Tag: Tesla Cybertruck

  • LG Develops Cheaper 4680 Battery for Tesla Cybertruck in US

    LG Develops Cheaper 4680 Battery for Tesla Cybertruck in US

    Key Takeaways

    1. LG Chem has developed a new cathode that eliminates the need for precursors, leading to cheaper and better-performing battery cells in cold weather.

    2. Production of these new cathodes is set to begin by July at LG’s new Arizona factory, which will also manufacture 4680 batteries for Tesla.

    3. The Arizona facility will produce both 4680 batteries for Tesla’s Cybertruck and affordable LFP cells for lower-cost electric vehicles and energy storage.

    4. Tesla has developed a cost-saving dry cathode production technique, allowing for more efficient and cost-effective battery production.

    5. LG’s Arizona plant will have a capacity of 53 GWh, with plans adjusted to focus on 4680 batteries instead of the initially planned 2170 cells.

    Tesla’s battery partner, LG Chem, has made a significant advancement with a new type of cathode that doesn’t require precursors. This innovation is expected to result in less expensive battery cells that perform better in cold weather.

    Production Timeline

    Production for these new cathodes is set to kick off by July. LG plans to implement this technology in its new factory in Arizona, which is scheduled to open next year.

    Battery Types and Applications

    The Arizona facility will manufacture 4680 batteries specifically for Tesla, along with affordable LFP cells aimed at lower-cost electric vehicles and energy storage solutions. Tesla is also gearing up to release a more budget-friendly RWD version of the Cybertruck, which has already been listed in the federal IRS database for electric vehicle tax credits.

    To meet demand, Tesla will require a substantial supply of 4680 batteries, as there are reports that the Cybercab will also use a variant of these batteries, in addition to plans for the refreshed Model Y Juniper.

    Cost Concerns and Production Efficiency

    Tesla’s initial worry regarding the 4680 battery was its inability to produce them at a cost-effective rate, unlike suppliers like LG or Panasonic. However, Tesla has now successfully developed a cost-saving dry cathode production technique, which will likely complement its existing output.

    In the past, LG has stated that it has also perfected the production process, which can be utilized for both anodes and cathodes, resulting in a 30% reduction in the costs of 4680 batteries. Additionally, production facilities and energy usage can be reduced by half since there’s no need for harmful solvents or baking equipment, unlike the traditional wet method.

    Facility Capacity and Adjustments

    LG’s battery plant in Arizona is expected to reach a full capacity output of 53 GWh, with a large portion of that dedicated to producing 4680 cells for Tesla’s Cybertruck, Cybercab, Model Y, and more.

    “To proactively meet market needs for 46-Series batteries, the company altered its original plan for the facility, which was initially designed to produce 2170 cells with an annual capacity of 27 GWh, instead opting to manufacture 46-Series batteries at an expanded capacity of 36 GWh,” LG mentioned at the time.

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  • Las Vegas Police Get 10 Tesla Cybertrucks from Anonymous Donor

    Las Vegas Police Get 10 Tesla Cybertrucks from Anonymous Donor

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) will receive 10 Tesla Cybertrucks as a donation for patrol and SWAT teams.
    2. The Cybertrucks feature bullet-proof capabilities and aim to enhance officer recruitment without financial strain on taxpayers.
    3. The announcement was made by LVMPD Sheriff Kelvin McMahill during the 2025 State of the Department event.
    4. The identity of the donor remains unknown, and Tesla is seeking to boost Cybertruck sales amid slower-than-expected demand.
    5. The Cybertrucks will work alongside the LVMPD’s semi-autonomous drones equipped with shot-spotting technology.

    Crime-fighting in Las Vegas is about to get a high-tech upgrade as a secret donor gifts 10 Tesla Cybertrucks to the local police. These electric vehicles will become part of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department’s (LVMPD) patrol and SWAT teams.

    Exciting Announcement

    LVMPD Sheriff Kelvin McMahill shared the news during Metro’s 2025 State of the Department event. He expressed, “We’re thrilled to announce the addition of 10 Tesla Cybertrucks to our fleet! These innovative vehicles will be tailored for LVMPD patrol and SWAT, empowering our officers to protect and serve with the most advanced technology available.”

    Features and Benefits

    McMahill highlighted the truck’s bullet-proof features and its potential to attract new recruits, ensuring that taxpayers won’t see a burden on the department’s finances. The police chief described the truck as “badass” in a post on X, showcasing a design of a specially modified Cybertruck.

