Tag: Model Y

  • Tesla Launches Model Y Robotaxi Rides on Exclusive App

    Tesla Launches Model Y Robotaxi Rides on Exclusive App

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla’s Robotaxi platform will have a specialized hailing app showing all ride charges in US dollars, including airport fees and cleaning costs.
    2. The launch event for the Robotaxi service is scheduled for June 22 in Austin, with media and influencers invited.
    3. Early Access testing is currently invite-only, with Model Y robotaxis operating from 6 AM to midnight and no airport trips allowed initially.
    4. Safety features include a “Tesla Safety Monitor” and the ability to suspend service during bad weather, along with privacy measures for cabin cameras and microphones.
    5. The Robotaxi service is being rolled out as an invitation-only experience, with selected users able to download the app on iOS and Android.

    Tesla’s Robotaxi ride-share platform is set to feature a specialized hailing app that will detail all charges in US dollars, including fees for airports and possible vehicle cleaning.

    Launch Event in Austin

    Tesla has begun reaching out to various media figures and influencers in the automotive field, inviting them to the grand unveiling of the Robotaxi platform in Austin on Sunday, June 22.

    Early Access Testing

    Currently, the Early Access testing phase is exclusive to invitees. The Model Y robotaxis will operate in a specific area from 6 AM to midnight. Initially, those invited won’t be able to use the service to go to the airport, even though Tesla states that “charges for rides are clearly shown in the Robotaxi app in U.S. dollars, and may include applicable tolls, airport fees, regulatory charges, and similar costs in connection with the ride.”

    Safety and Privacy Features

    Tesla seems to be taking thorough measures to ensure the safety and privacy of its newly launched Robotaxi ride-share service. For instance, it will include a “Tesla Safety Monitor,” which is an employee equipped with a brake pedal and emergency stop buttons, similar to those seen in the leaked Model Y robotaxi interface.

    The electric vehicle manufacturer also has the ability to suspend the Robotaxi service during bad weather. They assure users that the cabin camera will be disabled throughout the ride, unless passengers request help from the platform’s service center. However, the cabin microphones will remain active to detect sirens when the Model Y needs to yield to emergency vehicles. Still, these microphones won’t send any sound to Tesla unless the user engages with support or calls 911.

    Invitation-Only Experience

    These measures for safety and privacy could be why Tesla is rolling out the Robotaxi service as an invite-only experience, similar to the automotive influencers who participated in the Cybertruck launch events. Tesla welcomes their feedback at all times and clarifies that, for now, they are the only ones able to download the Robotaxi app on both iOS and Android platforms.

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    Tesla Launches Model Y Robotaxi Rides on Exclusive AppTesla Launches Model Y Robotaxi Rides on Exclusive AppTesla Launches Model Y Robotaxi Rides on Exclusive AppTesla Launches Model Y Robotaxi Rides on Exclusive App
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  • Tesla Robotaxi Interface Leaks on Model Y as Texas Demands Delay

    Tesla Robotaxi Interface Leaks on Model Y as Texas Demands Delay

    Key Takeaways

    1. Texas lawmakers are urging Tesla to delay the launch of its driverless Robotaxi service until new regulations take effect on September 1.
    2. Texas has relaxed rules for autonomous vehicles, requiring only standard registration and insurance, unlike stricter regulations in California.
    3. Tesla’s Model Y vehicles for the Robotaxi service already meet many legislative requirements, but some aspects still need validation before the launch.
    4. The Robotaxi service will focus on geofenced urban areas, with human operators on standby for safety, similar to Waymo’s approach.
    5. A developer interface for the Robotaxi service has been spotted, featuring safety buttons, though it’s unclear if they will be included in the final design.

    As Tesla is preparing to kick off its first rides with the driverless Robotaxi service in Austin on June 22, a group of lawmakers from Texas have penned a letter urging the company to delay the launch.

