Tag: Tesla

  • Tesla Model Y Frunk LED Light Strip and Pricey Supercharged Gummies

    Tesla Model Y Frunk LED Light Strip and Pricey Supercharged Gummies

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla has launched its long-awaited Supercharged Gummies, featuring flavors like Cyberberry, Mango Bolt, and Dog Mode Chill.
    2. The gummies are packaged in a box shaped like a lightning bolt and are priced at $35, also included in goodie bags at the grand opening of a new Tesla diner.
    3. The new Supercharger station on Santa Monica Boulevard is inspired by 1950s drive-in theaters and offers organic food items along with the gummies.
    4. Tesla is also introducing an LED lighting strip for the frunk of Model Y and Model 3, with easy installation and a $100 price tag.
    5. There are concerns about the pricing of the frunk LED strip, as it is considered high for a feature that many believe should come standard.

    After the release of Tesla’s tequila and beer set, the car manufacturer has introduced its long-anticipated gummy candies, which have been talked about since they were trademarked last year.

    Supercharged Gummies Launch

    Named Supercharged Gummies, this clever name plays on words perfectly. The Tesla candy options feature a strawberry-flavored Cyberberry, a Mango Bolt, and a raspberry Dog Mode Chill.

    The Supercharged Gummies are packaged in a box shaped like a Tesla lightning bolt, which appears to be influenced by its Diner Supercharger, similar to the themed salt and pepper shakers. They are now available at the diner for $35, and were also included in the goodie bags for guests who attended its grand opening on Monday.

    Diner Inspiration

    The newly opened Supercharger station on Santa Monica Boulevard draws inspiration from 1950s drive-in movie theaters and diners. It offers organic burgers, milkshakes, and other exclusive items beyond the Supercharged Gummies, including a new black Optimus action figure where the robot is dressed as a fast-food server.

    To keep up with the festive product launches, Tesla is also introducing an LED lighting strip designed for the frunk of the Model Y and Model 3. The installation is said to be simple, as the Model Y frunk lighting strip connects directly to the SUV’s power supply. The ambient lighting for the front box in both the Model 3 and Model Y comes with a constant current control module and boasts an IP67 water-resistance rating, perfect for those occasions when the frunk is used as a cooler for parties.

    Pricing Concerns

    However, similar to the Supercharged Gummies, the $100 price tag for the Model Y frunk LED strip feels steep for an ambient lighting feature that arguably should have been included as standard.

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  • Tesla Model 3 Hits 3 Million Sales, World’s Top Electric Sedan

    Tesla Model 3 Hits 3 Million Sales, World’s Top Electric Sedan

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla Model 3 was launched in 2016 to provide budget-friendly electric vehicles, with over three million units sold since 2017.
    2. The Model 3 has been the world’s leading battery-electric sedan for seven years, with a new unit delivered every 90 seconds.
    3. Attractive financing options include zero-interest loans in China and 0% APR offers in the US with Full Self-Driving purchase.
    4. Recent updates to the Model 3 include the “Highland” version with improved design and increased driving range.
    5. A new Model 3 Plus in China features a higher-capacity battery for enhanced range, alongside a new Model Y L with three rows of seating.

    Tesla introduced the Model 3 back in 2016, aiming to create more budget-friendly electric vehicles (EVs). Since then, the company has made great strides, with over three million units of this electric sedan sold since production kicked off in 2017.

    A Record-Breaking Sedan

    Per a Weibo post from Tesla China (translated via Google Translate), the Model 3 continues to be the world’s leading battery-electric sedan, holding this position for an impressive seven years. It has become the epitome of mass-market EVs, with a new Model 3 being delivered every 90 seconds.

    Attractive Financing Options

    The post also highlights financing opportunities for the Model 3 in China, offering zero-interest loans for a period of five years, starting at just RMB 2,460 monthly. In the US, Tesla is running a similar deal, providing 0% APR for up to 60 months, although this is only available with the purchase of Full Self-Driving (FSD).

