Tag: Model Y

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
April 9, 2025
Tesla to Fix Model Y 12V and USB Outlets in Sentry Mode
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla is introducing an Accessory Power mode to keep 12V sockets powered overnight or during use.
2. The previous solution for battery drain in Sentry Mode cut power to 12V outlets, affecting accessory use.
3. Sentry Mode was found to drain 14% of battery capacity in 24 hours, prompting optimization of video processing.
4. The new update will include a “Keep Accessory Power On” option, allowing continuous power until battery drops below 20%.
5. The Accessory Power feature will work independently of Sentry Mode, preventing previous phantom battery drain issues.
Tesla owners who have had to leave their devices charging in their vehicles overnight or run a small fridge will be pleased to hear that an upcoming Accessory Power mode will restore power to their 12V sockets.
Previous Battery Drain Issues
Last year, Tesla addressed a significant battery drain problem linked to Sentry Mode, which it has now activated automatically to safeguard against vandalism. This was part of the 2024.32.6 software update. However, the solution it implemented was quite simplistic; it cut off power to the 12V outlets and USB ports when no one was in the car while in Sentry Mode. This less than smart fix meant that many Model Y owners couldn’t keep accessories like the Acopower TesFridge working overnight or charge laptops and tablets in their vehicles without power by morning.
Confusing Power Management
The way Tesla tackled the phantom battery drain issue in Sentry Mode, which drained 14% of the battery pack’s capacity in just 24 hours, was a bit puzzling. It was partly because of the Vision cameras recording during Sentry Mode, so Tesla optimized the video processing algorithms to significantly lower their power usage. However, for devices and accessories that needed to stay plugged into the Model Y while the driver was away, the company simply cut off power to the 12V and USB sockets. This rough approach is set to be improved with the new Accessory Power mode.
Exciting Update Ahead
With the upcoming Spring Update, Tesla is expected to introduce a new “Controls > Charging” menu option that allows users to select “Keep Accessory Power On.” This will ensure that all 12V sockets and USB ports receive continuous power until the vehicle’s battery level drops below 20%.
The best part is that the new Accessory Power feature won’t require Sentry Mode to function, avoiding the risk of the phantom battery drain issues cropping up again.
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Tags: Accessory Power, Model Y, Tesla
April 2, 2025
Tesla boosts 0% APR financing on Model Y, top-selling EV in China
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla sold 43,370 units of the updated Model Y in March, becoming the top seller of electric vehicles in China.
2. The company recorded 23,000 new Model Y sales in one week, marking its third-highest sales week in China.
3. Tesla increased the price of the AWD Model Y by around $1,380 due to longer delivery times, while the RWD version had shorter wait times.
4. A 0% APR financing offer has been extended to all trims of the Model Y in China until the end of April, aiming to sustain sales momentum.
5. Tesla’s sales in Europe may face challenges, with upcoming Q1 delivery figures expected to show weaker performance outside of China.
Tesla has emerged as the leading seller of electric vehicles in China, having delivered an impressive 43,370 units of the updated Model Y in March.
Strong Sales Week
In just the past week, Tesla recorded sales of 23,000 new Model Y cars, based on insurance registration data, making it their third-highest sales week since they began operations in China. To maintain this strong sales trend, Tesla has broadened its 0% APR financing offer for the RWD Model Y facelift, now including the non-Launch Series AWD variant, which has been available in China since February.
Delivery Times and Pricing Adjustments
Normally, Tesla’s sales mix is about 80% RWD models in that market. However, last month saw longer delivery times for the AWD Model Y, prompting a price increase of around $1,380 to balance demand with production output from Giga Shanghai. At that time, the RWD trim had a delivery window of just 2-4 weeks, while the AWD orders were facing wait times of 6 to 10 weeks. With the introduction of the 0% APR financing for the RWD version, Tesla successfully boosted orders, allowing them to reduce the AWD delivery timeframe to 3-5 weeks.
Financing Offers Extended
Even though the pricing for the dual-motor Model Y facelift remains unchanged, Tesla has now applied the same 0% APR financing offer to the AWD model too. This financing deal for all trims of the Model Y in China will be available until the end of April, set for a 36-month payment term. Tesla seems eager to keep the sales momentum rolling into the second quarter, despite having already served many early adopters of the new Model Y.
