Tag: Tesla Model 3

October 14, 2024
Model 3 Performance Range Test Underwhelms, LR RWD Hits 386 Miles
When put through a tough full-to-empty range test on the highway, nearly all Tesla Model 3 variants, except for the highest Performance model, exceeded their EPA estimates, in some cases by a significant margin.
Best Option for Efficiency
For those hunting for the most efficient Tesla, the Model 3 Long Range AWD with a Panasonic battery appears to be the best choice right now, just before the Robotaxi arrives.
This Long Range model performed exceptionally well, surpassing its official EPA estimate of 341 miles by over 20 miles, achieving a total of 365 miles on a single charge. This is nearly as efficient as the Lucid Air Pure, which is known as America’s most energy-efficient electric vehicle.
Testing Conditions
The test involved nearly new vehicles driven at a steady speed of 70 mph, with consistent tire pressure, cabin temperature, and load. The cars started from a full charge and continued until the battery was completely drained, close to the starting point, to account for any wind or elevation impacts.
In this setup, the Model 3 Performance did not do well, running out of battery 15 miles short of its official EPA range of 303 miles. The Model 3 AWD with an LG battery pack was the second least efficient, only managing to exceed its EPA range by 3 miles, while the base RWD version with the LFP battery, which is no longer available in the US, managed to beat its estimate by 5 miles.
Long Range RWD Performance
Despite these figures, those are still respectable performances. The new Long Range RWD version, which is the most affordable Tesla, stood out by exceeding its official range estimate by 23 miles, reaching an impressive total of 386 miles on a single charge, the highest of all Model 3 versions.
It has been recognized for some time that Panasonic provides batteries with superior energy density compared to LG, and the recent highway range test for the Model 3 only reinforces this finding.
However, it’s worth noting that the high-performance version seems to consume more battery than what its EPA range estimate indicates.
Tags: Long Range AWD, Performance Trim, Tesla Model 3
October 11, 2024
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.
Tags: Full Self-Driving, Tesla Cybertruck, Tesla Model 3
September 29, 2024
Tesla Model S Excels in Range Test, Model 3 Falls Short
Despite the advancements in Electric Vehicles (EVs), range anxiety continues to be a significant concern for many potential buyers. This fear often leads to hesitation, even when most modern EVs offer impressive range capabilities.
The Range Test
The automotive YouTube channel What Car recently tested 12 of the leading EVs from well-known manufacturers to see how far they could go before needing a charge. They compared these results to the official WLTP figures provided by the car makers.
The EVs included in this range test were the Tesla Model 3 RWD, Polestar 2, Renault Scenic, Kia EV9, Audi Q6 e-tron, BMW i5, Cupra Born, Volvo EX30, Hyundai Kona, Peugeot e-308 SW, Mini Cooper, and an older Tesla Model S from 2015 that has driven over 250,000 miles.
Testing Conditions
The testing was designed to reflect real driving conditions, such as stop-and-go traffic, highway driving, and some high-speed maneuvers. Unlike a previous test conducted in winter, this one took place in summer, taking advantage of favorable weather and temperature to maximize the electric range.
Surprising Results
The results were intriguing, with some unexpected outcomes based on the performance of the different EVs. Despite having the largest battery at 99.8 kWh, the Kia EV9 secured only third place by traveling 314 miles before running out of charge. The Renault Scenic followed closely behind in second place, reaching 322 miles with an efficiency of 3.7 miles/kWh.
The Polestar 2 emerged as the leader of the range test, achieving an impressive 333 miles thanks to its efficiency of 4.2 miles/kWh. However, it was not the most efficient vehicle in the test; that title went to the Model 3, which managed only 255 miles—about 19.7% lower than its WLTP estimate—yet boasted a commendable efficiency of 4.4 miles/kWh.
Notably, the nearly decade-old Model S 90D, which has over 260,000 miles on the odometer, still managed a respectable range of 213 miles despite its age and battery wear. This aligns with previous findings indicating that even after extensive use, EVs remain practical for daily driving with adequate range.
What Car? via YouTube
Tags: Kia EV9, Polestar 2, Tesla Model 3
July 4, 2024
BYD Closing in on Tesla: A New Leader in EV Sales?
The competition in the electric vehicle market continues at full speed. Naturally, when we talk about this competition, two companies come to mind: Tesla, founded by Elon Musk in the US, and BYD, China’s rising star. While Tesla currently holds the lead, it has emerged that China’s BYD is catching up with sales. Here are the details…
BYD Surges, Challenging Tesla’s Sales Dominance
The competition between Tesla and BYD is becoming increasingly exciting. As Elon Musk’s company reaches saturation, the Chinese manufacturer continues to grow steadily. This, of course, is causing the gap between the two companies to narrow. In terms of numbers, BYD increased its sales by 21% in the second quarter of 2024, achieving 426,039 EV sales.
