Tag: Tesla

  • Tesla Model Y: 0% APR Financing & Price Hike in China

    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.

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  • Zeekr Takes on Tesla’s FSD in China with Free Driver Assistance

    Zeekr Takes on Tesla’s FSD in China with Free Driver Assistance

    Key Takeaways

    1. Zeekr launches a free version of its Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) to compete with Tesla’s paid Full Self-Driving feature.
    2. The current system allows drivers to almost fully relinquish control but requires hands on the wheel until regulatory approval is obtained.
    3. Zeekr’s technology utilizes two Nvidia Orin X chipsets and one lidar unit, with plans to introduce more advanced chips in the future.
    4. The free ADAS version will be tested by a select group before a broader release in April, with no subscription fees during development.
    5. Tesla is developing its own ADAS without lidar but offers a free one-month trial of its Full Self-Driving feature in China.

    Zeekr may not be as well-known globally as Tesla, but it’s showing that it can hold its own in the market. The Chinese car manufacturer has made a bold move against Tesla’s paid Full Self-Driving (FSD) feature by launching a free version of its Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS).

    Advanced Driving Features

    Zeekr’s technology enables drivers to almost completely relinquish control of the vehicle on designated routes. However, for now, users must keep their hands on the wheel, similar to the requirements set by Tesla, as the company is still waiting for official regulatory approval.

    The system uses two Nvidia Orin X chipsets along with one lidar unit. In the future, Zeekr plans to roll out the Nvidia Thor automotive chip, which includes one long-range and four short-range lidar units. This setup is specifically designed for the Chinese market, while vehicles intended for international sales will be equipped with different chips to meet local regulations.

    Launch Plans

    Zeekr intends to provide the free version to a select group for testing before it becomes broadly available in April. CEO Andy An mentioned that there’s no reason to start subscriptions while the ADAS is still being developed, and it’s hard to ignore the nod towards Tesla’s FSD, which comes with a hefty price tag of $8,850.

    Tesla is also working on its own ADAS without using lidar, a component that An acknowledges raises costs but also improves safety. Meanwhile, Tesla is enticing drivers in China by offering a free one-month trial of its FSD.

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  • Tesla Moves Forward with Model 3 and Model Y Homologation in India

    Tesla Moves Forward with Model 3 and Model Y Homologation in India

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla has filed for homologation for its Model 3 and Model Y to meet Indian regulatory requirements.
    2. The company initially sought seven test permits and has now added an eighth.
    3. Tesla’s entry into India began in 2021, facing challenges from high import tariffs.
    4. A discussion between CEO Elon Musk and Prime Minister Modi has led to a more favorable situation for Tesla.
    5. Tesla is expanding its presence in India with a showroom near Mumbai airport and is recruiting for various positions amidst rising consumer interest in electric vehicles.

    Tesla is eager to introduce its products to India and has filed for homologation for its two most popular models.

    Understanding Homologation

    Homologation is a crucial step for car manufacturers before they can officially market their vehicles in a new region. This process guarantees that the cars meet the local regulatory requirements. The automaker must comply with safety regulations, emissions standards, and roadworthiness checks.

    Recent Developments

    Reports from IANS indicate that Tesla initially sought seven test permits but has now put in an eighth. These permits are for the Model 3 and Model Y.

    In 2021, Tesla began its journey into the Indian market by establishing a subsidiary, but the high import tariffs of up to 110 percent posed challenges. Nevertheless, after a discussion between CEO Elon Musk and Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the company feels that the situation has improved.

    Expansion Plans

    Tesla has already secured a showroom location in a high-end area close to the Mumbai airport. Additionally, it has begun recruiting for various positions, including vehicle service, sales, customer support, and operations.

    The interest in electric vehicles among Indian consumers is on the rise, with nearly 100,000 units sold in 2023, representing a 20 percent increase from the previous year. Tesla will face competition from established automakers that already offer electric vehicles, such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, Audi, and Porsche.