In contrast, Tesla’s sales in Europe might be facing challenges, possibly linked to Elon Musk’s political activities. However, the upcoming quarter could clarify if this is indeed the reason for the dip in demand, or if potential buyers are simply waiting for the new Model Y refresh to hit the market.
Regardless of the cause, Tesla is scheduled to release its Q1 delivery figures on April 2nd, and those numbers are anticipated to be less impressive outside of China.
Source:
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Tags: 0% APR Financing, Model Y, Tesla
March 29, 2025
Model Y HW3 vs HW4 Crash Test: Why Tesla Upgrades FSD Computers
Key Takeaways
1. Mark Rober’s test showed Tesla’s Autopilot performance negatively compared to a Lexus with LiDAR, but inconsistencies led to further independent testing.
2. The 2022 Model Y with Hardware 3.0 failed to detect a fake wall, while the 2024 Model Y with Hardware 4.0 successfully stopped before the obstacle.
3. A similar successful test was performed with the Cybertruck, also equipped with Hardware 4.0.
4. Tesla plans to begin unsupervised FSD testing in Austin, Texas, starting in June, with necessary permits obtained.
5. Tesla is considering a retrofit program for older vehicles with Hardware 3.0 if unsupervised FSD cannot be successfully implemented on those models.
Recently, a test by Mark Rober compared a Tesla using Autopilot with a Lexus autonomous driving system, which is renowned for its use of LiDAR. This test didn’t show Tesla’s camera-only approach in a good light.
Inconsistent Results
However, Rober’s setup had so many inconsistencies that a group of independent testers decided to put a Tesla through similar tests to see if they could confirm or counter his findings. In a recent round of testing, a Model Y equipped with the new Hardware 4.0 FSD was tested against an older Model Y that had the Hardware 3.0 version, which is still much more common on roads in the US.
Different Models, Different Outcomes
The 2022 Model Y was fitted with the HW3 package and used the latest version of Tesla’s FSD software designed for that hardware, while the 2024 Model Y had the upgraded HW4, also referred to as AI4 by Tesla. The HW3 Model Y did indeed fail the test; it didn’t detect the wall that was painted to look like a road and drove straight through it. The testers ran the test twice, having to brake manually, and once allowed the 2022 Model Y to crash through the fake wall while in FSD mode.
The 2024 Model Y, equipped with the HW4’s high-resolution cameras and a new FSD computer, successfully detected the fake wall every time and stopped the vehicle before it reached the obstacle while in self-driving mode. A similar test was performed with the Cybertruck, which also has the HW4 setup, and it too did not collide with the wall.
Upcoming Unsupervised Testing
Tesla is getting ready to test its unsupervised FSD mode, which won’t need a driver to be present or paying attention, starting this June in Austin, Texas. The autonomous driving team recently announced that they obtained the necessary permit for pilot program testing by showing city officials in a Cybercab.
“Thanks to Austin City & Texas DOT for hosting & supporting our efforts to unlock safe & low-cost premium point-to-point electric transport,” the team stated, confirming that the June launch for unsupervised FSD is on track. However, Tesla hasn’t yet figured out how to make the newest FSD version work on older vehicles with the HW3 setup, and it may also struggle to implement unsupervised FSD successfully on those models. Elon Musk promised that if that happens, Tesla will upgrade HW4 computers into eligible HW3 vehicles at their own expense.
The Wile E. Coyote wall test indicates that a HW3 computer retrofit program may become necessary in the future along the fake painted road.
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Tags: FSD, Model Y, Tesla
March 24, 2025
Tesla Model Y Discounts Up to $9,200 Ahead of Juniper Orders
Key Takeaways
1. The 2026 Model Y Juniper refresh is currently available only as a $60,000 Launch Series AWD trim with Full Self-Driving (FSD) included.
2. In China and Europe, Tesla has removed the Launch Series and now offers more affordable RWD and AWD trims, with the lowest-priced RWD starting at about $36,350.
3. Tesla may soon launch non-Launch Series AWD and RWD trims in the US, as inventory of the current model has been discounted by up to $9,200.
