Tag: Tesla

  • Tesla Simplifies Identification of HW4 and HW3 Vehicles with License Plates

    Tesla Simplifies Identification of HW4 and HW3 Vehicles with License Plates

    Tesla has made it simpler for users to determine if their vehicles are equipped with HW3 or HW4 Full Self-Driving (FSD) cameras and processing power.

    With the most recent software update, version 2024.38, users can now view the FSD hardware version right in the additional vehicle info submenu. By selecting the Additional Vehicle Information option located under the FSD computer section in the Controls > Software menu, drivers can see if their Tesla features HW4, HW3, or the older HW2.5 setup.

    Understanding FSD Hardware Designations

    Tesla has rebranded Hardware 4.0 as the AI4 computer, which is how it appears in the fresh FSD hardware version display option. Previously, identifying whether a Tesla has a HW3 or HW4 kit has been quite complex, relying on physical traits such as the red tint associated with AI4 cameras or the vehicle’s delivery date.

    Although HW4 vehicles are still relatively rare, they were the first to receive the FSD 12.5 update. Tesla’s AI chief has indicated that these vehicles will also be prioritized for the forthcoming FSD 13 update, which includes new features.

    Free Upgrades for HW3 Vehicles

    Elon Musk has stated that if HW3 vehicles are unable to support the unsupervised FSD that comes with the v13 update, they will be upgraded to the AI4 computer at no cost. Initially, it was believed that retrofitting HW3 to HW4 was impractical due to differences in the system board size and connectors. However, visiting a Tesla service center will help navigate these constraints, as the company needs to collect miles driven on FSD to prove its safety to regulators overseeing the Robotaxi and Cybercab services.

    After introducing the FSD hardware version on the vehicle display, Tesla is also working on a feature to show the car’s license plate number. A hacker named Green has explored Tesla’s 2024.38 update code and discovered hints of a license plate number display on the central console screen. This feature appears to be rolling out first for Chinese models, as is common for the company, before becoming available worldwide.

    Personalization Options for Tesla Owners

    In addition to displaying the license plate number in the previously blank area, owners will have the ability to enter any text they wish. Parents whose kids enjoy customizing their virtual Teslas with unique colors will find this new feature to be another fun way to personalize their vehicle’s display, whether for a specific purpose or just for enjoyment.

    Green, NotATeslaApp

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  • Tesla Raises Model Y Range Estimate and Resumes AWD Deliveries

    Tesla Raises Model Y Range Estimate and Resumes AWD Deliveries

    Tesla has recently completed the updated EPA range tests and has provided a revised range estimate for the Model Y, enabling the company to resume deliveries of this popular vehicle to customers who have placed orders.

    Improved Range Ratings

    Similar to the entry-level Model Y RWD, the Model Y AWD now has an official range rating that is higher on a full charge according to the new EPA testing requirements, surpassing Tesla’s previous figures. Initially, Tesla’s internal tests for the Model Y AWD indicated a range of 308 miles per charge. However, the recent EPA evaluation has increased this estimate by one percentage point, bringing it to 311 miles.

    Temporary Delivery Halt

    Recently, Tesla paused the deliveries of the Model Y for a few days while it complied with the new government testing protocols, which are better aligned with how Americans typically drive on highways. Now, Tesla has official EPA range estimates for all three variants of the Model Y it offers in the US:

    It’s clear that the single-motor RWD Model Y version boasts the greatest range on a full charge. However, it’s worth noting that Americans do not receive the global Model Y that has the longest range rating.

    Global Range Comparisons

    This distinction belongs to regions like Europe, where a fourth variant, the Model Y RWD LR, has a range rated at 600 km, or 372 miles per charge. Tesla only unveiled this version this year, and its range estimate is based on the local WLTP testing cycle, which tends to be around 10% more generous than the newly implemented EPA EV range testing standards. Consequently, the second-cheapest Model Y in Europe effectively provides a similar real-world range as the most affordable Model Y in the United States.

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  • Uber Drivers Can Earn Free Model Y and Model 3 Credits with Tesla

    Uber Drivers Can Earn Free Model Y and Model 3 Credits with Tesla

    Tesla is teaming up with Uber to offer free credits to drivers who decide to switch to a Model Y or Model 3.

    Details of the Offer

    Uber drivers who qualify will receive $1,000 in Tesla Credits when they take delivery of a new Model 3 or Model Y. Once they complete 100 Uber trips using their new Tesla, they will earn an additional $1,000 in cash.