    Texas Regulations Favor Tesla

    Tesla chose Austin for its relaxed rules concerning autonomous vehicles, unlike stricter regulations in places like California. In Texas, the laws for autonomous cars are similar to those for regular vehicles, requiring only standard registration and insurance.

    However, the lawmakers are introducing new legislation regarding autonomous vehicles that will take effect on September 1. They are requesting that Tesla hold off on the Robotaxi launch until this date. The letter states, “Under the new framework, commercial autonomous vehicle operators transporting passengers or property must receive prior authorization from the Department of Motor Vehicles before operating on public streets without a human driver.”

    Compliance with Legislative Requirements

    The 2026 Model Y vehicles that Tesla currently uses for testing the Robotaxi service in Austin already meet many of the requirements set forth in the new legislation. Some aspects, such as being “capable of achieving a minimal risk condition if the automated driving system is rendered inoperable,” may still need to be proven for Tesla to move forward with the service prior to the new rules being enforced. Other requirements include being able to communicate with emergency responders, but Tesla has already completed the necessary training in Austin.

    Tesla is set to roll out the Robotaxi service with approximately a dozen new Model Y vehicles that have been operating around Austin for some time now, featuring the new ride-share logo that can be observed below. There have been multiple sightings of these driverless Model Ys, which seem to have a test passenger either in the front or back seat.

    Developer Interface Insights

    Interestingly, someone was able to capture a photo of the developer interface for the Robotaxi service while waiting at a traffic light. The user interface features a 3D map along with two prominent buttons marked “Pull Over” and “Emergency Stop.” It remains unclear if these buttons will be included in the final design of the Robotaxi interface, but Elon Musk has emphasized that safety will take precedence during the pilot launch of the service.

    Tesla is taking a page from Waymo’s playbook by focusing on geofenced urban areas that it has thoroughly mapped to minimize risks. Additionally, human operators will be on standby to assist, similar to Waymo’s approach.

    As shown in the video below, Tesla is currently conducting a second validation run on these city streets to fine-tune how the Model Y’s camera-only FSD interprets the mapped geofenced areas.

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    Tesla Robotaxi Interface Leaks on Model Y as Texas Demands DelayTesla Robotaxi Interface Leaks on Model Y as Texas Demands DelayTesla Robotaxi Interface Leaks on Model Y as Texas Demands Delay
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  • Global Release of Six-Seat Model Y with Extended Wheelbase

    Global Release of Six-Seat Model Y with Extended Wheelbase

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla is launching a six-seat version of the Model Y, confirmed by firmware code and insider information from Giga Shanghai.
    2. The six-seater Model Y will be available globally, not just in China, due to demand in other markets.
    3. Tesla currently offers a 7-seat Model Y with limited space, with potential plans for more seating configurations in the future.
    4. The six-seat Model Y may include a longer wheelbase and individual captain seats, enhancing passenger comfort.
    5. Each seat in the six-seat Model Y will provide ample legroom and armrests for improved comfort for all passengers.

    Tesla is set to launch a six-seat version of the Model Y, as insiders from Giga Shanghai have hinted at this new variant. Recent findings in Tesla’s firmware code support the existence of this model, confirming that it is indeed in the works.

    Global Launch Expected

    Interestingly, the latest code suggests that the Model Y six-seater will be available globally, rather than being limited to the Chinese market as initially believed. In China, family SUVs with six captain seats are highly sought after, but Tesla may be recognizing the potential success of this model in other regions too.

    Current Offerings

    At the moment, Tesla does not offer a traditional three-row SUV designed for larger families. Instead, they previously provided a 7-seat version of the Model Y, which adds two small and not very spacious seats in the trunk area. There may still be plans for a Model Y seven-seater in the future, similar to the three seating configurations available for the Model X.

    Pricing and Interior Features

    The six-seat version of the Model X is the priciest interior option, costing an extra $6,500. This variant features full-size seats arranged with an aisle between them, replacing the standard second-row bench. The refreshed 2026 Model X will have slightly more legroom in the back, thanks to its larger body.

