Tag: Tesla

  • 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.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • 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.

    Source:
    Link


  • 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.”

    Source:
    Link


  • 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.

    Source:
    Link

  • 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.

    Source:
    Link

  • Elon Musk Aims to Double US Production with Affordable Tesla Launch

    Elon Musk Aims to Double US Production with Affordable Tesla Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla plans to double US production from about 665,000 vehicles last year to over 1.3 million by 2027.
    2. The company currently has the capacity to produce around 1.1 million vehicles annually in the US, needing slight expansion for its new goals.
    3. A more affordable vehicle, tentatively called Model 2, is set to be revealed soon, potentially boosting demand.
    4. Tesla is enhancing production of the Model Y Juniper refresh and plans facelifts for the Model S and Model X by late 2025.
    5. Despite challenges like declining global sales and vandalism, Musk is committed to fulfilling his production goals with upcoming models like the Cybercab.


    Tesla is set to increase its production at its US factories by two times over the next two years, according to Elon Musk. This move aligns with the current administration’s push for more goods to be made in America.

    Production Goals

    This shift means Tesla aims to ramp up its output from around 665,000 vehicles produced in the US last year to over 1.3 million by 2027. Considering Tesla manufactured approximately 1.8 million cars worldwide in 2024, this target for US production alone appears quite ambitious.

    Capacity and Demand

    At present, Tesla has the capability to produce about 1.1 million vehicles annually in the US, meaning it just needs to slightly expand that capacity. The more challenging aspect will be securing enough American customers for the increased output, a strategy Musk appears to have carefully considered.

    New Models on the Horizon

    Later this year, Tesla is expected to reveal its most affordable vehicle, tentatively referred to as the Model 2. Elon believes that its lower price could quickly make it a popular choice among buyers. Additionally, the company is gearing up to enhance production of the new Model Y Juniper refresh, which many enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting before making their Tesla purchases.

    The Model S and Model X are also set to receive facelifts by late 2025, and Tesla plans to launch a more affordable rear-wheel drive version of the Cybertruck this year, with this model already listed in the IRS tax credit database.

    Future Production Plans

    The Cybercab, which will use the same production platform as the Model 2, is also scheduled for mass production in 2026. Thus, fulfilling Musk’s commitment to double US production seems achievable, a promise made during an event at the White House.

    Despite facing difficulties like a dip in global sales and vandalism issues domestically, Elon Musk organized a promotional event at the White House, where he showcased a price list to President Trump and suggested he buy a red Model S Plaid.

    Trump expressed his support for Tesla amid the backlash related to Musk’s political activities, which have impacted sales and led to vandalism against Tesla’s Supercharger stations and showrooms. As a gesture of this support, he allowed Musk to bring all Tesla models to the White House and confirmed he would buy a Model S Plaid, which Musk mentioned is his daily driver.

    Elon committed to doubling the production of American-made vehicles to around 1.3 million within the next two years, a plan that shouldn’t significantly strain Tesla’s existing budget, as it aligns with prior goals set before the White House endorsement event.

    Source:
    Link


  • Tesla Launches Improved Model Y Deliveries in the US

    Tesla Launches Improved Model Y Deliveries in the US

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla has begun delivering the new Model Y in the United States, celebrating the event at its Texas and Fremont factories.
    2. Key company representatives, including design head Franz von Holzhausen, were present for the first vehicle handovers.
    3. The updated Model Y is also being rolled out in Germany, with initial units likely delivered to workers at Giga Berlin.
    4. The refreshed Model Y was first introduced in China, with Launch Edition deliveries starting ahead of schedule in late February.
    5. The new Model Y signifies a significant step in Tesla’s growth and innovation across various markets.


    Tesla has begun the delivery of the new Model Y in the United States. The automaker celebrated the occasion by handing over the first vehicles to delighted owners at its production facilities in Texas and Fremont.

    Celebration at the Factories

    Company representatives were present to mark the event, taking photos in front of the new cars, including Franz von Holzhausen, the head of design. Tesla shared the moment on its official X account, congratulating everyone with a post that stated, “Celebrating first deliveries of the new Model Y at Giga Texas and Fremont Factory.”

