have previously owned a Tesla will receive a $500 loyalty discount.
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Tags: Full Self-Driving, Model Y, Tesla
April 11, 2025
First Look: New Model Y in Diamond Black with Gemstone Finish
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla introduced a new color option called Diamond Black for the standard Model Y, priced at an additional $1,500.
2. The Diamond Black color features a unique finish with sparkle and a refined flake appearance, distinct from previous black options.
3. Real-life footage of the Diamond Black Model Y shows its intricate finish when light hits it, enhancing its visual appeal.
4. The Diamond Black option can be paired with a $1,000 Black and White interior, creating a stylish combination.
5. The white interior option sold out quickly during the Launch Series, suggesting high demand for the new Diamond Black and Black and White combination.
When Tesla released the standard version of the new Model Y in the US, which is not part of the pricey Launch Series package, they introduced a unique and exclusive color called Diamond Black.
The Diamond Black color option is available for an additional $1,500, and it is described by Tesla as a “deep jet black with variations of sparkle and refined flake appearance,” according to their detailed description of the new hue for the Model Y.
Captured in Action
Instead of just promotional images of the Diamond Black Model Y, the color has now been filmed up close in a real-life setting. A person recorded the 2026 Model Y in its new Diamond Black paint while it was charging at the public showroom of Tesla’s Fremont factory, sharing both a close-up video and a farther away photo.
The footage of the Diamond Black shade shows a much more intricate finish compared to Tesla’s previous black colors, which were simpler and didn’t show much difference whether viewed from a distance or up close. The new color really does shine like diamond facets when light hits it directly, but more video will be needed to fully see the “refined flake appearance” that Tesla claims it has.
Interior Options
The $1,500 Diamond Black option can also be combined with a $1,000 Black and White interior choice, creating a stylish yet unconventional look. Tesla has also shared several new high-resolution images of the 2026 Model Y, including night shots that highlight the Diamond Black color and the updated interior.
While the Model Y was still in its Launch Series phase, the white interior option quickly sold out. It’s possible that the trendy new combination of Diamond Black with Black and White interior may face a similar demand and run out soon.
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Tags: Diamond Black, Model Y, Tesla