    Tesla might adopt a comparable design for the six-seat Model Y, featuring a longer wheelbase and four individual captain seats, along with two additional seats in the trunk. The latest Model Y introduces innovative seat folding mechanisms that operate with just a button, so the six-seat model could also include smart ways to adjust the seating layout.

    Comfort for All Passengers

    Having a six-seat Model Y will certainly enhance comfort for five adults, as each will have their own seat complete with armrests and ample legroom, even for those in the rear supplemental seats.

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    Global Release of Six-Seat Model Y with Extended Wheelbase
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  • Tesla HW5 FSD Computer Specs Leaked: TSMC and Samsung Production

    Tesla HW5 FSD Computer Specs Leaked: TSMC and Samsung Production

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla is ordering the next-generation AI5/HW5 chip, expected to achieve performance between 2000 and 2500 TOPS, significantly faster than the current HW4 computer.
    2. TSMC is likely the main foundry for the AI5 chip production, with Samsung as a backup for mass shipping in 2026.
    3. Enhanced camera features are expected with the AI5/HW5 kit, including weather-proof cameras that can melt ice or snow quickly.
    4. Tesla plans to start outfitting vehicles with AI5/HW5 FSD hardware by the end of the year, possibly aiming for a holiday sales boost.
    5. Elon Musk hinted at a new FSD 14 version with fourfold improvements, but it remains unclear if HW5 is necessary for its operation.

    While Tesla is working hard to fit its unsupervised FSD algorithms into the existing HW3 computer that makes up most of its vehicles, it has already started ordering the next-generation HW5 chip, now referred to as AI5.

    Orders and Performance Expectations

    These orders are going to both TSMC and Samsung foundries, and insiders from Korea are saying that the Tesla AI5/HW5 FSD computer is expected to achieve performance between 2000 and 2500 TOPS (trillion operations per second). This represents a speed increase of five times compared to the current HW4 computer, which is found in the latest Model Y and can smoothly run unsupervised FSD. The launch of the pilot Tesla Robotaxi platform is planned for the week of June 21, featuring around a dozen driverless Model Y units equipped with the AI4 hardware kit, which will operate in Austin without supervision.

    Future Production Plans

    There are rumors that Tesla has chosen TSMC for the production process of its 3nm N3P chip and may become one of their largest customers as TSMC ramps up production of the AI5/HW5 FSD processor later this year. Tesla is keeping Samsung as a backup foundry for its AI5 chip, but it’s said that they will only rely on Samsung’s production in 2026 when they begin mass shipping HW5 vehicles.

    At this point, it’s uncertain what additional enhancements the AI5/HW5 Tesla FSD hardware kit will offer beyond the much quicker computer. However, improved FSD cameras are one rumored upgrade.

    Enhanced Camera Features

    Reports indicate that Samsung will provide its Weather Proof automotive cameras, which include a heating element embedded directly in the lens rather than running through the cover glass. These cameras retain the 8MP sensors similar to those on the new Model Y, but they can melt ice or snow covering them in under a minute, which will surely be beneficial for users in colder areas looking to utilize FSD.

    Tesla already has a cleaning system for the front bumper camera in its newer models, but the new Samsung Weather Proof cameras that might be included in the Tesla HW5 kit also feature a six times tougher coating that is water-repellent. This design will help remove melted snow or ice droplets from the lens, resulting in less distortion when changing lanes or detecting movement, according to Samsung.

    Tesla is expected to start outfitting its initial batches of vehicles with AI5/HW5 FSD hardware before the year wraps up, possibly reserving this upgrade for the holiday quarter batches to boost sales.

    What’s Next for Tesla FSD?

    Elon Musk hinted that the new FSD 14 version, set to release around that time, will show a fourfold improvement across its parameters, leaving it unclear if HW5 will be necessary to operate it. Tesla has promised to retrofit all HW3 vehicles for free with HW4 computers for those who want to try unsupervised FSD if they cannot get it to work on the older hardware.