    These Uber drivers who choose the Model Y or Model 3 can use their Tesla Credits for charging costs, services at a Tesla center, buying a new Tesla, or various accessories. It’s important for them to maintain good standing with Uber. This initiative is also beneficial for Tesla, as many Uber drivers are increasingly utilizing Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (Supervised) feature, which allows them to work longer hours with less effort.

    Impact on Driving Data

    As more Uber drivers adopt the Model Y or Model 3, the number of miles logged with Full Self-Driving (FSD) will grow significantly. This data will be valuable for Tesla in its regulatory filings. The company is working hard to persuade state authorities that FSD is safer than human drivers, which is crucial for the approval of their upcoming Robotaxi service for use on city streets. Tesla aims to achieve this milestone in the upcoming quarters, allowing for the introduction of unsupervised FSD.

    By doing so, Tesla plans to enable Model Y and Model 3 owners to participate in its emerging Cybercab ride-share platform, providing demonstration rides to test the service while waiting for the Robotaxi launch.

    Challenges Ahead

    However, Tesla will need to accumulate a significant amount of distance covered using FSD and ensure a notable increase in safely driven miles before receiving approval for unsupervised FSD in urban areas. One effective way to reach these targets is to encourage Uber drivers to purchase Model Ys or Model 3s, knowing they will likely be motivated to use FSD.

    This strategy explains the newly created section for Uber drivers on Tesla’s website, where they can find an offer of up to $2,000 in free credits toward the purchase of a Model Y or Model 3.

    Despite Uber’s CEO expressing skepticism about the profitability of Tesla’s ride-share model, particularly concerning a driverless Robotaxi, Tesla is tackling the challenge another way—by incentivizing Uber drivers to select its vehicles and accumulate FSD miles.

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  • Tesla Model Y Deliveries Paused Amid 0% APR Financing Rush

    Tesla Model Y Deliveries Paused Amid 0% APR Financing Rush

    Tesla has been waiting for the EPA to evaluate the least expensive Model Y RWD Long Range version, and it has now received a certification for a 337-mile range, which is actually more than what Tesla had predicted.

    Delivery Delays for Model Y AWD

    While the company is still waiting on the EPA to assess the 2025 Model Y AWD, it has paused all deliveries for this popular version, likely until it secures the official range certification.

    As of now, Tesla’s own estimate for the Model Y AWD is 308 miles, but this figure comes from its internal testing, which is more demanding than the new EPA testing procedures.

    EPA Testing Changes

    The EPA has introduced a new testing method that includes a city/highway mileage mix, making it more representative of how Americans drive. Even with the added highway miles, Tesla is expected to receive a higher range certification for the Model Y AWD than its current estimate.

    In the meantime, customers who ordered the popular Model Y trim, eager to benefit from Tesla’s various offers and incentives in the last quarter, will find themselves facing delivery delays.

    Timing of Offers and Anticipation

    The wait for the EPA’s range estimate and the delay in Model Y deliveries come at a less-than-ideal moment. Tesla has introduced a record low 0% APR financing on the Model Y, alongside zero down payment options and complimentary FSD transfer deals, all of which can be combined with the generous federal tax credit at the point of sale.

    For those who decide to buy a Model Y before the refreshed Juniper facelift is revealed next quarter, they can expect monthly payments under $600 or no down payment, and they can transfer their existing FSD purchase to the new vehicle.

    "I feel like this is me right now," shared one Model Y buyer. "Ordered on 16OCT, got my VIN on 23OCT, and the delivery date has been pushed back one day for three days straight." "I’m certain the car is sitting on the lot right now," they added.

    A similar situation occurred with Tesla’s Model 3 Highland earlier this year, as well as with the robust Model Y Performance and Model S.

    Back then, Tesla also had to wait for the official EPA range rating, causing the Model 3 refresh orders to sit on delivery lots for a while until they received the estimate and were cleared to begin shipping.

    Reddit via DriveTeslaCanada

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  • Tesla Updates Adaptive Matrix Headlights with Selective High Beam

    Tesla Updates Adaptive Matrix Headlights with Selective High Beam

    Tesla is on the verge of introducing its adaptive high beam headlights to US drivers, a feature that European owners have been enjoying.

    Confirmation from Tesla’s Chief Engineer

    Lars Moravy, Tesla’s chief engineer, has announced that the company is "almost there" in terms of obtaining the necessary regulatory approvals for launching these adaptive headlights in the US. This statement was made in response to a question about the benefits of these headlights, particularly after experiencing them in a rental Model Y. A recent drive in a Model Y from Giga Shanghai in Iceland has heightened my anticipation for the adaptive headlight feature in the US. On rough roads, I was able to stay close to my friends without ever blinding them with the high beams!