    Recent Updates and Variants

    Tesla has rolled out several updates for the Model 3, the most recent being the “Highland” version, which features a more stylish font and sleeker headlights. These aerodynamic changes have also led to a slight increase in the driving range.

    In addition, Tesla has introduced a Model 3 Plus in China, which comes equipped with a higher-capacity NMC battery from LG, potentially enhancing the EV’s driving range considerably. This was revealed alongside a new Model Y L that offers three rows of seating.

    In conclusion, Tesla continues to innovate and dominate the EV market with its Model 3 and related offerings.

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  • Tesla Vehicles Get Robotaxi FSD Upgrade for Major Autonomy Boost

    Tesla Vehicles Get Robotaxi FSD Upgrade for Major Autonomy Boost

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla’s Robotaxi platform expansion will be closely evaluated ahead of the earnings announcement on July 23, with a focus on the upcoming significant Full Self-Driving (FSD) release.

    2. The Model Y robotaxis in Austin use unique FSD software that differs from the version available to regular Tesla owners, with plans for careful integration in the future.

    3. The “unsupervised” FSD used by the robotaxis operates without driver input and is classified as Level 4 autonomous vehicle software by the Austin transportation department.

    4. Tesla employs geofencing for its Robotaxi operations to ensure regulatory compliance and safe navigation, while conducting extensive testing before merging the robotaxi software with the public FSD version.

    5. Tesla emphasizes the advantages of its camera-only FSD system over competitors and plans to enhance the robotaxi software with a fourfold increase in parameters, focusing on efficient memory use for improved algorithm processing.

    Ahead of Tesla’s earnings announcement on July 23, the expansion of its Robotaxi platform is set to be closely examined. Elon Musk has promised a “step change improvement” for the next significant Full Self-Driving (FSD) release, drawing from experiences gained through operating the driverless ride-sharing service.

    Unique Software for Robotaxis

    Tesla has modified a small fleet of Model Y vehicles to operate as robotaxis in Austin. While these units are equipped with factory hardware, their FSD software differs from what is available to regular Tesla owners. Musk stated that Tesla plans to integrate the separate FSD software used by the robotaxis with the commercial version currently employed in its other vehicles, but this will be done cautiously.

    Unsupervised FSD Explained

    Tesla has labeled the FSD branch utilized by its robotaxi fleet during the pilot phase in Austin as “unsupervised” FSD. This is distinct from the Full Self-Driving (Supervised) designation given to the paid driver assistance feature. The term “unsupervised” indicates that it does not require any driver input or attention. The transportation department in Austin has classified this system as Level 4 autonomous vehicle software, meaning it can operate without human intervention.

    Regulatory Challenges and Testing

    To achieve the necessary regulatory approvals, Tesla operates its Model Y robotaxi quite differently from the FSD versions accessible to the general public. For instance, Tesla has geofenced the operational area for its Robotaxi platform, similar to Waymo, to verify that the “unsupervised” vehicles navigate routes in the same manner as its other cars. This explains the variety of Tesla validation vehicles equipped with additional camera setups seen driving around Austin before the launch of the Robotaxi service.

    Before merging the robotaxi FSD with the version available to the public, Tesla aims to conduct more tests to ensure a seamless transition. Musk emphasized, “We need to validate that improvements for Austin don’t cause regressions elsewhere.”

    Safety Measures and Future Plans

    Tesla takes pride in the advantages of its camera-only FSD system compared to the geofenced methods and extra sensors, like LiDAR, used by competitors such as Waymo. However, in Austin, Tesla continues to employ geofencing for enhanced safety and regulatory compliance. The company wants to ensure that the performance of its robotaxis within this controlled environment aligns with the behavior of Tesla vehicles outside of mapped areas.

    The merging of the robotaxi software with the general FSD version is set to take place later this year. Musk hinted at a fourfold increase in parameters and emphasized a “super frugal use of memory bandwidth, caching exactly what is needed” to facilitate the processing of additional algorithms.