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    Tesla HW5 FSD Computer Specs Leaked: TSMC and Samsung Production
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  • Tesla Owners Sue Elon Musk for Refunds Over Vandalism Claims

    Tesla Owners Sue Elon Musk for Refunds Over Vandalism Claims

    Key Takeaways

    1. Vandalism incidents involving Tesla cars have increased since Elon Musk became more politically active, affecting both the U.S. and international markets.

    2. A group of French Tesla owners has filed a lawsuit against the company, citing breaches of a French law that requires manufacturers to ensure peaceful use of their products.

    3. The lawsuit claims that Musk’s political involvement has turned Teslas into political symbols, hindering owners’ enjoyment of their vehicles.

    4. Public perception of Tesla has declined sharply due to Musk’s political activities, leading owners to seek compensation and explore other electric vehicle options.

    5. Tesla’s sales have dropped significantly, especially in Europe, with a reported 60% decrease in countries like France and Germany, despite the release of the refreshed Model Y.

    Vandalism incidents involving Tesla cars and showrooms have sharply increased since CEO Elon Musk became more politically active.

    Many Teslas have been set ablaze, scratched, had their tires damaged, windows broken, or were marked with anti-Elon slogans both in the United States and internationally.

    Lawsuit from French Owners

    After experiencing vandalism, including swastikas and even feces on their cars, a group of French Tesla owners decided to take legal action against the company due to Musk’s political involvement. This could be a significant case for other customers.

    Their lawyer from GKA has submitted a lawsuit claiming breaches of a special French law that requires manufacturers to guarantee a “peaceful use” of their products. GKA argues that while Tesla owners purchased their vehicles for their innovative and eco-friendly features, Musk’s actions have turned them into “strong political symbols,” hindering their enjoyment of the cars.

    Declining Brand Perception

    This year, the public’s view of Tesla has declined drastically because of Musk’s political activities and his brief role at the Department Of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Caught off-guard by the changing perceptions, Tesla owners are now seeking compensation.

    The plaintiffs are asking Tesla to buy back their cars and return any lease payments or cash they have made as they look for other eco-friendly electric vehicle options.

    Court Proceedings

    The lawsuit was filed in the Commercial Court of Paris on June 11th, and the judge must now decide if other Tesla owners wishing to join the case can do so after the lawsuit was made known.

    Despite the introduction of the highly anticipated Model Y refresh, Tesla’s sales have significantly decreased this year. The situation in Europe is especially troubling, as Tesla is the only electric vehicle manufacturer facing a negative brand image and a 60% drop in sales in countries like France and Germany.

    Although the Model Y remains one of the leading electric vehicles, its sales have dropped by 50% compared to the same time last year, even with the recent updates.

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    Tesla Owners Sue Elon Musk for Refunds Over Vandalism Claims
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  • Driverless Model Y Filmed on Streets with Tesla Robotaxi Logo

    Driverless Model Y Filmed on Streets with Tesla Robotaxi Logo

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla’s Robotaxi ride-share service will officially launch on June 22, with the first driverless delivery set for June 28.
    2. The service will start in Austin, Texas, where a driverless Model Y was spotted, showcasing Tesla’s logo on the vehicle.
    3. Texas has lenient regulations for self-driving cars, requiring minimal extra rules compared to standard vehicles.
    4. The Robotaxi fleet will use a new version of Full Self-Driving (FSD) software called “unsupervised FSD,” with future updates planned to enhance performance.
    5. Tesla is training local authorities in Austin on handling self-driving cars and will initially roll out about ten Model Y units in a controlled area, with human operators available for assistance.

    Tesla’s Robotaxi Launch

    Elon Musk announced that Tesla’s Robotaxi ride-share service will officially launch on June 22. Following this event, the first completely driverless delivery of a Model Y from the factory to a customer is set for June 28.

    First Sightings of the Robotaxi

    Before the launch, a driverless Model Y robotaxi was spotted on the streets of Austin for the first time. Tesla has decided to kick off its Robotaxi service in this city, and the logo can be seen on the side of the Model Y in the accompanying video.