    A Mysterious Donor

    While the identity of the donor remains unknown, it appears that the Cybertruck has not been selling as quickly as Tesla had hoped, leading to a buildup of inventory. To boost demand, Tesla has experimented with several strategies, such as offering free wraps, significant discounts, and lowered lease rates.

    The Cybertrucks will complement the LVMPD’s semi-autonomous drones, which utilize shot-spotting technology to locate suspects effectively.

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  • BYD’s Denza EV: 20-Degree Steering for Easy Parking and Crab Walk

    BYD’s Denza EV: 20-Degree Steering for Easy Parking and Crab Walk

    Key Takeaways

    1. Rear Wheel Steering: The BYD Denza Z9 GT features a 20-degree rear wheel steering system, providing superior maneuverability compared to Tesla’s Cybertruck, which has a maximum of 10 degrees.

    2. Compact Parking Capability: The Denza Z9 GT can parallel park in extremely tight spaces nearly as long as the car itself, showcasing its innovative parking technology.

    3. Advanced Drivetrain: It includes a Sanfang drivetrain with three independent motors, enhancing its turning and handling capabilities.

    4. User-Friendly Parking System: The innovative parking system allows the vehicle to slide into parking spots with minimal input, making it easier for inexperienced drivers.

    5. BYD’s Innovative Reputation: The company continues to demonstrate impressive technology in its vehicles, building on its reputation for innovation in the automotive market.

    Tesla’s Cybertruck may have rear steering that allows it to make sharp turns, but the BYD Denza Z9 GT shooting brake takes it a step further by being able to parallel park in incredibly tight spots that are nearly as long as the car itself, thanks to its unique crab walking rear wheels.

    A Showcase of Capability

    Recently, BYD showcased the Denza Z9 GT’s features once again, reminding everyone of its capabilities right before its launch in Europe and other markets.

    The Z9 GT comes with both electric and plug-in hybrid options, and it has a steering motor for each rear wheel, enabling impressive maneuverability for turning, handling, or parking.

    Advanced Steering Technology

    BYD’s state-of-the-art 20-degree rear wheel steering puts Tesla’s Cybertruck to shame, as Tesla initially offered just 3-degree steering and later mentioned a 10-degree upgrade. In comparison, the Denza shooting brake, which is larger than a Porsche Panamera, boasts a turning radius of only 4.62 m (15.2 ft) and can crab-walk at a 15-degree angle to weave between obstacles.

    One of the coolest features of the advanced Sanfang drivetrain with three independent motors is its ability to parallel park in extremely compact spaces almost as long as the vehicle itself.

    Innovative Parking System

    The system works by moving the right rear wheel forward while the left rear wheel moves in reverse, allowing the car to slide into a parking spot with just a simple tap on the central console display. While this might seem to put extra strain on the tires, it could certainly help an inexperienced driver get out of tricky situations from time to time.

    Even though the 965 PS powertrain, dual-chamber air suspension, pillar-to-pillar display, and two refrigerators are all impressive features, it’s such a clever trick that will likely impress car enthusiasts as BYD aims to build its new premium Denza brand.

    BYD’s History of Innovation

    BYD is certainly familiar with such impressive feats, having recently shown how its Yangwang hypercar can utilize the dual-chamber air suspension to briefly leap over potholes and even spike strips when necessary.

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  • Tesla Cybertruck Price Drops with Government Tax Credit

    Tesla Cybertruck Price Drops with Government Tax Credit

    While the Tesla Cybertruck has a lower percentage of parts made in the US or Canada compared to other American pickups like the Honda Ridgeline, it still qualifies for the federal tax credit. This is because its 4680 battery pack cells are produced and assembled in Texas.

    Timing for Tax Credit Eligibility

    However, there was a waiting period before it could receive the $7,500 discount from the IRS, which manages the new EV tax credit. Tesla took steps to lower the Cybertruck’s price to fall below the tax credit limit around four months ago. This was done when they began configuring non-Foundation Series units, which made the pickup $20,000 less expensive.

    Pricing Details

    In its first Foundation Series edition, the dual-motor AWD trim was priced near $100,000. Similarly, the 2026 Model Y Launch Series edition is now priced over $60,000, which includes the Full Self-Driving (FSD) feature and exclusive badging as part of a package deal. In contrast, the starting price for non-Foundation Series models is $79,990, which allows the Cybertruck to qualify for the federal tax credit for electric SUVs and pickups under the $80,000 threshold.

    Waiting Period for Tax Credit

    Despite this, a full quarter needed to pass before the Cybertruck could take advantage of the tax credit as a privately owned vehicle during the next quarter. The IRS had already added it to their list of qualifying vehicles at the beginning of the year, alongside a more affordable RWD version expected to launch this year. However, Tesla was only allowed to apply the tax credit starting from the first business day of February.