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  • Tesla Model Y Redesign: Folding Seats, Bigger Battery, 3-Row SUV

    Tesla Model Y Redesign: Folding Seats, Bigger Battery, 3-Row SUV

    Key Takeaways

    1. Spacious Design Enhancements: The six-seat Model Y L features a longer wheelbase and taller frame, improving legroom and headspace with captain chairs in the first two rows and standard seats in the third row.

    2. Unique Seating Configuration: The Model Y L will have individual, separated seats in the third row, allowing for more comfort and legroom compared to the six-seat Model X.

    3. Improved Headroom and Specs: The vehicle’s increased height provides better headroom for back passengers, and it’s expected to include a larger battery with up to 90 kWh capacity and dynamic electromagnetic suspension for enhanced ride comfort.

    4. Cargo Space Concerns: Previous Tesla three-row SUVs struggled with cargo space; the Model Y L may need flexible seating options, like folding down second-row captain chairs, to improve storage capacity.

    5. Promising Future Developments: Tesla China hints that the Model Y L will be a versatile “full-scene” SUV, potentially allowing all rear seats to fold flat automatically, enhancing its functionality for transporting passengers and cargo.

    Tesla enthusiasts have been eagerly waiting for a proper three-row SUV, but the electric vehicle manufacturer now claims that the closest option will be the Model Y L.

    Spacious Design Enhancements

    The new six-seat Model Y, which expands on the original five-seat version, boasts a wheelbase that is seven inches longer and a taller frame. Tesla has made significant improvements instead of simply adding extra child seats in the trunk and labeling it a family SUV.

    Passengers can expect enhanced legroom and headspace, with four captain chairs in the first two rows and two standard-sized seats in the third row, which differ from those found in the six-seat Model X.

    Unique Seating Configuration

    A source from Tesla China, known for accurate information about vehicles from Giga Shanghai, has revealed that the seating layout of the Model Y L will be unprecedented for Tesla.

    The second row will still feature two captain chairs with armrests, but the third row will now include individual separated seats. Unlike the six-seat Model X, where the third row has two seats connected, the new design allows a taller passenger to comfortably sit in the middle with more legroom.

    In the Model Y L, the second-row seats will be motorized, allowing for adjustments to the spacing between the rows. The seats are said to have a completely new design and ventilation, though it remains unclear if the third row also has this feature.

    Improved Headroom and Specs

    The third row, however, is reportedly positioned lower than the other two rows. With the increased height of the vehicle and the redesigned C-pillar, passengers in the back may enjoy similar headroom as those in the front.

    The specifications of the Model Y L are expected to include a larger battery, offering up to 90 kWh of nominal capacity, which is a 20% boost over the current Model Y battery. Additionally, Tesla has fitted the Model Y L with dynamic electromagnetic suspension to enhance ride comfort for passengers.

    Cargo Space Concerns

    But what about cargo space? The issue with Tesla’s previous attempts at three-row SUVs is that they fall short in size for that category. They struggle to fit more than five adult passengers and enough cargo in the trunk, leaving limited storage space.

    Certainly, a compromise might work if all the rear seats could be folded flat, allowing for either passengers or cargo. Fans are open to this idea, yet Tesla only allows the third bench in the Model X to fold down, which doesn’t create sufficient cargo space.

    If the captain chairs in the second row of either the six-seat Model X or Model Y L could fold down, it would transform Tesla’s so-called “3-row SUV” lineup into something genuinely functional.

    Promising Future Developments

    This is exactly what Tesla China seems to be suggesting. Grace Tao Lin, a senior executive managing government affairs and marketing in Greater China, mentioned on social media that the six-seat Model Y L will be a “full-scene 6-seat luxury SUV.”

    Insiders familiar with the local automotive terminology now interpret “full scene” as an all-purpose vehicle in China, or as a “vehicle for all scenarios,” hinting at versatile capabilities.

