Tag: Tesla

  • Tesla Robotaxi Reveal Set for October 10, Invitations Sent to Shareholders

    Tesla Robotaxi Reveal Set for October 10, Invitations Sent to Shareholders

    It was originally anticipated that Tesla would reveal its previously leaked Robotaxi in August of this year. However, CEO Elon Musk decided to delay the event, mentioning changes to the vehicle’s front design and the need for extra time for final feature enhancements. Although Tesla had confirmed the Robotaxi event for October 10, expected to take place at the Warner Bros. studio in Los Angeles, CA, invitations had not yet been sent to shareholders, leaving room for further delays.

    Invitations and Expectations

    Today, several Tesla shareholders shared their invitations to the "We, Robot" event on the social media platform X. The anticipation is that Tesla will utilize the Warner Bros. film set for the Robotaxi unveiling. This choice would allow them to provide demo rides to attendees without facing legal issues related to public road testing. There is also speculation that FSD 13 might be announced and launched during this event. This new version is expected to bring features like automated reverse parking and significantly cut down the number of interventions needed for every mile driven on FSD.

    Future of FSD

    It’s important to note that FSD 13 is still anticipated to be a supervised version of Tesla’s automated driving system. This raises questions about how the company plans to achieve full autonomy with the Robotaxi. Earlier this month, the Robotaxi was spotted on the Warner Bros. lot, showcasing a new front bumper design and an unusual appearance that could either be a disguise or a cover for advanced self-driving technology and sensors. The location of this sighting further indicates that the vehicle will be showcased on the film set instead of on public streets.

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  • High-Mileage Model Y Battery Degradation Shows Tesla Longevity

    High-Mileage Model Y Battery Degradation Shows Tesla Longevity

    According to Tesla, its electric vehicle batteries typically lose about 12%-15% of their original capacity by the time they reach 200,000 miles, varying by model. The Model Y, Tesla’s most popular vehicle, was introduced in 2020, and there are now examples that have surpassed the 200,000-mile mark.

    High Mileage Model Ys

    Some Model Ys have exceeded 210,000 miles, while others are approaching the 200,000-mile threshold with the average battery degradation Tesla mentions. Interestingly, some owners report extensive usage and rely solely on Superchargers for charging. One owner with a 180,000-mile Model Y has experienced only 12% battery degradation and charges the vehicle rapidly two times a day without a noticeable increase in battery capacity loss.

    Charging Habits and Battery Degradation

    A recent study has shown that the battery capacity loss from frequent Supercharger use versus slow charging from home wall chargers is statistically negligible. Research from Recurrent indicates that Tesla owners who frequently use Superchargers—around 90% of the time—show similar battery degradation rates as those who use them less often. The high-mileage examples of Model Ys support these findings.

    Historical Context of Battery Performance

    It’s worth noting that Tesla’s official statistics on battery degradation likely do not include early Model S vehicles produced until fall 2015. These older models had a fuse door at the top of the battery pack that could allow moisture to damage them prematurely. While these vehicles contribute to the average EV battery failure rate, they do not affect the average degradation figures because they often did not reach 200,000 miles before the battery was replaced, typically under warranty.

    Nonetheless, some Model S units have been recorded with up to 430,000 miles on their original battery, showing a 28% degradation after eight years. This aligns closely with the capacity loss that Tesla predicts for every 200,000 miles of usage.

    Future Battery Performance

    As the Model 3 and Model Y utilize newer battery technology, the average capacity degradation for Tesla vehicles may improve over time. More Model Y units are expected to surpass the 200,000-mile mark, potentially leading to better overall battery performance statistics.

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  • Tesla Cybertruck Window Breaks After 12 Blows in Firefighter Test

    Tesla Cybertruck Window Breaks After 12 Blows in Firefighter Test

    The Tesla Cybertruck captured attention when it debuted at a Los Angeles event in 2019. Its unique, angular design was striking, but the real buzz came after a demonstration where the truck’s "armored glass" shattered unexpectedly when Elon Musk threw a steel ball at it. This moment quickly went viral, eclipsing other features of the truck. Nonetheless, pre-orders skyrocketed, and now, nearly five years later, another demonstration has showcased the strength of the Cybertruck’s windows.

    Firefighters Put the Glass to the Test

    In a recent training exercise, firefighters attempted to break the Cybertruck’s glass to assess its durability. The test revealed that it took three strikes for the first crack to appear and almost twelve strikes to completely shatter the window. This exercise highlighted the robustness of the Cybertruck’s reinforced glass—a significant aspect that Tesla emphasizes. For first responders, knowing how resilient these windows are is crucial, especially when they need to breach a vehicle’s glass in emergencies, like during accidents or rescue missions.

    Safety Considerations in Emergency Situations

    During the glass-breaking test, the firefighters did not use their full strength while striking the Cybertruck’s windows. Their main concern in real-life scenarios is ensuring the safety of anyone trapped inside the vehicle. When breaking glass in emergencies, responders must be cautious to prevent shards from flying inward, which could injure the occupants.