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  • Tesla Cybercab Battery Size and Real-World Driving Range Revealed

    Tesla Cybercab Battery Size and Real-World Driving Range Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla plans to launch a robotaxi service by the end of this year, featuring the Cybercab vehicle.
    2. The Cybercab will have a battery capacity of less than 50 kWh, offering a driving range of approximately 300 miles.
    3. The vehicle’s aerodynamic teardrop design enhances its energy efficiency, making it one of the most efficient electric vehicles available.
    4. The tapered rear design of the Cybercab is intended to improve aesthetics while maintaining functionality.
    5. Prototype Cybercabs are expected to be built this summer, with a full-scale launch anticipated in 2026.

    Tesla is gearing up to unveil a robotaxi service by the end of this year, and key company leaders have shared important details about the vehicle that will support this ride-hailing initiative. Earlier today, Lars Moravy, the Vice President of Vehicle Engineering, and Franz von Holzhausen, the Senior Design Executive, discussed their plans with renowned automotive presenter Sandy Munro.

    Impressive Specifications

    The Cybercab will feature a battery pack with a capacity that falls short of 50 kWh. This allows for a practical driving range of around 300 miles, while also achieving the top energy efficiency among electric vehicles currently available.

    The two-seater’s streamlined shape and aerodynamic wheel covers play a significant role in its leading energy efficiency. Von Holzhausen noted, “This vehicle is really special because of its teardrop design. It’s actually narrower at the back than at the front. Sure, you’ve covered the wheels, but the aerodynamics is a major element in achieving a longer range with a smaller battery.”

    Unique Design Features

    Von Holzhausen pointed out the tapered rear of the Cybercab, which can be easily seen from an aerial view. He emphasized that this design choice doesn’t make the vehicle look unattractive.

    Tesla is in the process of installing production machinery for the Cybercab at its Giga Texas facility. Prototype versions are expected to be built during the summer, with a full-scale launch planned for 2026. The self-driving model has already been observed at the company’s large site in Austin, Texas.

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  • Tesla U.S. Registrations Drop as Competing EV Brands Rise

    Tesla U.S. Registrations Drop as Competing EV Brands Rise

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla’s market share in the US electric vehicle market is declining, with an 11% drop in registrations from January 2024 to January 2025.
    2. February 2025 saw Tesla’s lowest monthly performance since July 2022, with only 43,650 registrations.
    3. Discussions suggest that Tesla’s sales peak in the US may have occurred in February 2023, with over 60,000 units sold.
    4. Competitors like Hyundai, Cadillac, and GMC are gaining ground, with a 44% increase in EV registrations among rivals in February.
    5. Tesla may have a chance to recover its sales with the upcoming delivery of the new Model Y, drawing on positive trends in markets like Norway and Sweden.

    Tesla is clearly the top player in the US electric vehicle market. Nonetheless, the company has watched its market share diminish. A report from Cox Automotive reveals that in January 2025, Tesla experienced a drop of 11 percent in registrations compared to the same time last year. The automaker led by Elon Musk achieved 43,411 registrations during the first month of the year, capturing just 42.5 percent of the market.

    February’s Struggles

    The month of February didn’t bring any relief for Tesla. According to data from Cox Automotive, the company reported an even poorer performance, with only 43,650 registrations in its domestic market. This marked Tesla’s lowest monthly performance since July 2022, stirring up discussions that its sales peak in the US may have been in February 2023 when it sold over 60,000 units.

    Competitors Gaining Ground

    Other automobile brands have benefitted from Tesla’s downturn. S&P Global Mobility discovered that buyers who switched from Tesla were most inclined to purchase the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Cadillac Lyriq, and the GMC Hummer EV. Overall, Tesla’s rivals saw a 44 percent increase in EV registrations in February.

    If the sales uptick in Norway and Sweden is a sign of things to come, Tesla may be able to turn around its downward trend in the US as it begins to deliver the new Model Y.

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  • BYD Challenges Tesla in Germany with New Factory Amid Model Y Issues

    BYD Challenges Tesla in Germany with New Factory Amid Model Y Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. BYD plans to build an electric vehicle factory in Germany to avoid high European tariffs on Chinese imports.
    2. This will be BYD’s third factory in Europe, adding to its existing facilities in Hungary and Turkey, with a total expected output of 500,000 vehicles.
    3. Despite challenges like labor costs and productivity in Germany, BYD sees it as a key location for increasing brand recognition in Europe.
    4. The new factory will compete directly with Tesla’s Gigafactory near Berlin, which is vital for producing the new Model Y.
    5. Tesla is facing employee morale issues at Giga Berlin, linked to its sick leave policy, while sales in Europe are declining ahead of the new Model Y production.