    In essence, the Model Y L is shaping up to be a three-row SUV designed to transport both passengers and cargo, likely by allowing all four rear seats to fold flat. The rumored capability of adjusting the second row also adds to this confirmation.

    The 2026 Model Y has the feature to fold its back seats at the push of a button, which also moves the front seats forward to create a completely flat surface, perfect for accommodating a Model Y air mattress.

    Tesla may be gearing up for something similar with the Model Y L, potentially enabling all four rear seats to fold flat automatically, which would be a welcome enhancement.

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  • Tesla Model Y Financing Deals and Free Upgrades Available Now

    Tesla Model Y Financing Deals and Free Upgrades Available Now

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla has launched a new financing deal for the Model Y at a rate of 3.49%, down from 4.99%.
    2. The minimum down payment for the Model Y has been reduced to 5%, from the previous 15%.
    3. Customers can use the federal tax credit as part of their down payment for the Model Y.
    4. Tesla offers complimentary upgrades for customers purchasing inventory Model Y vehicles, including free color options and wheel upgrades.
    5. The new financing promotion is available for buyers with strong credit who ordered the Model Y on or after July 17, with no specified end date.

    It didn’t take much time after the last financing promotion for the Model Y before Tesla kicked off a new one. Even though demand is expected to remain strong this quarter, especially with the federal tax credit for the Model Y ending on September 30, the company aims to boost sales further.

    Previous Offers and Extensions

    Tesla had previously provided a 1.99% APR deal for the Model Y, which was originally set to end on June 16. However, it was extended until the end of last month, likely to help bolster their sales figures for the quarter.

    New Financing Deal

    Now that we are just past the first half of the month, Tesla is rolling out a new financing deal for the Model Y at a rate of 3.49%. This is a decrease from the 4.99% interest rate that has been in effect since the start of July.

    This promo financing is available for buyers with strong credit who ordered the Model Y on or after July 17. Notably, Tesla has not specified an end date for this offer, simply labeling it as “for a limited time.”

    Down Payment and Financing Terms

    Additionally, the minimum down payment has been lowered to just 5%, down from the standard 15%. Tesla has also stated that customers who qualify for the tax credit can apply it as part of their down payment on the Model Y. The financing terms range from 3 to 5 years, although the 72-month financing option does revert back to a 5% APR. Meanwhile, leasing for the Model Y now starts at only $349.

    Inventory Model Y Vehicles

    Tesla has also launched an interesting promotion for their inventory Model Y vehicles. Customers who order a Model Y that is already in stock will receive one complimentary upgrade.

    Checking Tesla’s inventory shows that these free upgrades can differ by vehicle, including free color options that typically cost extra, along with 20″ wheel upgrades. There are also some free interior upgrades, providing various choices for buyers.

    Some colors for the Model Y, like Ultra Red or Quicksilver, are priced at $2,000, as are the 20” Helix 2.0 Wheels. This represents the maximum discount that Tesla is offering for an inventory Model Y with these features.

    For example, a Long Range RWD Model Y in Quicksilver can now be purchased for $37,490 instead of $39,490 after considering the tax credit. However, the new upgrade promotions cannot be combined, meaning you can’t get both a free color and free 20″ wheels at the same time.

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  • Tesla Model Y Robotaxi Ride Prices Expand Beyond Waymo Areas

    Tesla Model Y Robotaxi Ride Prices Expand Beyond Waymo Areas

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla has expanded its robotaxi service area beyond Waymo’s in Austin and raised ride fares by 65%, from $4.20 to $6.9.
    2. The new fare is a fixed price for rides, aimed at testing the Robotaxi app and payment system rather than generating profit.
    3. Tesla’s robotaxi service currently covers about 7% of Waymo’s area, with plans for further expansion to cities like San Francisco.
    4. Future two-seater Cybercabs may lower the cost per mile to around 25 cents, making the service more competitive.
    5. Cybercabs will use wireless charging and automatic cleaning, indicating advanced features for the Robotaxi platform in the future.