This figure is just 17,000 less than the 443,956 vehicles sold by Tesla during the same period. Considering BYD’s presence in fewer countries and its lower brand recognition, this achievement is quite impressive. It is also worth noting the significant role that China plays in the EV market.
Pricing and Market Strategy
Of course, the situation can be explained very clearly. While Tesla mainly produces high-priced vehicles such as the Cybertruck, BYD is known for its more affordable EVs. Despite affecting sales, Tesla maintains a strong profitability advantage. In June, Tesla’s EV sales in China dropped by 24.2% from the previous year to 71,007 units, marking the third consecutive annual decline.
Although the Chinese market appears challenging, trade tensions could alter this outlook. For instance, the European Union plans to restrict imports of Chinese electric vehicles, potentially boosting interest in Western brands like Tesla. It’s also noteworthy that Tesla is developing more affordable models. Nevertheless, warning signs are evident for Elon Musk’s company at present.
Tags: BYD Seal, EV Market Competition, Tesla Model 3
June 14, 2024
Elon Musk Teases New Tesla Models as Sales Drop
In a bid to potentially revive waning sales, Tesla CEO Elon Musk hinted at the introduction of new electric vehicles during the company’s annual shareholder meeting on Thursday. This announcement followed the shareholders' approval of Musk’s substantial $56 billion compensation package.
Musk showcased a slide featuring three new illustrations for upcoming vehicles
With a product range seen as outdated and a decline in sales figures, Tesla is in dire need of a product update. Although details were sparse, Musk did present a slide revealing illustrations of three new vehicles covered in white sheets, igniting speculation and anticipation.
New Products in the Pipeline
“We obviously have some new products we’re working on behind the scenes,” Musk stated, showing optimism that these new additions would be “pretty special.” The silhouettes provided some hints: a tall, boxy van-like vehicle alongside two lower, sleeker designs.
One potential candidate among the veiled vehicles could be Tesla’s eagerly awaited robotaxi, which is set for unveiling on August 8th. Additionally, Tesla has previously announced an accelerated rollout of new models, including more affordable options, expected to debut in late 2024 or early 2025.
Previous Teases and Future Plans
This isn't Tesla's first instance of hinting at new arrivals. In their April “Master Plan Part 3” document, the company suggested the possibility of Tesla-made compact cars, commercial vans, and even buses, although their status remains “to be determined.”
Tags: Elon Musk, New Vehicles, Tesla Model 3
January 23, 2024
Tesla to Introduce Cybertruck in Shanghai, Beijing, and 6 Other Chinese Cities
Tesla is taking its Cybertruck on a national tour in China, with stops in eight major cities including Shanghai and Beijing. The tour is set to begin at the end of January 2024 and will unveil eight Cybertrucks simultaneously. This move by Tesla aims to increase brand awareness and showcase the unique features of its electric pickup truck to a wider audience.
Showcasing the Cybertruck in Person
In 2022, Tesla temporarily suspended Cybertruck orders and only offered an option to "get updates" on its official website. However, the upcoming national tour provides an opportunity for potential buyers and enthusiasts to see the Cybertruck in person. This hands-on experience will allow people to get a better understanding of the vehicle's design and features.
Addressing Legal Concerns
The distinctive design of the Cybertruck, with its stainless steel body and unconventional size, has raised concerns about its legality on Chinese roads. Tesla CEO Elon Musk has previously acknowledged these concerns. Despite this, the national tour serves as a strategic move to increase the brand's visibility and generate excitement around this groundbreaking electric vehicle.
Impressive Specifications and Pricing
The Cybertruck made its debut four years ago and had its first deliveries in December 2023 at the Austin Gigafactory in Texas, USA. Tesla offers multiple variants of the Cybertruck to cater to diverse consumer preferences. The rear-wheel-drive version starts at $60,990 (437,000 yuan), the all-wheel-drive model is priced at $79,990 (~~574,000 yuan), and the high-performance beast version costs $99,999 (~~717,000 yuan). Each variant comes with impressive specifications, including acceleration times and top speeds, making the Cybertruck an enticing choice for electric vehicle enthusiasts.