    Now, the Cybertruck’s price is much more reasonable than when it first launched at $99,990. After applying the $1,000 referral credit and military discount, and before any state incentives, the starting price is just above $70,000. This brings it very close to the average price of pickups sold in the US, whether electric or gas. However, with the Trump administration looking to eliminate new EV subsidies, there may be a limited time for the Cybertruck tax credit to remain in effect.

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    Tesla Cybertruck Price Drops with Government Tax Credit
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  • Lucid Beats Tesla in Charging Speed: Cybertruck vs Gravity

    Lucid Beats Tesla in Charging Speed: Cybertruck vs Gravity

    Lucid’s latest SUV, the Gravity, isn’t just the electric SUV with the longest range; it might also be the fastest to charge when it connects to Tesla’s Supercharger network later this week.

    Tesla’s Upgrade

    Tesla recently shared that all V4 Superchargers in North America have been enhanced to deliver a charging output of 325 kW. This specific number appears to have been selected as the highest that the Cybertruck, which is the only vehicle equipped with a modern 800V powertrain, can currently manage.

    Early tests with the Cybertruck at the new 325 kW Superchargers showed average results since this peak speed couldn’t be maintained for more than a few minutes. The charging rate quickly dropped off, and the electric pickup took only 90 seconds less to recharge than it would at a 250 kW V3 Supercharger.

    Issues with Battery Technology

    The problem seems to stem from the 4680 battery, which has a reputation for poor charging performance. While it’s not as bad as the first generation seen in some Model Y vehicles, it’s still an issue that Tesla has been trying to resolve with a recent over-the-air update for the Cybertruck.

    On the flip side, Lucid collaborated with Panasonic to modify its newest battery generation for the Gravity SUV, equipping it with a 926V powertrain. This has resulted in an electric SUV that boasts a range of 450 miles on a charge from the same 123 kWh battery that allows the Cybertruck to achieve 320 miles, plus it supports ultrafast 400 kW charging.

    Impressive Charging Capabilities

    The Gravity can gain 200 miles of range in just 12 minutes at Tesla’s V4 Superchargers. In contrast, the Cybertruck can only add 150 miles in 15 minutes due to Tesla’s recent OTA charging improvement, making it hard for the Cybertruck to match the Gravity’s performance.

    Additionally, Lucid has made the Gravity the first non-Tesla vehicle to come with an integrated NACS charging port, allowing it to utilize Superchargers directly. Therefore, the first charging comparisons between the Cybertruck and Gravity after the 325 kW V4 upgrade—which is expected to reach 500 kW later this year—should be coming soon.

    Tesla and Lucid are competing in an exciting electric vehicle market, and it’s clear that both companies are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in terms of range and charging speed.

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  • UK Police Confiscate Tesla Cybertruck Over Safety Issues

    UK Police Confiscate Tesla Cybertruck Over Safety Issues

    A Tesla Cybertruck has landed in the UK, but its time on the road was cut short. The vehicle was seized by UK police, who classified it as illegal and hazardous.

    Driver’s Joyride Ends in Trouble

    The Greater Manchester Police (GMP) shared on social media that the driver took the Cybertruck for a joyride in Whitefield. They raised alarms about the potential risks posed to other motorists and pedestrians if the Cybertruck were to get involved in an accident.

    Demonstration Purposes Only

    Tesla brought the Cybertruck to the UK solely for showcasing at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. However, it has not been granted a certificate of conformity, meaning it can’t be used on public roads.

    The Cybertruck was registered and insured in a different country, which is against the law. The UK driver has been “reported” and is facing consequences for operating a vehicle without proper insurance.

    North American Market Focus

    Currently, Tesla is marketing the Cybertruck in North America, where road safety regulations are somewhat alike. The electric vehicle manufacturer has yet to announce any intentions to sell the futuristic pickup truck outside of North America.

    Interestingly, some enthusiasts have managed to acquire the steel truck outside of North America. Customs officials in Lithuania intercepted two units, while some Cybertrucks have been spotted with Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov, who has modified them with machine guns.

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  • Cybertruck Price Cut for Non-Foundation Models Ahead of 2025 Release

    Cybertruck Price Cut for Non-Foundation Models Ahead of 2025 Release

    The IRS, which manages the federal EV tax credit program, has surprisingly added a single-motor Cybertruck to its list of eligible electric vehicles for 2025. Before the Cybertruck’s debut, Tesla had a reservations list featuring a rear-wheel drive (RWD) model as the least expensive option, the one that Elon Musk mentioned would begin at around $40,000 long ago.