4. A new Model Y Performance unit is priced at $36,270, and Tesla is clearing stock to prepare for increased orders for the Juniper refresh.
5. Texas customers still have access to various discounted Model Y units, though the Performance model may not be available in the Juniper refresh until later in the fall.
The 2026 Model Y Juniper refresh is currently available only as a $60,000 Launch Series AWD trim, which includes the Full Self-Driving (FSD) option along with special badging and accessories.
Sales in Different Regions
Initially, the new Model Y was introduced in China and Europe with the same Launch Series edition. However, in both these markets, Tesla has removed the Launch Series and is now offering both RWD and AWD trims instead. These options are significantly more affordable compared to the Launch Series, which has the $8,000 FSD service included in its package. For instance, in China, the lowest-priced RWD Model Y Juniper facelift starts at about $36,350, and Tesla is also providing a 0% APR financing option to incentivize buyers.
Upcoming Trims in the US
If the current inventory is any signal, Tesla might be preparing to launch the non-Launch Series AWD and RWD Model Y Juniper refresh trims in the US shortly. The company has also lowered the price of the Model Y by as much as $9,200 for its inventory demo units of the previous model. Meanwhile, a brand-new Model Y Performance unit made this year is now priced at $36,270, not considering any referral discounts.
Previously, discounts on the legacy Model Y were about $1,000 less. Tesla seems to want to clear its stock completely to make space for the expected surge in orders for the Model Y Juniper refresh. This strategy appears to be effective, as new Model Y units in Tesla’s inventory are becoming scarce, with some regions, like Washington, DC, running out of all but used Teslas.
Availability in Texas
On the other hand, people in Texas still have various discounted Model Y units available, including the aforementioned Performance model, which might not be included in the Juniper refresh until later in the fall.
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Tags: Juniper refresh, Model Y, Tesla
March 18, 2025
Tesla Model Y: 0% APR Financing & Price Hike in China
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla is moving away from frequent price changes and “price wars,” aiming for stable pricing for the Model Y.
2. The new Model Y is considered to offer “exceptional value for money” at its current price.
3. Tesla has recently increased the price of the AWD Model Y in China for the first time, indicating a shift in strategy.
4. To support the sales of the RWD Model Y, Tesla is offering a 0% APR financing option and a free FSD trial.
5. The company is balancing sales by raising prices on higher-demand models while promoting financing and insurance offers for popular trims.
Tesla might be changing its approach to pricing for the Model Y, according to its Country Director for Australia and New Zealand, who mentioned that the company will “not engage in price wars” anymore.
Thom Drew remarked, “We have a reputation for quickly adjusting our prices in the past years,” but he believes they have found a solid pricing point now. The new Model Y is seen as “exceptional value for money” at its current price.
Price Changes in Recent Years
It’s an understatement to say Tesla’s pricing has seen drastic fluctuations over the last few years, with some prices plummeting by over a third. This has led to feelings of regret among those who purchased during the highest pricing periods.
The era of price cuts might be behind Tesla, as evidenced by the recent increase in the price of the AWD Model Y in China—its first launch market—by around $1,380 rather than a decrease.
Current Pricing Details
This price increase applies only to the dual-motor non-Launch Series edition available since February 26th, while the lowest-priced RWD Model Y refresh remains at $36,430. Interestingly, Tesla typically sells about 80% of its RWD Model Y units in that market. The price hike for the more expensive version is surprising, especially since it already has longer delivery times ranging from 6 to 10 weeks compared to the RWD Model Y.
To boost sales for the new Model Y RWD in China, which may not be performing as expected, Tesla has introduced a 0% APR financing option for the base trim, which has a quicker lead time of only 2 to 4 weeks. This is the very first 0% APR offer for the 2026 Juniper facelift and is available for orders placed by April 30.
Sales Strategy Insights
By raising the price of the higher-demand AWD Model Y and offering 0% APR financing for the popular RWD trim, Tesla may be trying to balance their sales figures in line with their initial production capacity planning.
Besides the financing offer for a term of 36 months, Tesla is also providing a free FSD trial with each purchase and running a subsidized insurance promotion, indicating their commitment to the crucial Chinese market.
Source:
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Tags: Model Y, price strategy, Tesla