    Texas Regulations

    Texas has quite lenient laws regarding self-driving cars, requiring minimal extra regulations compared to those for standard vehicles, such as basic registration and insurance.

    The Model Y can be seen waiting for pedestrians to cross before turning left, notably without a driver inside. Tesla has been testing these robotaxis with an employee in the back seat as a precaution. Musk mentioned that this Model Y operates on a different version of the Full Self-Driving (FSD) software that other Tesla cars use.

    Future Software Updates

    In the future, the FSD version that the Robotaxi fleet will utilize, referred to by Tesla as “unsupervised FSD,” is expected to integrate with the main software that gets updated over the air, allowing all vehicles to join the platform.

    Later this year, Tesla plans to roll out a new version of the FSD that aims to increase parameters by four times while ensuring “super frugal use of memory bandwidth” and only caching what’s necessary.

    Collaboration with Local Authorities

    Tesla has been actively training the police and first responders in Austin on how to handle situations involving its self-driving cars. The company plans to start cautiously, rolling out around ten Model Y units within a geofenced area, similar to Waymo’s operations.

    There will also be human operators available for riders to contact in case any issues arise, resembling Waymo’s approach. The only remaining detail is the pricing for rides with Tesla’s Robotaxi service, which is expected to be revealed on or before the June 22 launch.

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  • Family Model Y 7-Seater Launch Expected Before 2026 Performance Trim

    Family Model Y 7-Seater Launch Expected Before 2026 Performance Trim

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla is hinting at the release of the 2026 Model Y, which will feature seven seats.
    2. The new Model Y may be the first seven-seat option in Tesla’s lineup, emphasizing long range and ample space.
    3. Current Model Y orders show only two interior color choices, with a potential 7-seat model suggested in the configuration options.
    4. The Chinese market may receive a 6-seat version with three rows of full-size seats, larger than the existing 5-seat model.
    5. It is unclear if the US 7-seat Model Y will have an extended wheelbase or just two smaller seats in the trunk.

    Tesla has begun sending out emails that hint at the upcoming release of the much-anticipated 2026 Model Y, which will feature seven seats.

    This model is the one that Tesla’s head engineer, Lars Moravy, mentioned would be coming “later this year” during an interview related to the Model Y facelift. He also dropped a hint about a 2026 Model Y Performance version, which has been spotted testing at the famous Nürburgring racetrack.

    Exciting Features to Expect

    The new 7-seat Model Y might be the first one to hit the market from Tesla’s lineup. The promotional email informs potential buyers that the electric SUV is “ready for anything with long range, seating for up to seven and enough room for everyone’s gear.”

    While whether there will be enough space for everyone’s belongings in a Model Y with seven seats can be argued, the fact that Tesla is presenting this option as a certainty is quite revealing.

    Updates on Interior Options

    At the moment, the Model Y order page shows just two choices for interior colors regarding the seats. However, Tesla mentions a “5-seater configuration” beneath them, suggesting a 7-seat model might be on the horizon once again.

    There were whispers that a 2026 Model Y with more than five seats started production at Giga Shanghai back in May, but the Tesla China options configurator hasn’t yet reflected this change.

    Market Variations

    Reports indicate that the Chinese market is expected to receive a 6-seat version of the Model Y with three rows of full-size seats, which will also be larger than the current 5-seat model offered by Tesla.

    It’s still uncertain whether the 7-seat Model Y teased in the emails to US customers will feature an extended wheelbase or simply be similar to the current model but with two smaller seats added in the trunk, as Tesla often does.

    Regardless, it seems that the 7-seat Model Y is nearly ready for its debut, meaning Tesla will soon address all those urgent legroom inquiries.

