Tag: Model Y

February 16, 2025
Tesla Cars in the US Receive Long-Awaited Matrix Headlights
Key Takeaways
1. Introduction of Matrix Headlights: Tesla is set to introduce Matrix Headlights in the United States, enhancing nighttime driving safety.
2. Functionality: Matrix Headlights adjust brightness using external cameras to prevent glare for other drivers while illuminating essential road areas for Tesla drivers.
3. First Model to Receive Update: The Tesla Model Y will be the first to get Matrix Headlights through a software update.
4. Other Models to Follow: Tesla Model 3 and Model X will also receive the feature, provided they have the necessary hardware.
5. Regulatory Challenges: Tesla faced regulatory hurdles before launching Matrix Headlights in the U.S., despite its existing use in Europe as Adaptive Lighting.
US Tesla buyers can finally rejoice as their wait for a highly anticipated feature is nearing its conclusion. The electric vehicle manufacturer is set to introduce Matrix Headlights in the United States.
What are Matrix Headlights?
Matrix Headlights, often referred to as adaptive headlights or pixel lighting, serve a valuable purpose during night-time or in dim conditions. They adjust the headlight brightness by utilizing external cameras that identify which pixels to dim, preventing glare for other drivers. This technology enhances the visibility of oncoming vehicles while allowing Tesla drivers to maintain full illumination of crucial road areas.
Rollout of the Feature
In a recent response on X, Lars Moravy, who is the Vice President of Vehicle Engineering, announced that the new Tesla Model Y will be the first to receive Matrix Headlights through a software update. Other models, including Model 3 and Model X, are set to follow, as long as they have the necessary hardware for the feature.
This technology has already been in use on Tesla vehicles across Europe, where it’s branded as Adaptive Lighting. However, Tesla had to navigate regulatory hurdles before it could launch the feature in the United States.
Source:
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Tags: matrix headlights, Model Y, Tesla
February 15, 2025
Tesla Unlocks Model Y Radar Features with Free Hardware Upgrade
Key Takeaways
1. The new Model Y Juniper features a 4D cabin radar for advanced occupancy detection, measuring factors like size, height, weight, and heart rate.
2. A recent software update (2025.2.6) enables occupancy detection in older Model Y vehicles that have had dormant cabin radar since November 2021.
3. Tesla clarified that all new 2025 Model Ys come standard with an updated first-row cabin sensing system using cabin radar, which older models also possess the hardware for.
4. The advanced 4D radar in the new Model Y can monitor back seat occupancy and respond to changes in heart rate, potentially taking actions like opening windows or contacting emergency services.
5. Tesla is offering “hardware replacement” service invitations for older units, allowing owners to install the new software update, though it remains unclear if they will receive the new 4D cabin radar.
The new Model Y Juniper facelift features a 4D cabin radar, which Tesla’s chief engineer Lars Moravy explained in an interview with Jay Leno is designed for advanced occupancy detection. This includes measurements such as “size, height, weight, heart rate.”
Software Update for Older Models
With the recent 2025.2.6 software update, Tesla is enabling occupancy detection in older Model Y vehicles that have had a dormant cabin radar since November 2021. The 2022 Model Y and newer versions, along with the refreshed Model 3 and Cybertruck, all have a radar positioned under the headliner just above the rearview mirror that has not been utilized until now.
Clarification for Owners
Tesla has stated that the “first-row cabin sensing system has been updated to use cabin radar, which is now standard in all new 2025 Model Ys.” They also reassured owners that their “Model Y was built pre-equipped with the necessary hardware” to avoid confusion about the sudden presence of radar in their cars.
Lars Moravy indicated that Tesla has integrated radar into the seat sensors to assess passenger size, which aids in deciding which airbags to activate during a crash, among other safety improvements.