    Concerns About Escape in Emergencies

    However, the impressive durability of the Cybertruck’s windows does raise some questions. If the glass is excessively strong, it may hinder individuals inside from escaping during a critical situation, such as after an accident. While the security features are beneficial, there is a risk that the windows’ strength could delay rescue efforts or make it difficult for occupants to exit quickly. Future real-world tests may provide further insights into these concerns.

    Owen Sparks (@OwenSparks_ on X/Twitter)

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  • Affordable Model Y Puddle Lights with High-Def Tesla Logo

    Affordable Model Y Puddle Lights with High-Def Tesla Logo

    After a successful introduction in China, Tesla has now brought an affordable and eye-catching accessory to the US: car door puddle lights.

    Affordable Pricing and Easy Installation

    These new Model 3 and Model Y Projection Lights are available for only $65, making them a competitive option compared to other Tesla accessories. Installing them is straightforward; just remove the current driver and passenger door lights and replace them with the new $65 lights.

    Although a 4-pack of similar Model Y projection lights is available for half the price on Amazon, they are not official Tesla products. The official puddle lights from Tesla project a high-definition logo onto the ground whenever the doors are opened.

    Unique Features of Tesla’s Puddle Lights

    According to Tesla, "Model Y Projection Lights project a high-definition Tesla wordmark onto the ground every time you open the door of your Model Y." This set includes two projection lights designed to replace the standard door lights of both the Model 3 and Model Y. The old lights can be easily removed with a flathead screwdriver, and the new puddle lights can be installed by connecting the existing cable.

    Tesla has also introduced an ambient light retrofit for the Model Y in China, which pairs well with the new Projection Lights accessory. This RGB retrofit, featuring 256 colors, costs $180 in China. However, it requires modifications to the textile dashboard of the updated 2023 Model Y, meaning the wood grain dashboard must be swapped out.

    Simple Replacement Process

    Fortunately, no such modifications are needed for the new official Model Y Projection Lights, as they simply replace the existing lights at the bottom of the driver and passenger doors.

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  • Tesla Shifts Focus to Charging Infrastructure, Drops Thailand Factory

    Tesla Shifts Focus to Charging Infrastructure, Drops Thailand Factory

    Tesla has decided to put its plans for a manufacturing plant in Thailand on hold. Instead, the company will focus on enhancing its charging infrastructure within the nation.

    Shift in Priorities

    The change in strategy comes after earlier discussions between Tesla and Thai officials, including a notable meeting in November 2023 between Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Although initial conversations pointed to a potential $5 billion investment for a factory in Thailand, Tesla has chosen to prioritize the development of charging infrastructure over local production.

    Global Strategy

    This move is in line with Tesla’s overarching global approach, which centers on expanding its charging network to facilitate the increasing adoption of electric vehicles. As the company continues to boost production at its existing plants in China, the United States, and Germany, Tesla seems to be directing its resources toward market expansion and charging infrastructure rather than establishing new manufacturing sites.

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  • Tesla Releases FSD v12.5.1 Update

    Tesla Releases FSD v12.5.1 Update

    Tesla has started deploying its FSD (Full Self-Driving) v12.5.1 update to a select number of vehicles. This new version promises significant enhancements, including the merging of urban and highway driving functionalities, which were previously separate.

    Key Features and Initial Rollout

    The Cybertruck will be the first to receive the latest update. Packaged with software version 2024.20.15, this milestone in Tesla’s autonomous driving technology introduces several key features. Among them are earlier and more natural lane changes, improved driver monitoring, and expanded compatibility, with the Cybertruck at the forefront of receiving the FSD capability.

    Elon Musk’s Vision and Future Plans

    Elon Musk has shown confidence in the v12.5.x updates, emphasizing anticipated reductions in driver interventions per mile. Moreover, the upcoming “Actual Smart Summon” feature will debut in this version, functioning independently of the main FSD system.

    Initially, the rollout targets Model Y vehicles equipped with HW4 hardware. However, Tesla intends to extend FSD v12.5 compatibility to additional models in the future.

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  • Tesla’s Second-gen Optimus Robot Demonstrates Battery Work in Factory

    Tesla’s Second-gen Optimus Robot Demonstrates Battery Work in Factory

    Tesla's Optimus humanoid robot has resurfaced, showcasing its ability to handle a practical task: the precise placement of battery cells into a tray. In a video released by Tesla on May 5th, the robot's advancements are highlighted, demonstrating its proficiency in interpreting 2D camera footage and sensor data through a trained neural network. This enables Optimus to autonomously generate the required joint movements for the task at hand.

    Optimus Robots in Action

    Tesla has confirmed that multiple Optimus robots are now actively utilized within their factories. These robots are engaged in daily operational testing and refinement at real workstations. Despite successfully navigating office settings for prolonged periods without issues, the quest for increased operational speeds remains an ongoing area of development.

    Future Outlook and Projections

    Elon Musk, Tesla's CEO, had previously outlined his expectations for Optimus during the first-quarter earnings call. Musk anticipates that by the end of the year, Optimus will be proficient in executing "useful" tasks within the factory setting. Tesla's objective includes integrating Optimus into their production facilities before the year concludes, with potential plans for external sales by the close of 2025.