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  • Tesla Model Y RWD Trim: Zero Due at Signing Financing Deal

    Tesla Model Y RWD Trim: Zero Due at Signing Financing Deal

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla is offering a 1.99% APR financing rate for the new Long Range RWD Model Y, available until June 30 for eligible buyers.
    2. A down payment of at least 15% is required, but the $7,500 federal tax credit can count towards this, allowing some buyers to purchase with little to no money down.
    3. A 2.99% APR financing option with zero down payment is available for buyers who do not qualify for the tax credit.
    4. The RWD Model Y offers a significant range of 357 miles per charge and is priced lower than the AWD variant, which previously had the 1.99% financing offer.
    5. Tesla’s APR promotions cannot be combined with the $2,000 Model Y Loyalty Incentive, but can be combined with other discounts like referral credits or military discounts.

    After launching a 0% APR for the Cybertruck and Model 3, Tesla is now providing a financing offer for the most affordable Model Y variant, which also boasts the longest range.

    Financing Details

    Eligible buyers of the Model Y can now benefit from a financing rate of 1.99% APR on the basic Long Range RWD model that was recently unveiled, provided they receive their vehicle by June 30. The Model Y has become Tesla’s top-selling car and has just undergone a significant redesign. This financing promotion for the least expensive version looks like a strategic move to boost sales ahead of Elon Musk’s second-quarter earnings report.

    Tax Credit and Down Payment

    Tesla specifies that for the new Model Y RWD APR financing offer to apply, a down payment of at least 15% is required. However, since the $7,500 federal tax credit can be considered as part of this down payment, buyers can effectively purchase the Model Y with essentially no money down. For those who do not meet the tax credit requirements, Tesla provides an alternative. They can secure a 2.99% APR financing option with zero down payment on a Model Y.

    Comparison with AWD Model

    Previously, the 1.99% financing rate was only available for the Model Y AWD, which costs $4,000 more than the RWD variant that provides an impressive range of 357 miles per charge. Note that this AWD financing offer ends on June 16, while the RWD financing offer is valid until the end of June.

    The APR financing options for the Model Y are applicable for all payment terms up to 72 months. This means the lowest monthly payment, with zero down for those eligible for the tax credit, comes out to $603. If a buyer makes a down payment of $3,999, the monthly payment drops to $544.

    Additional Promotions

    However, it’s important to note that Tesla indicates the APR deal cannot be combined with the $2,000 Model Y Loyalty Incentive for upgrades. Yet, other promotions such as referral credits or military discounts can be combined, further reducing the monthly payments for the Model Y.

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  • Tesla’s Driverless Model Y Launching June 12, Roaming Austin Now

    Tesla’s Driverless Model Y Launching June 12, Roaming Austin Now

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla will launch its first robotaxi service in Austin on June 12, allowing rides in fully autonomous vehicles without drivers.
    2. The new Model Y has completed initial journeys with fully autonomous driving (FSD) activated, but public access starts on June 12.
    3. The robotaxi feature will be available in the Tesla app, with pricing details to be announced at launch, potentially offering lower fares than competitors due to the absence of drivers.
    4. If testing continues to be accident-free, Tesla plans to expand its robotaxi service to more cities later this year.
    5. By 2026, Tesla will allow vehicle owners to rent their cars to the robotaxi fleet, with Tesla taking a commission similar to ride-sharing companies like Uber.

    People in Austin, as well as visitors arriving after June 12, will have the chance to try out the first Tesla robotaxi service, which has been in development for several years. These won’t just be test drives; the vehicles that Tesla will put on the streets will be operating without drivers.

    The Model Y’s First Steps

    Elon Musk has confirmed that the new Model Y has successfully completed its initial journeys with fully autonomous driving (FSD) activated, with a Tesla staff member onboard in Austin. However, the public will have to wait until June 12 to use the Tesla robotaxi ride-share feature.

    Testing the Driverless Experience

    When asked if visitors to Austin could summon and experience a driverless Model Y using unsupervised FSD, Musk answered positively. The robotaxi option will be available in the Tesla app once the service launches, and that’s when the pricing for rides will be revealed.

    It’s still unclear how the pricing of Tesla’s robotaxi services will stack up against competitors like Uber and Lyft. However, since there will be no driver and only around ten Model Y pilot vehicles owned and operated by Tesla, it is likely the fares will be lower.