    Global Rollout

    Earlier in the week, Tesla also started processing orders for the updated Model Y in Germany. However, as mentioned in their post on X, it seems that workers at Giga Berlin may have received the first units.

    The refreshed Model Y was initially introduced in China back in January, with the Launch Edition deliveries commencing ahead of schedule in late February. Tesla is now offering the standard version in the largest auto market globally at the same price but without perks such as an additional two-year or 40,000 km extended warranty.

    Exciting Times Ahead

    Tesla also took to X to share these updates, revealing that the Model Y is gaining traction across various markets. This new model represents an important step in the company’s ongoing growth and innovation.

    Source:
    Link

  • Tesla to Replace Superchargers Damaged by Protesters in 2 Days

    Tesla to Replace Superchargers Damaged by Protesters in 2 Days

    Key Takeaways

    1. Elon Musk reduced Tesla’s workforce by over 10% to manage costs, impacting the Supercharger network division significantly.
    2. After initially laying off the entire Supercharger team, Musk later decided to rehire many of its members.
    3. Tesla aims to expand the Supercharger network at a slower rate while focusing on ensuring 100% uptime and improving existing stations.
    4. The company introduced Prefabricated Supercharger Units (PSUs) to speed up installation and repair processes, allowing for quicker setup of new locations.
    5. Tesla faces increasing vandalism threats, prompting the need for rapid repairs and enhanced maintenance solutions for Supercharger stations.


    When Elon Musk encountered a drop in demand and increasing expenses at Tesla last spring, he reduced the workforce by over 10% to manage costs effectively.

    This move affected individuals in the Supercharger network division, which is tasked with both the installation of new stations and the maintenance of existing ones. However, Musk felt dissatisfied with the extent of the layoffs in that area, and after receiving resistance from department head Rebecca Tinucci, he dismissed the entire Supercharger team of 500 employees.

    “Tesla still aims to expand the Supercharger network, albeit at a slower rate for new sites, focusing more on ensuring 100% uptime and enhancing current locations,” Musk remarked at that moment.

    Rehiring and Changes

    As is often the case, Musk later decided to rehire many members of the Supercharger team, although Rebecca eventually took a position at Uber.

    It appears that Tesla may require all the maintenance personnel for the Supercharger network, especially since Elon Musk’s political actions have led to numerous vandalism incidents at Tesla charging stations and showrooms.

    Tesla has now committed to replacing any damaged Superchargers within 48 hours, and for more extensive damages, the prefabricated design developed by the Tesla Giga New York team in Buffalo will be useful. Known as Prefabricated Supercharger Units (PSUs), these include multiple piles already mounted on a shared concrete foundation, with all necessary electrical wiring completed and ready to connect to the power grid.

    Faster Repair Solutions

    “This enables us to set up new locations significantly quicker – allowing construction to wrap up in days instead of weeks,” stated Tesla at the time. The PSU method is particularly beneficial now, as Tesla faces an uptick in vandalism threats.

    Previously, Tesla dealt with issues of Supercharger cables being frequently cut, either as a form of protest against electric vehicles or simply to harvest the copper for sale. To combat the cable-cutting problem, Tesla branded its cables with a logo to prevent resale, but with activists now directly vandalizing Supercharger stations, they need to replace more than just the cables.

    For example, when the first Tesla Supercharger station caught fire in Littleton, Massachusetts, on the night of March 3, Tesla had the damaged piles replaced by March 5, allowing owners to charge their vehicles as usual.

    Thus, the same PSU production strategy that enables Tesla to expand its Supercharger network much more rapidly and at up to 70% lower costs than competitors might now prove advantageous in maintaining operational Supercharger stations amid current vandalism issues.

    Source:
    Link

  • Suspect Arrested for Molotov Cocktail Attack on Salem Tesla Dealership

    Suspect Arrested for Molotov Cocktail Attack on Salem Tesla Dealership

    Key Takeaways

    1. Adam Lansky was arrested as a suspect in a January attack at a Tesla store in Salem, Oregon, involving Molotov cocktails.
    2. The attack caused damage to seven vehicles, with total damages estimated at $500,000.
    3. Evidence against Lansky includes video footage, eyewitness accounts, and fingerprints found at the crime scene.
    4. He is also linked to a separate incident at the same store in February, where he allegedly fired bullets into the building and a parked vehicle.
    5. Lansky is facing federal charges for possessing an unregistered destructive device and will remain in custody during ongoing investigations by the FBI and other agencies.