Limitations of Older Units
The cabin radar in older Model Y units will only function as part of a “first-row cabin sensing system.” In contrast, the new Model Y Juniper is equipped with a 4D radar that also monitors back seat occupancy. This advanced system can detect the breathing and pulse rates of passengers and respond accordingly. For instance, if a child or pet is left in the back seat and their heart rate increases, the Model Y facelift may automatically open a window or adjust the A/C and alert the driver via the Tesla app. In extreme cases, it can even contact emergency services.
It remains uncertain which features will be available for older Model Y units, as currently, Tesla is only enabling radar for occupancy detection and dynamic airbag deployment, which will also apply to the Model 3 and Cybertruck.
Hardware Replacement Invitations
While the older units might not support pulse detection or second-row occupancy like the new Model Y Juniper, Tesla has begun sending surprise “hardware replacement” service invitations. These notifications read “Cabin Radar Replacement,” and Tesla offers a free swap at a service center if the owner wants to download and install the “Spring 2025 software update.”
Whether this indicates that some older Model Y vehicles will receive the new 4D cabin radar with the Juniper facelift or if their current units are simply considered defective, affecting the software update, is still unclear.
Source:
Link
Tags: cabin radar, Model Y, Tesla
February 12, 2025
Tesla’s 2024 Production and Deliveries Drop for First Time in Years
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla experienced a 4% reduction in vehicle production in 2024, the first decline since 2020, with a notable drop in models Y and 3.
2. Total vehicle production for the year was 1.77 million, down from 1.84 million in 2023, despite a 33% increase in production of other models.
3. Deliveries fell by 1%, largely due to a 2% decrease in models Y and 3, but were partially offset by a 33% increase in other model deliveries.
4. Financial results showed a 1% rise in total revenues, despite a 6% decline in automotive revenues, aided by growth in energy generation and storage.
5. Tesla is planning to boost truck production in late 2025, launching new budget-friendly vehicles, and has started production at its Shanghai megafactory for large energy storage batteries.
In 2024, Tesla saw a 4% reduction in vehicle production, largely due to a 5% fall in the output of models Y and 3, as per the financial documents. This was the first decrease in production since 2020. On the other hand, production of other models rose significantly, by 33% throughout the year. Tesla managed to produce 1.77 million vehicles, a decline from 1.84 million in 2023.
Deliveries and Trends
Alongside this production dip, deliveries also fell by 1%, with the largest drop occurring in models Y and 3, which saw a decrease of 2%. However, these declines were somewhat balanced out by the increased production and delivery of other models, which grew by 33% and 24%, respectively. Still, their overall effect on total numbers was not as significant as that of models Y and 3.
Financial Overview
The financial outcomes revealed a 1% rise in total revenues, even with a 6% decrease in automotive revenues. The reports indicate that growth in energy generation and storage, along with other services, helped to mitigate the impact on the main segment.
Tesla noted that the lowered selling prices for its models S, 3, X, and Y had a negative effect on revenues, particularly in the last quarter. Likewise, higher operating costs due to AI initiatives and R&D projects have influenced the company’s profitability.
Future Plans
Nonetheless, the company is advancing in the development of semifactories in the US, aiming to boost truck production starting in late 2025. For the upcoming year, Tesla anticipates launching new vehicles, including some more budget-friendly options.
As the energy generation and storage sector expands, Tesla has commenced production at its Shanghai megafactory, which has been under construction since May 2024. This facility is expected to manufacture around 10,000 units of Megapack, a very large commercial energy storage battery capable of storing over 3.9 megawatt-hours (MWh) of energy.
Source:
Link
Tags: Megapack, Model Y, Tesla
January 31, 2025
Tesla Autopilot and FSD: 6x Safer Than Distracted Human Drivers
During the last quarterly call with Tesla, Elon Musk announced that the company will launch a fleet of its vehicles featuring the unsupervised FSD function in Austin, Texas, this coming June.