    Features Available in Europe

    Earlier this year, Tesla introduced the adaptive high beams with glare control across its vehicle lineup in Europe, including the Model Y and certain Model 3 units from 2021 to 2023 that are equipped with selective pixel dimming headlights. In addition, any new Tesla produced since January 2023 is expected to feature these matrix headlights as well. When Tesla rolled out the adaptive headlights in Europe, Moravy indicated that "more regions and features would follow as we secure necessary certifications." Now, it appears that the US market is finally being considered for this upgrade.

    Stricter US Regulations

    The regulations set by the US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 108 are significantly more stringent than those in Europe, which explains the delay in American Teslas with matrix headlights receiving the adaptive high beams functionality. Once the necessary approvals are granted, Tesla typically takes just a few weeks to issue the software updates, meaning US vehicles could have adaptive headlights by the end of this year. At present, US models include a setting for automatic high beams, which adjusts the headlights for turns but lacks the full adaptive capability.

    When the genuine Adaptive Headlights feature becomes available for US owners, Tesla vehicles equipped with matrix headlights will have the ability to dim individual pixels when high beams illuminate other road users, preventing glare and enhancing safety.

    Lars Moravy (X)

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  • Tesla Unveils New Robotaxi Design in Daylight for First Time

    Tesla Unveils New Robotaxi Design in Daylight for First Time

    Tesla is hosting a Frunk or Treat event for Halloween weekend at its Gigafactory in Texas, and there are some exciting exclusives to check out, including one of the first crash-tested Cybertrucks.

    Driverless Innovation

    Another notable feature is the driverless Robotaxi, which Tesla demonstrated as it navigated without a steering wheel or pedals around the Warner Bros. studio during a special event.

    The event kicked off in the evening, and by the time the keynote presentation wrapped up, the sun had already set, meaning all the demonstrations with the approximately 20 Robotaxi units took place in the dark.

    Futuristic Appearance

    This nighttime setting gave the Robotaxi a silvery, futuristic look similar to the Cybertruck, even though it’s not crafted from stainless steel for budget and weight considerations, but instead is made of aluminum alloy panels that are painted to achieve that appearance.

    Interestingly, when the Robotaxi was displayed in bright daylight during the lovely sunny weather at Giga Texas, its shimmering finish appeared more golden than the silver-like look associated with the Cybertruck’s stainless steel.

    Typically, daylight can make things appear less appealing than under the stars, yet the Robotaxi maintained its futuristic vibe just as it did during the launch event.

    Design Features

    While its lines might not appear as sharp, they are instead more sculpted, and the rear light bar, which the refreshed Model Y Juniper is also expected to feature, glows brightly even when the sun is shining.

    The Robotaxi showcases a design that feels quintessentially Tesla, crafted by Franz von Holzhausen, particularly at the front, with Cybertruck-style light bars added for an extra touch.

    The 21-inch wheels are fitted with Continental tires that are partially painted in the cap’s color, creating an illusion of larger size and effectively emphasizing the futuristic aesthetic while keeping production costs in check.

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  • Robotaxi Remains Tesla’s Cheapest Car Amid Model 3, Y Price Cuts

    Robotaxi Remains Tesla’s Cheapest Car Amid Model 3, Y Price Cuts

    Tesla has decided to abandon the idea of the Model 2, which was intended to be its most budget-friendly vehicle, with a starting price of around $25,000 after incentives.

    Instead of launching this vehicle in 2026 as earlier speculated, Tesla will now focus on introducing the fully autonomous Robotaxi, which will fall within that same price bracket.

    Elon Musk’s Insights

    During the Q3 earnings call, Elon Musk stated that offering a Model 2 would be “pointless” since the company is moving forward with the autonomous Robotaxi, which he mentioned would be priced below $30,000. However, it isn’t clear if this figure refers to the price before or after incentives. Musk mentioned, “it’ll cost on the order of roughly $25,000, so it is a $25,000 car,” implying it might be after federal tax credits and other incentives.

    Earlier in the call, he indicated that the Robotaxi’s price would be “with incentive sub-30k, which is kind of a key threshold.” This means that a $25,000 price point fits well within that range, making both statements appear to align with each other.

    Comparison to Current Models

    Moreover, Tesla currently has a vehicle that is somewhat under $30,000; the base Model 3 RWD is priced at $29,990 after “estimated incentives of $7,500 and 5-year gas savings of $5,000.” Since similar incentives will apply to the Robotaxi, Tesla would need to price it significantly lower than the Model 3, making the $25,000 price tag more reasonable. Given that the Robotaxi will feature only two seats and a compact 40 kWh battery offering a 200-mile range, its production costs are expected to be less than those of a Model 3, making a post-incentive price of $25,000 quite feasible.