    BYD is reportedly set to establish an electric vehicle factory in Germany to sidestep European tariffs by manufacturing locally.

    New Factory Plans

    If this plan gets the green light, it will mark BYD’s third production facility in Europe, following its factories in Hungary and Turkey, which are expected to have an annual output of 500,000 vehicles. The increased tariffs on Chinese car imports, which can go as high as 35% due to alleged illegal government subsidies, along with an existing 10% tax, haven’t stopped BYD from boosting its exports and expanding its range of models in Europe. As a vertically integrated electric vehicle manufacturer, BYD produces its own batteries, allowing it to keep prices low even with the tariffs in place.

    Challenges in Germany

    Despite facing challenges related to worker productivity and the costs of labor and energy in Germany, BYD has reportedly identified the country as its preferred location for enhancing brand awareness among European consumers. Chinese officials have also been visiting Volkswagen factories that are expected to shut down, likely aiming to take advantage of the existing infrastructure and skilled workforce in those areas.

    Competing with Tesla

    Should the BYD factory in Germany come to fruition, it will directly compete with Tesla, which already operates a Gigafactory near Berlin. This facility is crucial for the complex production line adjustments and ramping up manufacturing that recently introduced the new Model Y Juniper refresh, which is a successor to the world’s best-selling vehicle, launching simultaneously from four global Gigafactories.

    Tesla’s Employee Issues

    However, Tesla is currently grappling with issues regarding employee morale at Giga Berlin. The company’s sick leave policy has reportedly led to the suspension of payments to workers whose claims are deemed questionable. Tesla has expressed concerns about the unusually high number of sick leave requests during the Model Y production ramp, challenging employees to “release their doctors from their duty of confidentiality” to clarify their health issues preventing them from working.

    This has understandably sparked backlash, as German law prohibits withholding pay from employees on sick leave. Tesla attempts to navigate this by claiming they are only withholding overpayments from prior sick leave submissions. Meanwhile, Tesla’s sales in Europe, particularly in Germany, are plunging ahead of the Model Y Juniper production increase. The upcoming quarter will be vital to determine if this decline is linked to Elon Musk’s controversial political stance or if potential customers are simply awaiting the new Model Y.

    Get the 80A Tesla Gen 2 Wall Connector with 24′ cable on Amazon.

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  • Tesla Repair Costs High, But Insurance Claims Like New Gas Cars

    Tesla Repair Costs High, But Insurance Claims Like New Gas Cars

    Key Takeaways

    1. High Repair Costs: Teslas have the highest average insurance claims, with repair costs exceeding $6,236 for electric vehicles, significantly impacting insurance rates.

    2. Comparison with Other Vehicles: Mild hybrids are the least expensive to repair, averaging $4,726 per claim, while plug-in hybrids cost about $5,583.

    3. Impact on Rental Companies: High insurance costs and long repair times have led rental companies like Hertz to avoid Tesla vehicles, resulting in financial losses for them.

    4. Concerns About Vandalism: Rising vandalism rates linked to political activities surrounding Elon Musk may lead to increased insurance premiums for Teslas.

    5. Tough Choices for Buyers: Car buyers face difficult decisions between keeping older gas-powered vehicles or opting for mild hybrids due to the high insurance rates of electric vehicles.

    Insuring a Tesla can be quite expensive, as many owners will tell you, and a recent study from parts supplier and insurance company Mitchell explains why that is.

    High Repair Costs

    Interestingly, Teslas have the highest average insurance claims compared to all other brands and types of vehicle propulsion. Last year, the average cost to repair an electric vehicle (EV) in the United States was $6,236, while Tesla repairs tend to be even more expensive. The Model Y and Model 3 contribute largely to the majority of EV claims.

    Comparison with Other Vehicles

    In contrast, mild hybrids are the least expensive to fix, averaging $4,726 per claim for insurers in the US in 2024. Plug-in hybrids, however, do not fare as well, with an average claim cost of $5,583, which is quite substantial.