New Models Coming Soon
Most of these vehicles are expected to be the 2026 Model Y Juniper and Model 3, equipped with AI4 (Hardware 4.0) systems and an FSD 13 update. This upgrade will enable these cars to navigate city streets autonomously, without the need for a driver onboard. This fleet will serve as the initial test for the paid Robotaxi ride-sharing service, allowing Tesla owners and the two-seat Cybercabs to join the platform in the following year.
Regulatory Hurdles Ahead
To gain approval for this unsupervised FSD, which operates without a driver, Tesla must prove that its self-driving technology is safer than human drivers, even in states like Texas where regulations are more relaxed. This might explain why, just before the earnings call, Tesla’s AI team released the latest safety figures for Autopilot and FSD, which Elon Musk presented to investors.
In the fourth quarter, there was one crash for every 5.94 million miles driven with Autopilot engaged, compared to one crash for every 1.08 million miles when it wasn’t used. In contrast, the most recent data from NHTSA and FHWA shows that in the US, there is an automobile crash roughly every 702,000 miles.
A Complex Situation
These statistics don’t differentiate between city and highway driving, and Musk mentioned that the vehicles are eight times safer than human drivers when comparing to NHTSA numbers, rather than the six times safer when using Tesla’s own data. Additionally, he pointed out that current human drivers using FSD must deactivate it to check messages or emails, which creates a frustrating situation for many. “We’re in this odd situation where people turn off autopilot just to check a text, while steering with their knee,” said Musk.
When asked about the rollout of unsupervised FSD following the Austin pilot in June, Elon mentioned that the US is expected to have it this year, with China and Europe likely following by the end of 2026. He noted that the main challenges in Europe are regulatory, as various bodies meet at set intervals to discuss such features, while in China, geopolitical factors and complicated local driving rules present significant hurdles.
Tackling Training Challenges
In China, Tesla faces difficulties due to restrictions on transferring training videos out of the country, while the US government isn’t allowing training to occur in China. To address this, the company is analyzing publicly available videos of Chinese streets to enhance their training materials. They are also developing a simulator to replicate complex scenarios, such as bus lanes, which have strict operating hours. “If you accidentally enter a bus lane at the wrong time, you get an automatic ticket, so it’s a serious issue,” Musk explained.
While Tesla competes with companies that are introducing their own driver-assist technologies in China, including autonomous battery swapping and existing robotaxis, the unsupervised FSD seems to be poised for success in Europe and the US. However, whether this will lead to the remarkable profits Musk has been forecasting for Tesla and its vehicle owners is still uncertain.
Source:
Link
Tags: FSD, Model Y, Tesla
January 27, 2025
Tesla Model Y FSD Camera Cleaning System Demoed in 2025 Refresh
Dirty HW3 or HW4 cameras have long been a frustration for many Tesla drivers using Autopilot, FSD, or parking in tough weather.
The cameras on Tesla vehicles often face issues like fogging, freezing, or getting covered with dirt, sleet, or snow. This affects all the driver-assist features, leading some drivers to wish Tesla would reconsider their choice to ditch LiDAR in favor of a camera-based Vision system. One Reddit user pointed out:
“This is a major issue for ALL their vehicles. Autopilot doesn’t function well when the cameras are dirty, and I’ve been saying for years now that they need to implement weather solutions for all the cameras if they want FSD to meet people’s needs. Other manufacturers have added washers to their cameras; why hasn’t Tesla done the same?”
Addressing the Issue
Tesla has taken steps to tackle the problem of dirty FSD cameras, but not for the rear camera, which tends to get dirtier than the others. Drivers often found themselves needing to use a camera cleaning kit. The Cybertruck was designed with a cleaning and heating system for the front bumper camera, which was previously a unique feature of Tesla’s first electric pickup.
Fortunately, this camera washing feature is now being introduced to the Model Y Juniper facelift set to launch in March. Early reviews of the 2025 Model Y have begun testing the front bumper camera washer, and it’s hopeful that the lens will also include a heating element like in the Cybertruck, helping to clear ice or snow during winter without requiring drivers to step outside their Model Y Juniper.