    The Tesla Robotaxi ride-share service has now expanded its reach beyond Waymo’s area in Austin, where it is currently running a pilot program.

    Price Increase

    In just three weeks since launching, Tesla has significantly increased the size of the geofenced robotaxi service area and, in a rather cheeky move, has also raised the ride fare. The cost of a robotaxi ride has jumped by an eye-catching 65%, soaring from $4.20 to the new price of $6.9.

    Elon Musk often includes the number 420 as a fun Easter egg, and with Tesla fans urging him to play with the number 69 ahead of the Robotaxi launch, this new fare might just be a playful joke—similar to the shape of the expanded service area on the map.

    Testing the Waters

    This $6.9 charge is a fixed price, no matter how many miles are traveled. The purpose of this pricing is not to recover operational costs or generate profit for Tesla, but mainly to test the Robotaxi app and its payment system.

    Currently, the Tesla Robotaxi platform covers about 7% of Waymo’s overall service area in the US, with plans to expand to San Francisco and other cities by year-end. This growth will necessitate Tesla to establish more realistic pricing soon, allowing for a fair comparison of its Robotaxi service with other ride-share options in the market.

    Future Prospects

    Elon Musk has stated that when the two-seater Cybercabs begin robotaxi service next year and are produced in larger quantities, the cost per mile could potentially drop to as low as 25 cents, making them highly competitive.

    However, the Cybercab won’t be able to utilize Superchargers or a Tesla wall connector; instead, they will be charged wirelessly on special pads and cleaned automatically by robots. This hints at exciting developments ahead for the Robotaxi platform, extending beyond its current trial in Austin.

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  • Recycling Tesla Car Batteries for Autonomous Transport Robots

    Recycling Tesla Car Batteries for Autonomous Transport Robots

    Key Takeaways

    1. Daedong Robotics has launched the RT100, an agricultural robot powered by repurposed Tesla vehicle batteries, highlighting innovative recycling practices.
    2. Poen specializes in upcycling EV batteries by testing and remanufacturing decommissioned Tesla battery cells into new packs for the RT100.
    3. The RT100 can follow farmers, assist in harvesting, and navigate uneven terrain with a load capacity of 300 kg and a speed of 5 mph.
    4. AI functionality allows the RT100 to respond to voice commands through the Daedong app, enhancing its usability in agricultural tasks.
    5. Companies like Redwood Materials demonstrate that over 95% of valuable materials from EV batteries can be recycled, promoting sustainability in energy solutions.

    Decommissioned batteries from older Tesla vehicles are now being repurposed to power autonomous transport robots used in agriculture.

    Innovations in Agricultural Robotics

    Daedong Robotics, known for its automated lawnmowers akin to the well-known Segway Navimow in the United States, has launched the RT100. This compact robot is designed for agricultural tasks and is powered by used battery cells sourced from Tesla cars. This initiative not only showcases recycling practices but also highlights the potential for reusing electric vehicle batteries.

    Collaboration for Sustainable Energy

    The RT100 features replaceable battery modules supplied by Poen, a company specializing in upcycling EV batteries. Poen tests individual cylindrical LG cells from decommissioned Tesla packs and disassembles those that still have enough capacity. They repair and remanufacture these cells into new battery packs, providing an economical power source for Daedong’s agricultural robots.

    Smart Functionality in the Field

    The RT100 follows farmers around, adjusting its loading bed to assist in collecting harvested fruit, then transports the produce to unload before heading back. With a 4×4 drivetrain, it is capable of navigating uneven ground and can easily maneuver in tight orchard spaces.

    The RT100 has a maximum load capacity of approximately 300 kg, or 662 pounds, and can reach speeds of five miles per hour. Additionally, it features AI functionality that allows it to respond to voice commands from its operator through the dedicated Daedong app.