    Future Expansion Plans

    Musk noted that the recent days of testing a driverless Model Y in Austin have been accident-free, and if everything continues smoothly, Tesla intends to broaden its robotaxi service to additional cities later this year. By 2026, the platform will be accessible to vehicle owners who wish to rent out their cars to the robotaxi fleet for various durations in order to earn money, with Tesla taking a cut similar to Uber’s model.

    In June, Tesla is also set to make its first driverless delivery of a brand-new Model Y directly from the factory to its owner, as shared by Elon. This delivery will likely occur in Austin again, since Texas has relatively lenient regulations concerning self-driving vehicles compared to those that have a human driver.

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  • Tesla Provides Free 2-Day Trials for Model Y and Cybertruck

    Tesla Provides Free 2-Day Trials for Model Y and Cybertruck

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla is implementing zero APR financing for the Model 3 and a 1.99% interest rate for the new Model Y to increase sales during a potentially slow quarter.

    2. Sales in Europe have halved compared to last year, with stagnation also seen in the US and China, prompting Tesla to launch a new demo drive initiative.

    3. A new 48-hour test drive format for multiple models, including the Cybertruck, has attracted significant interest, with bookings filling up weeks in advance.

    4. The Cybertruck is facing high depreciation rates, losing an average of 38% of its value within the first year, which is unusual for electric vehicles.

    5. Concerns about the Cybertruck’s pricing and market perception have led to its rapid decline in resale value, affecting owner sentiment.

    After launching zero APR financing for the Model 3 and a 1.99% interest rate for the new Model Y, as well as reinstating free FSD transfers and extending discounts for military personnel, educators, and first responders, Tesla has come up with a creative approach to boost sales during what could be a sluggish quarter.

    Sales Challenges in Europe and Beyond

    In Europe specifically, Tesla’s sales have declined by half compared to last year, while sales in the US and China have also been stagnant, although the reasons differ. The possible elimination of the EV tax credit in the new budget bill might prompt buyers to act sooner, thus helping the quarter in the US. To support this, Tesla has rolled out a fresh demo drive initiative.

    New 48-Hour Test Drive Format

    For the first time, anyone can reserve a long 48-hour test drive with the Model Y, Model 3, Model S, Model X, and even the Cybertruck. Tesla made the announcement about the complimentary Model Y and Cybertruck trials over the Memorial Day weekend, and it appears to have resonated well, as bookings are now full for weeks ahead.

    Some showrooms are noticing that many current Tesla owners are reserving multiple test drive slots to experience the new Model Y or the Cybertruck for an extended duration before making a decision on an upgrade.

    Interest in the Cybertruck

    The Cybertruck seems to generate significant interest, as in many regions, the 48-hour test drives have been reserved for a month in advance. It’s still unclear if these will lead to actual sales or if people are simply curious. Recently, Tesla has also introduced a more affordable RWD Cybertruck model and started accepting trade-ins for the original Foundation Series trims, which are now over a year old.

    Unfortunately, the trade-in valuations Tesla offers to Cybertruck owners are not much different from what the first electric pickup is fetching in the second-hand market, which isn’t very high. According to Kelley Blue Book, the Cybertruck has seen a staggering average depreciation of 38% within the first year.

    High Depreciation Rates

    This figure applies to the priciest Foundation Series trim, which was priced at up to $120,000. Owners can lose over $40,000, which is about the cost of a new Model 3 AWD after the tax credit is factored in. The Cybertruck’s depreciation in just one year is significant, even by electric vehicle standards. Typically, electric cars lose around 60% of their value over the first five years, making the Cybertruck’s rate of decline unusual, especially when compared to the Rivian R1T, which depreciates only 30% in two years.

    “It used to be a bit of a status symbol, but now we’re noticing it’s not seen that way,” explains an industry insider, who also suggests that the Cybertruck may have been overpriced right from the start, which could shed light on its rapid drop in resale value within just a year.

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