Future Developments
Regarding the rear cameras that often gather dirt, Tesla recently announced that they are working on a “comprehensive cleaning solution,” but they haven’t shared any specifics yet.
Source:
Link
Tags: FSD, Model Y, Tesla
January 24, 2025
Tesla Announces 2025 Model Y Release with $599 Lease and FSD
Tesla has officially opened orders for the 2025 Model Y in the US, just as many were expecting. The price for the Juniper refresh starts at $59,990 before tax credits or any other incentives, but it does come with Full Self-Driving (FSD) included.
Release Date and Special Edition
The 2025 Model Y is scheduled to be released in the US in March, aligning with its launch in China and Europe. The Juniper facelift is available as the Launch Series Long Range AWD edition, featuring unique badging and complimentary FSD, which contributes to the higher cost.
Impressive Range Figures
Tesla claims that the new Model Y can achieve a range of up to 320 miles when equipped with the smaller, 19-inch Crossflow wheels. If you opt for the premium 20-inch Helix wheels, the range drops to 303 miles. These figures come from Tesla’s own testing, which tends to be stricter than EPA standards, so there might be a chance for the range to be adjusted upward by over ten miles.
The anticipated EPA range for the 2025 Model Y AWD could be quite similar to the 337 miles offered by the current RWD version in the US. In China, Tesla has indicated a 3% improvement in range for the facelift compared to the earlier model, according to local CLTC tests.
Design Enhancements for Better Efficiency
Tesla attributes the enhanced Juniper range to a “redesigned exterior with improved aerodynamics that unlocks better range, performance & longevity,” instead of introducing a new or larger battery. It remains unclear if the US Model Y Juniper will utilize Tesla’s own 4680 cells.
The 2025 Model Y is priced at $4,000 more than the current AWD version, even without considering the bundled FSD option. Although the Launch Series edition includes “exclusive badging on the rear liftgate, puddle lights, doorsill plates, and more,” along with upgraded materials in the seats and interior, it’s still pricier than the existing top-tier Performance trim.
Tax Credit and Leasing Options
Tesla still lists the Model Y Juniper as eligible for the federal tax credit, which likely explains the hurried announcement of a single trim that won’t be available until March. Early adopters of the 2025 Model Y can seize the $7,500 tax credit if they act quickly, as the new Trump administration has put a halt to any EV subsidy distributions until further notice, possibly eliminating the tax credit entirely.
Tesla might be prepared to make up for the potential loss of the tax credit for Model Y Juniper refresh buyers. Currently, they’re offering a lease option at $599 per month for the 2025 Model Y, factoring in a $100 “gas savings” and a mysterious “Tesla incentive” that is suspiciously equal to the $7,500 federal tax credit. Additionally, there’s a purchase option available for leased Model Y Juniper refresh vehicles.
Additional Benefits of the 2025 Model Y
Aside from the higher price of the Juniper facelift, the new 2025 Model Y brings various exterior, interior, and specification enhancements compared to the older Model Y, including the extended range on a single charge. Tesla has detailed all these improvements.
Tesla has also introduced the 2025 Model Y in Europe, featuring an exciting new AWD Launch Series Maximum Range version, which offers a longer range than the current RWD champion there—568 km (352 miles) compared to 565 km on the local WLTP cycle.
It’s possible this version could have the rumored larger 95 kWh battery for the 2025 Model Y, but its range can only be accurately compared to the US model once the official EPA estimates are released.
Source:
Link
Tags: Juniper, Model Y, Tesla
January 19, 2025
Tesla Slashes Model Y Prices and Offers 5 Years Free Supercharging in Japan
Tesla is gearing up to launch the refreshed Model Y Juniper, not just in countries like China where it’s available for pre-order, but also worldwide.
Promotional Efforts for Model Y
The company has initiated a big promotional campaign to sell off existing Model Y stock before introducing the updated version in various locations including the US and Japan.