    Recycling for a Greener Future

    According to Redwood Materials, a leading force in battery recycling and led by Tesla co-founder JB Straubel, more than 95% of valuable materials like lithium, nickel, and cobalt can be recovered after an electric vehicle battery pack’s life has ended.

    Like the collaborative efforts of Daedong and Poen, Redwood is also involved in EV battery upcycling initiatives. They are working on projects such as creating an energy storage system for local grids using old EV battery cells, demonstrating the practicality of these recycling efforts.

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  • Grok AI Now Available in Tesla Vehicles with Latest Update

    Grok AI Now Available in Tesla Vehicles with Latest Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla’s latest software update (2025.26) introduces Grok AI to vehicles with AMD processors, still in beta testing.
    2. The update includes new features like Accent lights that sync with music, available on select models.
    3. Users can create and save multiple presets for audio settings and enjoy enhanced Dashcam Viewer functionalities.
    4. Improved charging information is provided, including details on valet services and parking options at charging locations.
    5. An Onboarding Guide is now available to help new Tesla owners navigate their vehicle’s features.

    The lines between Elon Musk’s various companies are becoming increasingly indistinct as another product makes its way across different business boundaries. Tesla has just rolled out a software update that introduces the well-known Grok AI to the extensive list of intelligent features present in its cars.

    Software Update Details

    Per the official Tesla account on X, the update 2025.26 brings Grok to vehicles in the US that feature AMD processors. This feature is still in beta testing, meaning drivers can’t use it for vehicle control, and it doesn’t interfere with current voice commands.

    To access the new AI functionality, users must have Premium Connectivity or a WiFi connection.

    About Grok and Other Features

    Grok was created by xAI and made its debut in 2023. It has been integrated into X, significantly improving its ability to perform real-time searches.

    While Grok is certainly a highlight, it isn’t the only feature included in update 2025.26. The update also brings Accent lights (Light Sync) that can react to music. Users can create a more immersive experience by syncing the lights with the colors of an album. This feature is available only on the latest Model 3, Model Y, and the 2026 editions of Model S, Model X, and Cybertruck.

    Additional Functionalities and User Experience

    The software update also enables the creation and saving of multiple presets tailored to users’ listening habits in the settings. Furthermore, Tesla has enhanced the Dashcam Viewer app by adding zooming features and options to adjust playback speed. For Cybertruck users, a grid view is now available, making it simpler to access and review recordings.

    Another important aspect of this update is the improved information regarding charging at different locations. Drivers can now see which charging spots require valet services or pay-to-park options directly in the charger list. Additionally, they will receive notifications with details such as access codes, parking limitations, level or floor information, and restroom availability.

    Onboarding Assistance for New Owners

    Lastly, Tesla has introduced an Onboarding Guide designed to assist new Tesla owners in getting accustomed to their vehicles. This guide provides a quick overview of how to adjust settings, control lights, manage wipers, and use Autopilot, among other features.

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  • Tesla Launches in New Country to Boost Sales Amid Challenges

    Tesla Launches in New Country to Boost Sales Amid Challenges

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla is planning to open its first showroom in Mumbai, with potential deliveries starting in August.
    2. The company faces significant challenges due to high import taxes (70%) on cars manufactured abroad, which could raise prices for Indian consumers.
    3. Previous discussions about building a local factory in India did not progress, increasing reliance on exports.
    4. Tesla is exploring the Indian market without full commitment, assessing potential demand before long-term investment.
    5. India’s growing awareness of environmental issues and advancements in electric vehicle technology could influence Tesla’s success in the market.

    For a number of months, Tesla has been seeing a steady drop in sales, and the company led by Elon Musk is on the lookout for new markets globally. India, home to more than one billion people, is a promising market, if the people there show interest in Tesla’s vehicles.

    Tesla’s Plans for India

    Bloomberg News has reported that the electric and self-driving car maker is planning to open its first showroom in Mumbai, with deliveries potentially starting as soon as August. Additionally, Tesla announced this initiative on social media, particularly on X, where they created an Indian account and shared a photo of the Mumbai skyline with the text: “Coming soon.”