    Law enforcement has taken Adam Lansky into custody, being a suspect in an attack that occurred in January at a Tesla store located in Salem, Oregon. The 41-year-old man was arrested for hurling Molotov cocktails, also known as petrol bombs, at the dealership. This act resulted in damage to seven vehicles and the complete destruction of one. The total damages are estimated to be around $500,000.

    Evidence Points to Lansky

    The arson incident was recorded on video, showing the suspect throwing a rock at the dealership’s window. An eyewitness also claimed that Lansky pointed a rifle in their direction. A vehicle seen in footage from a police patrol camera led authorities to Lansky’s home. Additional evidence tying him to the crime includes fingerprints found at the scene.

    Previous Incidents

    Lansky is also connected to another event at the same store in February, where it seems he fired bullets into both the building and a vehicle parked outside.

    Court Proceedings

    He has made an appearance in federal court facing charges for possessing an unregistered destructive device illegally. Lansky will remain in custody while he waits for upcoming court dates. The ongoing case is being actively investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, along with the Salem Police Department.

    Source:
    Link

  • New Model Y Features FSD AI-Controlled Brake Cylinder and Regen Braking

    New Model Y Features FSD AI-Controlled Brake Cylinder and Regen Braking

    Key Takeaways

    1. The 2026 Model Y Juniper features improved range due to enhanced efficiency in power usage, with a 5% increase while using the same battery pack.
    2. The new brake system includes lighter calipers and two independent hydraulic cylinders, improving braking performance and functionality.
    3. The brake system operates automatically in Autopilot or Full Self-Driving mode, allowing the brake pedal to remain stationary during these sessions.
    4. Enhanced regenerative braking relies more on the electric motor, optimizing energy recovery while maintaining smooth pedal response.
    5. A new regenerative braking mode allows drivers to modify the vehicle’s slowing behavior when releasing the accelerator, improving energy recuperation.


    When Tesla revealed the refreshed 2026 Model Y Juniper, they highlighted a significant improvement in the range achieved per charge, which comes from enhancing the electric SUV’s efficiency in power usage.

    Efficiency Improvements

    In addition to saving on power consumption, Tesla pointed to a reduced drag coefficient and enhanced aerodynamics of both the body and brakes as key factors that contributed to a 5% increase in range using the same battery pack.

    New Brake System Design

    The Model Y facelift features a cutting-edge brake system that includes lighter calipers. This new system is compact and introduces two independent hydraulic cylinders for the first time.

    Lars Moravy, Tesla’s lead engineer, explained that the brake system in the Model Y Juniper is now equipped with two master cylinders. The driver only operates one of these, while the other cylinder engages the brakes automatically when the vehicle is in Autopilot or Full Self-Driving mode. This means the brake pedal remains stationary during self-driving sessions. The Model Y’s braking is fully managed by its HW4 computer, utilizing AI algorithms to determine when to slow down and how much energy to recover through regenerative braking, all while keeping the pedal still.

    Enhanced Regenerative Braking

    This Model Y Juniper refresh relies more on regenerative braking via the electric motor instead of traditional friction braking with the cylinders and pads, setting it apart from other Tesla models. The regenerative braking starts based on how hard the driver presses the brake pedal, increasing friction braking only when necessary, which helps to optimize energy recovery and overall efficiency.

    Additionally, a new regenerative braking mode is available within the settings of the Model Y facelift under the Reduced Deceleration option. Tesla states that this feature “modifies how quickly the vehicle slows when the accelerator pedal is let go,” enhancing energy recuperation.

    This improvement doesn’t compromise the feel of the brake pedal; the transition between increased regenerative braking and decreased friction braking is now smooth, ensuring that the pedal response remains consistent, as Tesla proudly claims.

    Source:
    Link