Price Cuts in the US
In the United States, the prices for inventory Model Y vehicles have been slashed by as much as $4,120 for the top-tier Performance model, with reductions ranging from $960 to $2,500 for other variants.
There are several Long Range Model Y AWD cars available at a discount of $2,500, bringing their price down to $47,490 before applying the $7,500 federal tax credit. This also applies to options like multi-coat paint and 20-inch Induction Wheels. To put it in perspective, this particular configuration would cost $51,990 if ordered out of inventory.
Performance Model Discounts
The Model Y Performance version, which accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, has a starting price of $53,490 with the Quicksilver paint. However, if bought from inventory, the price drops to $47,370.
Tesla has already begun selling the Juniper in China and has kicked off mass production in Europe, suggesting that an announcement regarding the 2025 Model Y pricing for the US is imminent.
With the federal tax credit factored in, the base trim of the inventory Model Y can now be snagged for as low as $37,490, making it an attractive offer even for those waiting for the Juniper update in the US.
Incentives in Japan
In Japan, Tesla has introduced another incentive to lure in Model Y customers ahead of the Juniper facelift. Buyers of inventory vehicles will receive free Supercharging for five years, with some conditions:
Customers who buy a new Model Y from stock can use Superchargers without charge for five years post-delivery. To qualify, new orders made after January 1, 2025, must be delivered by March 31, 2025. Those waiting for a vehicle ordered by December 31, 2024, won’t be eligible for this offer if they place a new order after January 1, 2025. This offer is tied to the Tesla account and isn’t transferable to other customers or vehicles. Additionally, used cars and those used for business (like taxis or delivery services) are not eligible. Idle fees incurred when a vehicle is left charging or during busy times also aren’t included in this benefit. Tesla reserves the right to modify or cancel this program at any time.
Similar Conditions for Other Models
These conditions mirror those that Tesla recently imposed on free lifetime Supercharging for orders of the Foundation Series Cybertruck or Model S in the US.
It seems Tesla is reviving the free Supercharging promotions as a tactic to boost quarterly sales figures, extending it even to the Model Y in select markets. Unfortunately, unlike past years, these free Supercharging offers are not transferable to another person or vehicle.
Source:
Link
Tags: Juniper refresh, Model Y, Tesla
January 10, 2025
Tesla Cuts Cybertruck Production Amid Model Y Staffing Shift
It’s been clear for a while that interest in the Tesla Cybertruck is decreasing, as images of lots filled with unsold Cybertrucks and reports of quicker delivery times are spreading online. Now, there’s stronger proof that the Cybertruck isn’t performing as well in sales as Tesla had hoped.
Survey Insights
Sources close to the situation shared with Business Insider that a survey took place in December. It asked workers on the Cybertruck production line about their job preferences, while also informing them of upcoming transitions to the Model Y assembly line. Furthermore, two independent insiders indicated to Business Insider that Tesla plans to reduce the overall production of the Cybertruck.
This survey was said to follow a notification to some Cybertruck assembly workers that they wouldn’t need to come to work in December 2024, effectively placing them on a temporary leave while production slowed. Thankfully, this break lasted only three days, but soon after, updates to the production schedule were made public.
Production Challenges
Insiders claim that not enough workers from the Cybertruck line chose to switch to the Model Y production line, leading to some being compelled to transfer when the new schedule took effect in January. Since production of the Cybertruck began in November 2023, there have been inconsistent reports regarding output, with battery supply chain issues being among the top challenges for the electric pickup.
Tesla might also be focusing on ramping up production for the Model Y Juniper refresh, which is anticipated to be very popular upon its release later this year, considering the Model Y’s incredible success in the market.
Source:
Link
Tags: Cybertruck, Model Y, Tesla
January 7, 2025
Tesla Ships Parts to Owners for DIY Repairs with Cybertruck Wiring
Tesla is expanding its self-repair program by offering parts directly to its vehicle owners. While you can’t buy the $15,750 Model Y battery, you can get items like brake rotors and calipers.