    Elon also mentioned that the manufacturing speed of the Robotaxi/Cybercab will surpass anything currently available, which will further help to cut down its per-unit costs:

    “It’s especially not just a revolutionary vehicle design, but a revolution in vehicle manufacturing that is also coming with the Cybercab. The cycle time, like, the, the units per hour of the Cybercab line is – like, this is just really something special. I mean, this is probably a half order of magnitude better than other car manufacturing lines. Like not in the same league is what I’m saying.”

    Future Strategies

    This is why, rather than introducing an inexpensive Model 2, Tesla will aim to reduce the prices of its popular vehicles such as the Model Y and Model 3. The anticipated $25,000-$30,000 price range will be filled by the Robotaxi.

    Lars Moravy, Tesla’s engineering head, also expressed that the company’s “mission has always been to lower the cost of our vehicles to increase the adoption of sustainable energy and transport,” emphasizing that “part of that is lowering the cost for current vehicles.”

    To achieve this, Tesla aims to produce the most affordable EV batteries in the US next year, which could lead to lower prices for the Model 3 and Model Y. Reports indicate that Tesla is working on four different 4680 battery designs using a cost-saving dry cathode method for the Cybertruck, Model Y, Model 3, and ultimately, the Robotaxi, ensuring they remain competitive in pricing.

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  • Elon Musk’s Government Role Could Speed Up Unsupervised FSD Rollout

    Elon Musk’s Government Role Could Speed Up Unsupervised FSD Rollout

    Elon Musk is gearing up to advocate for national regulations on autonomous vehicles if he secures the position he has been promised within a newly established government efficiency commission.

    During a recent earnings call, the Tesla CEO addressed inquiries regarding his assertion that the company plans to launch unsupervised Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology next year, although only in two states. Elon hinted at this upcoming FSD rollout when he introduced the driverless Robotaxi, which he stated would be priced below $30,000 by 2026.

    Upcoming FSD Developments

    Before that rollout, however, owners of the Model 3 and Model Y—especially those with HW4—might have the chance to experience real unsupervised self-driving in Texas and California. Tesla’s reasoning for targeting these two states for an unsupervised FSD launch in 2025 is quite distinct.

    Texas was chosen by Tesla due to its more flexible regulatory stance, while California, despite its complex regulations, already has a framework for autonomous vehicle permits through companies like Waymo. As Tesla’s Lars Moravy points out:

    "All of our vehicles currently produced and capable of autonomy comply with all regulations; even the Cybertruck conforms to these rules. Our challenge is not the vehicle itself but the state-level regulations controlling autonomous vehicle deployment. Some states, like Texas, are relatively straightforward. Others, such as California, might require more time. Some haven’t established any regulations yet, so we will navigate this on a state-by-state basis."

    Plans for Expansion

    After launching unsupervised FSD in these initial states, Tesla intends to seek approval in additional states by the close of 2025. According to Tesla, states began exploring these regulations back in 2017, but progress has since "stalled." This means Tesla will have to engage with each individual state to promote the adoption of autonomous vehicles.

    Musk believes that the introduction of unsupervised FSD could happen much quicker if regulations are enacted at the federal level. This is what he plans to focus on if he is appointed to lead the government efficiency role after the elections.

    "There ought to be a national approval system for autonomous vehicles. That’s how the FMVSS operates. The Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) is federal. It’s crucial to have a national approval. The government efficiency department should help facilitate this. And this is for everyone, not just Tesla. In the U.S., some matters, like insurance, are regulated state by state, which is incredibly cumbersome across 50 states. I believe we need a natural approval process for autonomous technologies."

    What Musk means by the department of government efficiency is the federal commission that a new presidential administration might establish.

    Elon has already shown interest in advising this efficiency commission, even if in an unofficial capacity. Transitioning regulations for autonomous vehicles to the federal level could be a key initiative he aims to promote there.

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  • Tesla Pursues Robotaxi Launch with FSD Regulatory Approval

    Tesla Pursues Robotaxi Launch with FSD Regulatory Approval

    After receiving certification from Chinese officials as a safe handler of personal data, Tesla has been given the green light to set up data centers and offer online processing along with content distribution networks. This is crucial to meet the Chinese government’s demand that all data collected from citizens, including information from the future Full Self-Driving service analytics, remains within the country and is kept secure.