    Many Tesla owners, who have received some outrageous estimates for minor repairs like bumper replacements, might believe these figures underestimate actual repair costs. It’s important to note that these are just average claims.

    Impact on Rental Companies

    The high costs of insurance and lengthy repair times have led rental companies like Hertz to shy away from Tesla vehicles, resulting in a significant loss when they sold off their Tesla EV fleet.

    In the past year, insurance rates for the top-selling electric models in the US rose by 28%. This is double the increase seen in internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, making electric cars 23% more expensive to insure, with an average rate of $3,430. Data analyst Matt Brannon mentions that as of February 2025, the “Tesla Model 3, Model Y, and Model X are the priciest EVs to insure,” with the Model 3 costing around $4,362 per year.

    Concerns About Vandalism

    The Cybertruck, which was once considered uninsurable, is close behind, with an annual insurance rate of $3,813. Insurers are also concerned about rising vandalism rates against Tesla cars linked to Elon Musk’s recent political activities, which could lead to even higher insurance premiums.

    For Tesla owners seeking reassurance, their average insurance claim cost is similar to that of newer gasoline-powered vehicles. As cars become more complex, the latest models filled with electronics and sensors recorded an average claim cost of $6,127 in the US last year. This is only slightly less than the average for electric vehicles, particularly Teslas.

    Tough Choices for Buyers

    This situation leaves car buyers in a tough spot. They have to choose between keeping their older gas-powered vehicles to avoid high insurance rates or opting for mild hybrids instead.

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    Tesla Repair Costs High, But Insurance Claims Like New Gas Cars
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  • Tesla Sales Crisis: 94% of Germans Reject Elon Musk’s EVs

    Tesla Sales Crisis: 94% of Germans Reject Elon Musk’s EVs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Declining Interest: A recent poll shows 94% of Germans would not choose to buy a Tesla, indicating a significant decrease in interest.

    2. Sales Drop: Tesla’s sales in Germany fell by 41% in 2024, with a further decline of 70.6% in early 2025, while other EV brands saw a 27% increase.

    3. Political Backlash: Elon Musk’s political activities, including ties to Germany’s far-right AFD party, are believed to negatively impact Tesla’s sales.

    4. Increased Vandalism: There is a rise in vandalism against Tesla vehicles and Superchargers, possibly linked to Musk’s controversial public actions.

    5. Market Competition: Tesla faces growing competition from brands like Volkswagen and Hyundai, as well as issues with the availability of the standard Model Y contributing to the sales downturn.

    To say that Tesla’s popularity in Germany has decreased is probably an understatement. A recent poll of 100,000 Germans indicates that the last bit of interest in buying a Tesla electric vehicle appears to have faded away. This is surprising, especially since EVs are gaining more fans overall.

    Survey Insights

    The survey, conducted by T-Online, saw a record number of participants. Results show that a whopping 94% of those surveyed said they would not choose to buy a Tesla. Tesla’s sales have already dropped by about 41% in 2024, while sales of other EV brands have increased by around 27%.

    Political Concerns

    Many believe this decline is tied to Elon Musk’s recent political activities. Experts in the industry mention that Musk’s association with Germany’s far-right AFD party has negatively affected Tesla’s sales. This party garnered roughly 20% of the vote during the last election.

    Moreover, Musk’s notable appearance at President Trump’s inauguration is unlikely to have won him fans in Germany. While one might assume that voters from this group could be potential Tesla buyers, the AFD has often criticized Tesla in the past. A specific example is the satirical advertisement that mocks a well-known German Christmas tune: “Advent, Advent a Tesla is burning.”

    Current Sales Trends

    In 2025, Tesla’s sales in Germany took another significant hit, plummeting by 70.6% just in the first two months compared to 2024. The decline isn’t limited to Germany, as sales across Europe also fell by 43.5% during the same period. The Tesla Model 3 and Model Y were particularly hard-hit, showing drops of 81.4% and 55.4%, respectively.

    In addition, there has been an uptick in vandalism targeting Tesla vehicles and Superchargers, suggesting that the sales drop may stem from personal grievances related to Musk’s controversial public actions.