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  • Tesla Marks 10th Anniversary in China: 1.7M+ Owners & Growing

    Tesla Marks 10th Anniversary in China: 1.7M+ Owners & Growing

    Today is a momentous occasion for Tesla in China as the company commemorates the 10th anniversary of introducing its inaugural Model S cars to Chinese customers. Since its inception in 2014, Tesla has witnessed substantial growth within China’s electric vehicle sector.

    To mark this significant milestone, Tesla Asia shared a celebratory message emphasizing the safety achievements of the Model S and the continuous dedication of the company to advancing electric vehicle technology.

    Tesla’s Impact in China

    With a vast community of over 1.7 million Tesla owners in China and a global network exceeding 6 million, Tesla’s influence on the automotive industry is undeniable. China’s commitment to the adoption of new energy vehicles (NEVs) is evident as NEV ownership has surpassed 20 million.

    Key Moments in Tesla’s China Journey

    Noteworthy milestones in Tesla’s venture in China include handing over Model S keys to the first Chinese owners, such as prominent personalities like Lei Jun, the founder of Xiaomi, and Li Xiang, the founder of Li Auto. The establishment of the Shanghai Gigafactory in late 2019 represented a significant turning point for Tesla in China, boasting an annual capacity of over 950,000 vehicles, making it Tesla’s largest facility worldwide.

    Safety Features and Market Strategy

    Tesla’s Model S has gained acclaim for its safety features, achieving a maximum 5-star safety rating from Euro NCAP and U.S. NHTSA across all NHTSA subcategories in 2014. The active safety system, incorporating technologies like Autopilot hardware and Lane Departure Warning, showcases Tesla’s unwavering dedication to innovation and safety.

    In response to escalating competition, Tesla recently enacted a price reduction across its entire model lineup, bolstering its attractiveness in the Chinese market. The latest announcement revealed a price cut of 14,000 yuan ($1,930), rendering Tesla vehicles even more accessible to consumers.

    Tesla Marks 10th Anniversary in China: 1.7M+ Owners & Growing
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  • Tesla Recalls 4,000 Cybertrucks for Accelerator Pedal Issue

    Tesla Recalls 4,000 Cybertrucks for Accelerator Pedal Issue

    This time, Tesla is not sending out more Cybertrucks; rather, the company is recalling nearly 4,000 Cybertrucks due to a potentially significant issue with the accelerator pedal. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has highlighted that the pedal's cover might dislodge and get stuck in the floor trim, leading the vehicle to accelerate even when the driver removes their foot, posing a notable risk.

    Problem Identified: Excessive Lubricant

    Videos shared online reveal the root cause: an excess of lubricant on the pedal cover. This surplus lubrication enables the cover to move upwards and jam itself in place, hindering the pedal's full return to its original position. Consequently, unintended acceleration becomes a distinct possibility, creating a safety hazard.

    Tesla's Response and Resolution

    Tesla has assured that they will replace or repair the faulty accelerator pedals at zero cost for owners. Although official recall notifications are set to be sent out in June, concerned Cybertruck drivers can proactively reach out to Tesla immediately at +1-877-798-3752 and refer to the recall service number SB-24-33-003 to schedule a service appointment.

    Recent Developments and Challenges

    This recall emerges amidst a series of recent updates for Tesla Cybertruck owners. Delivery schedules have experienced setbacks, with many likely informed about the impending recall as a reason for these delays. Notably, Tesla recorded its first year-over-year drop in deliveries since 2020, witnessing a 20% decline compared to the previous quarter. The company has also initiated staff reductions to streamline operations and enhance efficiency. Despite facing recent hurdles, Tesla has outlined a focus on efficiency moving into 2024, with CEO Elon Musk hinting at a slower sales growth trajectory for the year.

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  • Tesla Resolves Lawsuit with Family of Apple Engineer in Autopilot Crash

    Tesla Resolves Lawsuit with Family of Apple Engineer in Autopilot Crash

    Tesla announced on August 15 that they have reached an amicable settlement agreement with Apple engineer Walter Huang’s family over his death on March 2018 while recent court proceedings continue to play out regarding their Autopilot driver-assistance system. The settlement will end any legal challenges from either side regarding Autopilot driver assistance system.

    Settlement Agreement and Procedure

    NTSB’s investigation of this accident identified Autopilot functionality and driver distraction as contributing factors, but details regarding any settlement have yet to be made public; an agreement awaits court approval with an April 11th hearing date set as per agreement terms; California Department of Transportation can raise objections at this stage if desired.

    Legal Maneuvers And Tech Company Involvement

    Tesla had originally attempted to subpoena Apple to establish whether Huang had been engaged in mobile gaming at the time of her crash – an action they believed may suggest negligence by Tesla itself. Although authorities found an open game app on Huang’s phone during that incident period, their active usage couldn’t be confirmed at that time by authorities; contrary to Tesla’s efforts of implicating Apple via their subpoena efforts. Apple declined.

    Conclusion And Unresolved Issues

    This settlement marks a successful conclusion to an extensive legal battle concerning Autopilot technology; yet many questions still exist over driver attentiveness and Autopilot responsibilities during tragic incidents.

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