    Pilot Testing in China

    Currently, Tesla is conducting pilot Full Self-Driving (FSD) tests with Model Y cars in China. They must submit their findings to regulators in order to persuade them to approve FSD for use in the largest car market in the world. The Chinese government aims to demonstrate that it welcomes such services from foreign firms, and local officials have stated that Tesla’s driver-assistance features will enhance the autonomous driving landscape in the country, encouraging collaboration among companies and increasing public acceptance.

    Competition and Local Developments

    Local competitors like Xpeng have also expressed that the introduction of Tesla’s FSD in China would be beneficial for everyone involved. However, Xpeng has a significant advantage, as it will be the first domestic company to receive approval for a self-driving feature in major cities this quarter, due to its new P7+ sedan. In contrast, Tesla’s FSD approval in China is expected to occur no sooner than next year.

    Despite the challenges, Tesla is making efforts to meet all regulatory demands in China and in the United States, where they are eager to roll out unsupervised FSD next year in both Texas and California, and aim to obtain a Robotaxi permit by 2026.

    Testing Partnership with Palo Alto

    Tesla is now seeking permission from the Palo Alto local government to use its streets as a test area for the Robotaxi launch. Meghan Horrigan-Taylor, a spokesperson for the city, reported that discussions are underway regarding a partnership for testing Robotaxi services with Tesla.

    Tesla’s decision to approach regulators makes sense, especially since it opened its new global engineering and AI headquarters in Palo Alto last year. A permit to test driverless Robotaxis on city streets would be quite convenient for them.

    Moreover, the city stands to gain, as its Palo Alto Link service, which offers low-cost or free rides to residents, is currently facing financial difficulties. During the Robotaxi reveal, Elon Musk mentioned that rides could cost as little as $0.30 per mile, factoring in all expenses, making a test fleet of Robotaxis appealing for the Palo Alto city council.

    Regulatory Hurdles Ahead

    However, the city’s spokesperson reminded that the ultimate decision rests with the California Public Utilities Commission and the California Department of Motor Vehicles, which will evaluate the safety and readiness of autonomous vehicles for public roads. Therefore, Tesla will still need to convince regulators to make its Robotaxi operation legal on the streets of Palo Alto.

    China Daily, Palo Alto.

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  • Tesla Model Y Juniper Trial Production Begins, Early Release Possible

    Tesla Model Y Juniper Trial Production Begins, Early Release Possible

    Tesla has rolled out various deals for the Model Y, such as 0% APR financing and no down payment. This move seems aimed not just at boosting Q4 sales figures, but also at encouraging potential buyers who are hesitating, especially with the upcoming Juniper refresh that could be launching soon.

    Early Pilot Production

    A well-known Chinese auto blogger has suggested that the Model Y Juniper might debut sooner than expected. Reports indicate that Tesla plans to kick off pilot production of a limited batch of Model Y Juniper vehicles at its Gigafactory located in Shanghai as early as this week.

    Interestingly, the team at Giga Shanghai recently achieved a production milestone of 3 million vehicles, producing one Tesla every 30 seconds. However, they are said to be making only around 12 Model Y Juniper units daily. This limited output suggests that it is indeed a trial production phase, similar to what Tesla did with the Model 3 Highland refresh, which began its pilot production in small quantities a few months prior to its official launch to refine the mass manufacturing process.

    Comparison to Model 3 Highland

    The Model 3 Highland, which is reported to influence the front design of the Model Y Juniper, started its pilot manufacturing last August at Giga Shanghai. Tesla officially launched it in China by the end of October, and it was announced for the US in January. Therefore, even if these rumors are true, we are likely several months away from the actual Juniper launch.

    To keep the design specifics under wraps until the official reveal, workers at the Gigafactory who are assembling the test batches of Model Y Juniper have reportedly been prohibited from bringing phones onto the site. We’ve caught glimpses of what appears to be a new rear light bar, but the rest of the vehicle has been camouflaged, possibly spotted during testing in the US and Europe. This follows the same strategy Tesla employed while preparing for the Highland release.

    Speculations on Features

    As for the precise specifications of the Model Y Juniper, they remain uncertain. However, it is rumored to include a robust 95 kWh battery and an 800V powertrain architecture for quicker charging capabilities. There may also be a 48V low-voltage system similar to that of the Cybertruck, as Tesla has open-sourced its efforts in this area and mentioned it will be used even in its more affordable models like the Robotaxi or the future Model 2. Additionally, the Model Y Juniper is expected to feature a touchless frunk opening and a 6-seater variant for the Chinese market, which is presumably what Tesla is currently testing in their pilot production.

    FatTigerShawn (Weibo) via CarNewsChina

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