Innovative Features
In addition to its unique design and performance, the Cybertruck offers a spacious and tech-savvy interior. It features an expansive 18.5-inch touchscreen in the front and a 9.4-inch touchscreen in the rear. The vehicle also includes an innovative user interface, wireless mobile phone charging pad, 65W USB-C interface, and a 120V/240V socket. These features enhance the overall driving experience and demonstrate Tesla's commitment to innovation.
The Cybertruck national tour in China is an exciting opportunity for Tesla to showcase its electric pickup truck to a wider audience. With its distinctive design, impressive specifications, and innovative features, the Cybertruck is poised to make a significant impact in the electric vehicle market.
Tags: Tesla Cybertruck, Tesla Model 3
December 25, 2023
Lucid Motors Readies to Rival Tesla with Affordable $50,000 Electric Vehicle
Lucid Motors, the well-known manufacturer of premium electric vehicles, has announced its plans to enter the mid-sized electric car market with a $50,000 vehicle. This strategic move positions the California-based company as a direct competitor to Tesla, specifically targeting the market dominated by Tesla's Model 3 and Model Y.
Transitioning from luxury to more affordable models is a common path for emerging car companies. Lucid, which initially focused on high-end electric vehicles such as the $80,000 Air sedan and the $249,000 Air Sapphire, is now shifting its attention to the more mainstream segment of everyday family cars. This shift is significant, especially considering the recent statement made by Lucid's CEO, Peter Rawlinson, about the company's intention to compete in the high-volume family car market.
One advantage that Lucid brings to this new venture is its expertise in battery technology. Having started as a battery company, Lucid can leverage its knowledge to offer superior range in its upcoming models. This is a crucial factor for many electric vehicle buyers, as range anxiety remains a common concern.
Furthermore, Lucid can learn from Tesla's experiences, particularly in terms of quality control. Early Tesla models, such as the Model 3 and Model Y, faced criticisms over minor quality issues. Lucid has the opportunity to address these issues from the start and set a new standard in electric vehicle build quality.
However, entering this competitive market segment will not be without challenges for Lucid. Tesla and other established automakers already have a strong presence in the mid-sized electric car market. To truly stand out, Lucid will need to find the right balance between affordability, quality, and range.
In conclusion, Lucid Motors is making a bold move by entering the mid-sized electric car market with a $50,000 vehicle. Leveraging its expertise in battery technology and learning from Tesla's experiences, Lucid has the potential to carve out a significant market share. However, the company will need to overcome the challenges posed by established competitors to establish itself as a prominent player in the segment.
Tags: launch events, Lucid Motors, Tesla Model 3
December 23, 2023
New Megapack Battery Factory Establishes Tesla’s Expanding Presence in Shanghai
Tesla, the renowned electric vehicle (EV) and clean energy company, is expanding its presence in China by purchasing land in Shanghai for a new factory dedicated to producing its Megapack large-scale batteries. This move signifies Tesla’s commitment to China’s growing new-energy market and its strategic expansion beyond electric cars.
Tesla’s Focus on Energy Storage Solutions
The new factory in Shanghai, which will be located in the Lingang free-trade zone, will be Tesla’s first facility outside the US solely focused on energy-storage batteries. By venturing into energy storage, Tesla aims to not only lead in electric vehicle production but also in providing solutions for energy storage needs. Their Megapack batteries, with the capability to power 3,600 homes for one hour, play a crucial role in addressing the increasing demand for energy storage, an essential component of the renewable energy landscape.
Competing in China’s EV Market
Interestingly, Tesla’s decision to expand its energy storage operations in China comes at a time when the EV market in the country is experiencing rapid growth and heightened competition. While Tesla has been a dominant player in China’s premium EV segment, local Chinese companies such as Li Auto and Xpeng are quickly catching up. These companies have been breaking monthly sales records and offering stiff competition to Tesla.
Strategic Response to China’s New-Energy Sector
The construction of the Megapack factory is a strategic response by Tesla to not only solidify its position in the EV market but also to tap into the broader new-energy sector in China. With the country’s ambitious goals of achieving peak carbon emissions by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2060, there is a significant opportunity for Tesla’s energy storage products. By localizing production, Tesla can better serve the Chinese market and also export these products to other countries. This latest move positions Tesla as a key player in the green energy revolution, as the world increasingly shifts towards renewable energy and sustainable practices.
Conclusion
Tesla’s purchase of land in Shanghai for a new Megapack factory demonstrates its commitment to expanding its presence in China’s new-energy market. By focusing on energy storage solutions, Tesla aims to address the growing demand for energy storage and solidify its position as a leader in the renewable energy landscape. With competition intensifying in China’s EV market, this strategic move allows Tesla to maintain its dominance while also capitalizing on the broader new-energy sector. As the world transitions to greener energy practices, Tesla’s expansion positions the company at the forefront of the green energy revolution.