    Tesla’s Launch Strategy

    However, Tesla initially rolled out only the pricier dual- and tri-motor Cybertruck models, including exclusive Foundation Series options that commenced at $100,000. Elon Musk suggested that the base single-motor electric pickup would be saved for a 2025 release, anticipating that by that time, the company would have enough supply of 4680 batteries and that early buyers would have snatched up the more costly variants.

    Current Developments

    It looks like that moment has arrived. Not only has Tesla halted the production of Foundation Series trims, but they’ve also begun to manufacture dual-motor and Cyberbeast trucks priced $20,000 less. Additionally, Tesla is now implementing direct price reductions on non-Foundation series Cybertrucks.

    The initial price cuts for the Cybertruck are being applied to inventory vehicles, with a reduction of $1,600 or up to $2,630 for demonstration models. When combined with referral and tax credits, the cost of an inventory Cybertruck is now closer to $70,000 rather than $80,000.

    Future Pricing Implications

    Whenever Tesla introduces discounts on inventory, it typically follows up with a more significant price drop. Therefore, a direct price cut on the Cybertruck is a possibility. If the IRS has preemptively listed the RWD Cybertruck as an eligible 2025 vehicle based on information from Tesla, this could potentially lower the starting price to around $60,000.

    While it won’t reach the promised $40,000 from years ago, it’s certainly a far cry from the $100,000 launch price. This could lead to a noticeable increase in new Cybertruck sales later this year, especially as initial enthusiasm fades and manufactured models sit unsold.

    Impact on the Used Market

    Nonetheless, a more affordable RWD Cybertruck, along with reduced prices for the dual- and tri-motor versions, is likely to significantly impact the second-hand market. Many buyers who paid over a hundred thousand for Tesla’s first electric pickup might see their investment plummet by as much as 30% in value within the first year of ownership.

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    Cybertruck Price Cut for Non-Foundation Models Ahead of 2025 Release
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  • Explosives-Laden Cybertruck’s Stainless Steel Body Holds Up Well

    Explosives-Laden Cybertruck’s Stainless Steel Body Holds Up Well

    In a series of incidents that might be linked, a Tesla Cybertruck was rented via Turo, filled with fireworks, gas canisters, and camping fuel, then exploded outside the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas.

    Aftermath of the Explosion

    After the explosion, Elon Musk remarked that the Tesla electric truck, known for its stainless steel structure, was probably the worst choice for the individuals behind the blast. The body panels are almost twice as thick compared to standard sheet metal used in other trucks, which helped to restrict the explosion’s impact.

    Law Enforcement Response

    Authorities have shared images of the Cybertruck, showing that its stainless steel shell indeed played a role in minimizing the damage. The truck bed, packed with explosives, remained intact, and the body suffered little damage. Remarkably, the tires also appeared to be undamaged, avoiding any blowouts or deflation.

    According to a law enforcement source, the construction of the Cybertruck may have been beneficial in containing the destruction from the blast:

    "The fact that this was a Cybertruck really limited the damage that occurred. Most of the explosion went upward through the truck. Not even the front glass doors of the Trump hotel were broken, despite being right in line with the blast."

    Communication with Authorities

    Elon Musk and the Tesla team were in touch with local law enforcement who were looking into the explosion, providing insights about how the Cybertruck "locked after it exploded due to the nature of the force from the explosion."

    Ultimately, the only person who died was the individual inside the Cybertruck who allegedly caused the detonation, while seven others nearby suffered only minor injuries, thanks to the stainless steel pickup that kept the explosion mostly contained.

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  • Elon Musk Highlights Test Driver Boredom Before Model Y FSD Launch

    Elon Musk Highlights Test Driver Boredom Before Model Y FSD Launch

    Tesla might soon submit the required paperwork to get regulatory approval for its Full Self-Driving (FSD) feature to be used without any driver oversight, meaning no warnings or restrictions for the driver.

    Future Plans for Tesla Vehicles

    Elon Musk believes that by next year, Tesla will get the go-ahead for unsupervised FSD, effectively transforming the Model 3 and Model Y into a type of robotaxi, along with the Cybertruck and its other models.

    Challenges with the Robotaxi

    The newly announced Robotaxi by Tesla won’t be able to operate by itself right away. This is because it won’t begin mass production until 2026 at the earliest. Additionally, it will be tougher for regulators to approve its use as a self-driving vehicle since it lacks a steering wheel or pedals.

    Musk pointed out that one of the hurdles to gaining regulatory approval for unsupervised FSD is the boredom of test drivers. To get the necessary permits, Tesla needs to clearly show regulators that it has collected a significant amount of miles driven without any interventions or accidents.