New Offerings for Owners
Previously, Tesla only provided basic items such as replacement wipers or air filters. Now, they are adding more components to their direct-to-consumer catalog, which is expected “to be expanded with future releases.” California’s right-to-repair law may be influencing this change, especially since Tesla has recently shared an interactive wiring diagram for the Cybertruck. This change is beneficial for owners, allowing them to perform simple repairs themselves and avoid service center visits.
Pricing and Availability
For example, you can order the Model Y brake rotors, part number 1188611-00-A, for $160 directly from Tesla, with a delivery time of about a week. Currently, these repair parts can only be sent to a US address. This suggests that Tesla’s willingness to sell parts directly is partly due to the right-to-repair movement at both the state and federal levels, which has even prompted companies like Apple to provide repair parts, tools, and diagrams to third-party repair shops.
Previous Ordering Process
In the past, if someone wanted to do a simple brake job, they had to order the part to be delivered to a Tesla Service Center and then pick it up from there. The only Tesla vehicle without any direct-to-consumer repair parts listed in its Electronic Repair Catalog is the Cybertruck, which is understandable due to production ramp challenges. As the Cybertruck becomes more widely available and early adopter vehicles need services like brake replacements, it’s likely that Tesla will add more Cybertruck parts to their catalog.
You can also find the Power Stop carbon fiber ceramic brake pads for the Tesla Model Y on Amazon.
Source: Link
Tags: Model Y, right-to-repair, Tesla
December 27, 2024
Tesla Model Y Owners: Free FSD Offer Extension for Subscribers
After previously providing free trials of its Full Self-Driving (Supervised) service exclusively for inventory vehicles, and later extending the promotion to include free Supercharging for new purchases across its fleet, Tesla is now offering FSD trials at no cost.
Free FSD Subscriptions for Model Y Owners
Some owners of the Model Y are now receiving a complimentary month of the FSD subscription to experience the autonomous driving feature, which has recently been updated to its 13th version, introducing numerous enhancements in parking and traffic awareness.
“You have been granted a complimentary trial of Full Self-Driving (Supervised) for your Model Y,” Tesla’s holiday message states, explaining the functionalities of FSD and how to navigate the additional trial period.
Limited Offer for Newer Models
Interestingly, this offer also applies to current FSD subscription users, who can enjoy the service without the usual $99 monthly charge during the trial. However, the invitations are primarily sent to owners of newer Model Y batches equipped with Tesla’s latest AI4 hardware, leaving many Model Y owners in the US, who still have the HW3 kit, unable to access FSD 13 at this time.
Tesla has assured that free HW4 upgrade retrofits will be available if it cannot get the latest FSD versions to operate on the older Hardware 3.0 platform. Until then, most owners of Model Y or Model 3 will miss out on the newest advancements that the self-driving software can provide.
A Strategic Move Towards Approval
This initiative clearly aims to enhance the popularity of the latest FSD 13 version, as Tesla requires intervention data to present to regulators in its effort to eliminate the “supervised” aspect of its paid Full Self-Driving service.
Elon Musk has stated that unsupervised FSD is expected to launch in 2025, starting in Texas and California for existing models, before Tesla rolls out its driverless Robotaxi on public streets.
Future of Tesla’s Ride-Share Service
Reports indicate that Tesla’s Cybercab ride-share service will initially utilize company-owned vehicles, including Robotaxis, while current Tesla owners will have the opportunity to rent their cars to the service for extra income in the future.
Musk has also suggested that he might use his position as the head of the newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) under the upcoming Trump administration to lead the way in federal regulations for autonomous vehicles.
This would streamline the approval process for self-driving cars on public roads, according to Musk. Additionally, Tesla is collaborating at both state and city levels, including training first responders to handle situations that could arise from its driverless vehicles, such as the Robotaxi when they become more prevalent on the streets.
Source: Link
Tags: Full Self-Driving, Model Y, Tesla