Tags: Megapack, Shanghai, Tesla Model 3
December 21, 2023
Tesla’s Home Garage Pad: Wireless Charging for Tesla Electric Vehicles
Tesla Developing Inductive Wireless Charging Solution for Home Garages
Tesla’s Innovative Approach to Home Charging
Reports suggest that Tesla is actively engaged in the development of an inductive wireless charging system tailored for the garages of its electric automobile users. Franz von Holzhausen, Head of Design at Tesla, disclosed details about "Project Garfield," an initiative designed to introduce a novel charging alternative to the conventional Superchargers and wall chargers. This pioneering solution not only aims to alleviate congestion at charging points but also strives to enhance convenience for Tesla vehicle owners.
Revolutionizing Traditional Home Charging
The proposed wireless charging mechanism involves the installation of charging pads on the garage floor, enabling Tesla drivers to effortlessly charge their vehicles by driving over the designated area. This innovation is poised to reduce the dependence on traditional wall chargers and mitigate instances where owners inadvertently overlook plugging in their cars overnight.
Tesla’s Strategic Foray into Wireless Charging Technology
Evidence of Tesla’s interest in wireless charging technology emerged during the 2023 Investor Day presentation. A glimpse into a Hollywood Supercharger drive-in showcased what resembled a wireless charging pad situated in a garage, with a parked Model S vehicle atop it. Furthermore, Tesla’s acquisition of Wiferion, a wireless charging firm, during the summer affirmed the company’s commitment to wireless charging advancement. The acquisition, conducted discreetly, saw Tesla seizing Wiferion’s assets while retaining its proficient engineering team.
Enhancing User Experience Through Efficient Charging
The incorporation of wireless charging pads heralds a paradigm shift in the charging process, promising an enhanced user experience. Von Holzhausen envisions a streamlined charging journey where users can effortlessly "pull up in your garage, drive over the pad, and you’re charging." Although specific details regarding the technology’s release timeline remain undisclosed, Tesla’s venture into wireless charging signifies a significant stride towards refining the landscape of electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
Tags: Project Garfield, Tesla Model 3, wireless charging
December 13, 2023
Cybertruck’s Range Gets Boosted to 500 Miles with Tesla’s Optional Extender
Tesla Introduces Optional Range Extender Battery Pack for Cybertruck
Tesla is addressing the concerns raised about the range of its Cybertruck by announcing an optional range extender battery pack. This add-on feature aims to increase the range of the Cybertruck from 300 miles to the promised 500 miles. The introduction of the range extender is in line with Tesla's commitment to innovation and its response to the evolving needs of electric vehicle (EV) users.
Addressing Displeasure with the Cybertruck's Range
Upon the release of the Cybertruck, many people expressed dissatisfaction with its range. Tesla's decision to introduce the range extender is an attempt to address this concern. Initially, there was an expectation that the Cybertruck would achieve a 500-mile range with a single battery. However, Tesla is now offering the range extender as a separate feature to potentially fulfill this promise.
Luxury Rather Than Necessity
Tesla recognizes that the average daily commute is significantly less than the 340-mile range offered by the Cybertruck's main battery. As a result, the additional range provided by the optional battery pack is positioned as a luxury rather than a necessity. This approach allows Tesla to cater to the needs of customers who require a longer range while conserving valuable resources for broader EV production.
Maximizing EV Production
Tesla's decision to offer an optional range extender also reflects its strategic focus on resource allocation. In a world where battery materials are scarce, Tesla aims to maximize the production of EVs by equipping individual vehicles with smaller, more efficient batteries. This approach ensures that resources are used efficiently and supports Tesla's commitment to sustainable manufacturing.
Balancing Customer Desires and Sustainability
By introducing the optional range extender, Tesla appears to be striking a balance between fulfilling specific customer desires and adhering to a sustainable manufacturing philosophy. This strategy not only offers flexibility to those who need it but also conserves valuable resources for broader EV production. It remains to be seen whether this approach will be successful in meeting customer expectations while maintaining environmental responsibility.
In conclusion, Tesla's announcement of an optional range extender battery pack for the Cybertruck addresses concerns about its range. This add-on feature aims to increase the range from 300 miles to 500 miles, providing customers with greater flexibility. Tesla's decision reflects a deeper understanding of user habits and a commitment to maximizing EV production while conserving valuable resources. Only time will tell if this strategy proves successful for the company.
Tags: Range Extension, Tesla Cybertruck, Tesla Model 3