    Challenges Ahead

    However, entering this market poses significant challenges for the American firm. It’s important to note that the pricing dynamics are quite different, influenced by lower wages and wealth levels in India compared to the US. To complicate matters, Tesla will need to export cars that are already manufactured, facing a hefty 70% import tax, as reported by Reuters. This could lead to Tesla’s prices soaring, making them less accessible for many Indians.

    Future Considerations

    Moreover, it’s worth mentioning that Tesla had previously initiated talks with Indian officials about constructing a factory locally. Unfortunately, those discussions did not progress. Establishing a factory in India would have helped mitigate several challenges, like the import taxes that will now apply.

    Consequently, many uncertainties linger regarding this situation. It’s plausible that Tesla intends to explore the Indian market before committing to a long-term operation. Additionally, India is currently witnessing rapid advancements in this sector along with an increasing awareness of environmental concerns. Therefore, it will be essential to keep a close eye on the outcomes of this venture to determine if it succeeds, helping the company to flourish, or if it ends up being another setback that could jeopardize its future.

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  • Tesla Model Y Price Cut: Navigating Canada Tariffs as Delays Grow

    Tesla Model Y Price Cut: Navigating Canada Tariffs as Delays Grow

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla has cut the price of the Model Y in Canada by CA$20,000, reducing it from CA$84,990 to CA$64,990.
    2. Delivery times for the Model Y have increased, with customers facing waits from a few weeks to September-October.
    3. The price drop and delivery delays may be influenced by a 25% tariff imposed on US goods by Canada.
    4. Tesla plans to import Model Y units from its Berlin Gigafactory to avoid high import tariffs and regain market share.
    5. European car imports to Canada do not face tariffs, while vehicles from Tesla’s Giga Shanghai factory incur a 100% tariff.

    Tesla has made a significant change to the price of the Model Y in Canada, slashing it by a remarkable CA$20,000. This reduction brings the price down from CA$84,990 (which is about 62,025 US dollars) to CA$64,990. In the US, the same Model Y Long Range RWD model has a starting price of $48,990, which is more than 20% lower than the Canadian price.

    Delivery Delays

    Alongside this major price cut, there’s been a noticeable increase in delivery times. Customers now face a wait that stretches from a few weeks to the September-October timeframe. To help ease the waiting period, Tesla has also introduced a new color option for the Model Y called Diamond Black, which was previously only available in the US.

    Tariffs Impacting Prices

    The significant price drop and the extended delivery time suggest that tariffs might be influencing these changes. Canada imposed a 25% reciprocal tariff on US goods following similar actions taken by the Trump administration. This tariff had previously caused Tesla to raise its prices in Canada back in May.

    Since then, Tesla has been managing to sell vehicles at prices prior to the tariffs, but that advantage is fading fast. The combination of a steep 25% price hike due to tariffs and Elon Musk’s controversial political stance in Canada has led to a sharp decline in sales in the region.

    Importing from Europe

    To regain some market share, Tesla is expected to start importing Model Y units from a factory that will only incur transportation fees, avoiding high import tariffs. The Berlin Gigafactory, which produces only Model Ys, appears to be the best option to navigate around the tariff issues in Canada.

    Interestingly, European car imports to Canada do not face tariffs, thanks to the CETA trade agreement signed between Canada and the EU. In contrast, vehicles imported from the Giga Shanghai factory now face a 100% tariff, while those from Giga Texas or Fremont have a 25% tariff due to reciprocal trade measures.

    The Trump administration has announced plans to escalate tariffs to 35%, with an additional 35% if Canada retaliates, which would make importing from the US even more impractical.

    This situation explains Tesla’s strategy to shift imports from Europe to bypass the newly established tariff barriers, resulting in longer wait times for Canadian customers awaiting their new Model Y as the company works to stabilize inventory levels and reduce delivery delays.

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