    Statistics and Driver Experience

    He emphasized that the system is improving so much that gathering those statistics is becoming a challenge. Tesla aims to have more vehicles equipped with FSD on the roads, and is currently providing APR financing deals to help meet that goal.

    When it gets to thousands of miles without needing an intervention, the requirement is 10,000 miles for just one intervention. The average driver typically covers about 10,000 miles in a year. In cities, the average speed is around 20 mph. Our professional test drivers often feel bored, honestly. They might say, "I drove all week and there was no intervention." The highlight for them is when they finally get an intervention!

    Geographic Limitations

    Elon did mention that unsupervised FSD will initially be limited to geofenced areas in Texas and California. This means regulators may only allow its use in specific regions and routes, resembling how Waymo’s self-driving cars function.

    He also noted that Tesla is prepared to expand unsupervised FSD to any US area that grants approval, as well as internationally. However, Europe and China are expected to approve the current supervised FSD next year, and the unsupervised version may take longer.

    Regulatory Hurdles Ahead

    Currently, FSD is classified as a Level 2 driver-assist system, so moving to Level 4 or 5 next year could be quite ambitious unless Tesla agrees to adhere to many of the regulatory constraints that other autonomous public transit systems already follow. In summary, if unsupervised FSD does roll out in 2025, it will likely have a limited scope.

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  • Geico Cites Cybertruck Repair Issues for Insurance Cancellations

    Geico Cites Cybertruck Repair Issues for Insurance Cancellations

    Geico has addressed the concerns raised by owners of the Cybertruck regarding denied insurance renewals. The company pointed to the vehicle’s weight and high repair costs as contributing factors, stating that "some customers may have received notices indicating that PPA insurance would not be renewed for this vehicle."

    Availability of Insurance

    Despite these issues, Geico continues to provide private passenger automobile (PPA) insurance for the Cybertruck. For those who do not meet the criteria for PPA, Geico suggests considering their commercial vehicle policies as an alternative.

    Geico offers coverage nationwide for the Tesla Cybertruck. Due to its gross weight and the challenges related to parts availability for repair shops, some customers may have received notifications about the non-renewal of PPA insurance for this specific vehicle. However, insurance policies for the Cybertruck have always been accessible through the commercial insurance division, and PPA is still available. Geico plans to contact any customers who might have gotten a non-renewal notice.

    Cost Implications

    While it may seem unusual to cite the Cybertruck’s gross weight, which ranges from 8,834 lb (4,007 kg) to 9,169 lb (4,159 kg), as a reason for insurance cancellation, the difficulties in repairs certainly make sense. Geico has pointed out the shortage of Cybertruck parts as a justification for denying policy renewals, and evidence from rental companies with electric vehicle fleets supports this perspective.

    Hertz recently held a major sale of its Model 3 fleet, not just because they purchased the vehicles at high prices but also because repairs were slow and their insurance costs were quite high. Research by Gartner indicates that by the time electric vehicle prices match those of gas-powered cars, repair costs and insurance rates are expected to soar.

    Future Trends

    By 2027, it’s anticipated that the average cost for a serious accident repair involving an EV body and battery will rise by 30%. Consequently, vehicles that experience collisions may be more likely to be written off entirely, as repairing them could exceed their remaining value. Additionally, higher repair costs may lead to increased insurance premiums or even result in insurance companies declining coverage for certain car models.

    The high costs of electric vehicle repairs are partly due to the limited availability of replacement parts and the extensive use of gigacasting in manufacturing, including for the Cybertruck. As Tesla’s chief engineer Lars Moravy explains, the front and rear gigacast sections of the Cybertruck act as crush cans with built-in crumple zones. If these sections are damaged in an accident to protect passengers, it leads to significant repair expenses for insurers.

    In the UK, insurers have either refused to cover the Model Y or imposed steep premiums due to the high costs associated with repairing its gigacast rear. In response, Tesla redesigned this component and provided it to repair shops at cost, along with tutorials for replacement, to ease the insurers’ concerns.

    Insurers’ Reactions

    Similar issues may be influencing Geico’s justification for the Cybertruck’s high repair costs in relation to insurance renewals. Other insurers in the US are also recognizing these trends; a prospective Progressive customer received a rejection letter for a new Cybertruck insurance policy after coming from Geico.

    Even when Geico does offer PPA insurance for the Cybertruck, the costs can be quite steep. One owner reported being quoted $3,185 for a six-month insurance term.

    MunroLive (YT), TorqueNews’

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