    Market Competition

    Some speculate that the current sales downturn could be because the standard version of the Model Y isn’t available, while the premium version was only recently introduced. Growing competition from brands like Volkswagen, Hyundai, Toyota, Honda, and BYD is likely to complicate matters further for Tesla. Whether the new facelift of the Model Y will turn things around remains uncertain. If you already own a Tesla and are feeling uneasy about your choice, you might consider using a sticker that says, “I bought this before Elon went crazy.”

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    Tesla Sales Crisis: 94% of Germans Reject Elon Musk's EVs
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  • Tesla Rebounds in Norway and Sweden with New Model Y Launch

    Tesla Rebounds in Norway and Sweden with New Model Y Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla’s Model Y has seen a strong sales rebound in Norway with 485 registrations in March, up from 283 in February.
    2. The Model 3 also improved in Norway, with 267 units registered in March compared to 129 in February.
    3. In Sweden, the Model Y is performing well, with 318 registrations so far in March, potentially surpassing February’s total of 479.
    4. The Model 3’s sales in Sweden have declined, with only 60 units registered in March.
    5. The early data indicates a positive trend for Tesla in the Nordic market, signaling a recovery from previous sales declines in Europe.

    Tesla might be on the verge of a sales rebound in at least two Nordic nations this March, mainly due to the newly launched Model Y. Early vehicle registration data suggests that the electric SUV has reclaimed the top position in Norway, potentially marking a recovery from the company’s decline in deliveries throughout Europe.

    Norwegian Market Performance

    The Norwegian Electric Vehicle Statistics report that the Model Y has achieved 485 registrations in March, a significant increase from the 283 units recorded in February. The Model 3 follows in second place with 267 units registered, which is an uptick from the 129 units registered the previous month.

    Success in Sweden

    In Sweden, the Model Y is also seeing success, climbing to the third position. So far in March, buyers have registered 318 units, indicating it might surpass February’s total of 479. Sales have already outpaced January’s total of 299, as per data from CarUp. In contrast, the Model 3’s performance has dipped, with only 60 units registered.

    Outlook for March

    With March still ongoing, the data only provides a partial view. Nevertheless, a resurgence in Norway, known as the EV capital of the world, certainly offers a boost for Tesla after the unfavorable news surrounding global sales declines in February. The situation appears to be improving for the company, which is a positive sign moving forward.

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  • Canada’s EV Rebate Program Does Not Cover Tesla Chargers

    Canada’s EV Rebate Program Does Not Cover Tesla Chargers

    Key Takeaways

    1. B.C. Hydro has removed Tesla EV chargers from its rebate program to support locally manufactured products.
    2. Residents can still receive a subsidy of up to $350 for Level 2 EV chargers, but Tesla products purchased after March 12, 2025, will not qualify.
    3. Other U.S. EV products remain eligible for the rebate, while only four Canadian brands are included.
    4. British Columbia offers a $4,000 rebate for new electric vehicles under the Clean BC Go Electric program, but Tesla vehicles’ eligibility is uncertain.
    5. Ongoing trade tariff conflicts between the U.S. and Canada complicate the situation for companies like Tesla.

    Tesla EV charger purchasers in British Columbia will no longer receive benefits from B.C. Hydro’s EV rebate program, as it has removed products from the American manufacturer. The energy company, which is connected to the government, states that its goal is to support locally manufactured solutions and “exclude, where practicable, U.S.-produced goods.”

    Rebate Details

    Residents in British Columbia can receive a subsidy of up to $350 or half of the costs for Level 2 EV chargers. Other Tesla items impacted by this decision include energy storage systems like the Powerwall and inverters. However, any Tesla products bought prior to March 12, 2025, will still qualify for the rebate.

    Remaining Options

    At the same time, EV products from other U.S. companies are still included in the rebate program, but the list features only four Canadian brands.

    British Columbia provides a $4,000 rebate for new electric vehicles through the Clean BC Go Electric program. It is uncertain if Tesla electric vehicles will be excluded from this financial aid. Currently, the U.S. and Canada are engaged in trade tariff conflicts started by the U.S., putting major companies like Tesla in a challenging position.

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