Tag: Tesla

  • Model Y Juniper FSD 13 Test Ride: Improved Self-Driving Comfort

    Model Y Juniper FSD 13 Test Ride: Improved Self-Driving Comfort

    Key Takeaways

    1. The refreshed Model Y Juniper features the new Hardware 4.0 (AI4) suite, including a unique 4D cabin radar for enhanced passenger monitoring.
    2. The 4D radar can recognize back seat occupancy, monitor passenger vital signs, and automate safety responses like opening windows or contacting emergency services.
    3. Tesla’s latest FSD 13 software shows significant improvements in self-driving performance, requiring no driver input during testing.
    4. Upgrades to suspension, ride height, and seating enhance overall ride comfort for passengers in the Model Y Juniper.
    5. The new model includes a physical turn signal stalk, responding to user requests for improved manual driving features.

    The first chance for the public to test drive the refreshed Model Y Juniper, equipped with the latest FSD 13 software, has been quite exciting, showing great potential.

    New Features and Hardware

    Tesla has outfitted the refreshed Model Y with the familiar Hardware 4.0 (AI4) suite, which includes high-resolution cameras and sensors seen in previous Model Y versions, as well as in the Model 3 and Cybertruck. However, this facelift stands out due to some unique hardware features, including a new 4D cabin radar. This radar is different from the one in older Model Y versions produced after November 2021, which was activated via a software update. The new 4D radar can also sense back seat occupancy.

    Safety and Comfort Innovations

    In addition to recognizing the size and weight of passengers for airbag deployment in case of an accident, the radar can monitor their pulse and breathing. This allows the car to automatically open windows, activate the A/C, or even contact emergency services if the app’s alert isn’t responded to by the owner.

    The tester for the Model Y Juniper FSD remarked that Tesla’s latest self-driving software performs as well as ever, requiring no input from him during the drive shown in the video below. He noted significant improvements in ride comfort compared to the previous Model Y.

    Enhanced Driving Experience

    The Juniper refresh features a completely redesigned suspension, lower ride height, and slightly larger, more comfortable vented seats. These small upgrades collectively provide a better experience for passengers. Additionally, it now includes a physical turn signal stalk for manual driving, something that owners of the Model 3 refresh have been requesting for some time.

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  • Tesla Cars in the US Receive Long-Awaited Matrix Headlights

    Tesla Cars in the US Receive Long-Awaited Matrix Headlights

    Key Takeaways

    1. Introduction of Matrix Headlights: Tesla is set to introduce Matrix Headlights in the United States, enhancing nighttime driving safety.

    2. Functionality: Matrix Headlights adjust brightness using external cameras to prevent glare for other drivers while illuminating essential road areas for Tesla drivers.

    3. First Model to Receive Update: The Tesla Model Y will be the first to get Matrix Headlights through a software update.

    4. Other Models to Follow: Tesla Model 3 and Model X will also receive the feature, provided they have the necessary hardware.

    5. Regulatory Challenges: Tesla faced regulatory hurdles before launching Matrix Headlights in the U.S., despite its existing use in Europe as Adaptive Lighting.

    US Tesla buyers can finally rejoice as their wait for a highly anticipated feature is nearing its conclusion. The electric vehicle manufacturer is set to introduce Matrix Headlights in the United States.

    What are Matrix Headlights?

    Matrix Headlights, often referred to as adaptive headlights or pixel lighting, serve a valuable purpose during night-time or in dim conditions. They adjust the headlight brightness by utilizing external cameras that identify which pixels to dim, preventing glare for other drivers. This technology enhances the visibility of oncoming vehicles while allowing Tesla drivers to maintain full illumination of crucial road areas.

    Rollout of the Feature

    In a recent response on X, Lars Moravy, who is the Vice President of Vehicle Engineering, announced that the new Tesla Model Y will be the first to receive Matrix Headlights through a software update. Other models, including Model 3 and Model X, are set to follow, as long as they have the necessary hardware for the feature.

    This technology has already been in use on Tesla vehicles across Europe, where it’s branded as Adaptive Lighting. However, Tesla had to navigate regulatory hurdles before it could launch the feature in the United States.

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  • Tesla Unlocks Model Y Radar Features with Free Hardware Upgrade

    Tesla Unlocks Model Y Radar Features with Free Hardware Upgrade

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new Model Y Juniper features a 4D cabin radar for advanced occupancy detection, measuring factors like size, height, weight, and heart rate.

    2. A recent software update (2025.2.6) enables occupancy detection in older Model Y vehicles that have had dormant cabin radar since November 2021.

    3. Tesla clarified that all new 2025 Model Ys come standard with an updated first-row cabin sensing system using cabin radar, which older models also possess the hardware for.

    4. The advanced 4D radar in the new Model Y can monitor back seat occupancy and respond to changes in heart rate, potentially taking actions like opening windows or contacting emergency services.

    5. Tesla is offering “hardware replacement” service invitations for older units, allowing owners to install the new software update, though it remains unclear if they will receive the new 4D cabin radar.

    The new Model Y Juniper facelift features a 4D cabin radar, which Tesla’s chief engineer Lars Moravy explained in an interview with Jay Leno is designed for advanced occupancy detection. This includes measurements such as “size, height, weight, heart rate.”

    Software Update for Older Models

    With the recent 2025.2.6 software update, Tesla is enabling occupancy detection in older Model Y vehicles that have had a dormant cabin radar since November 2021. The 2022 Model Y and newer versions, along with the refreshed Model 3 and Cybertruck, all have a radar positioned under the headliner just above the rearview mirror that has not been utilized until now.

    Clarification for Owners

    Tesla has stated that the “first-row cabin sensing system has been updated to use cabin radar, which is now standard in all new 2025 Model Ys.” They also reassured owners that their “Model Y was built pre-equipped with the necessary hardware” to avoid confusion about the sudden presence of radar in their cars.

    Lars Moravy indicated that Tesla has integrated radar into the seat sensors to assess passenger size, which aids in deciding which airbags to activate during a crash, among other safety improvements.

    Limitations of Older Units

    The cabin radar in older Model Y units will only function as part of a “first-row cabin sensing system.” In contrast, the new Model Y Juniper is equipped with a 4D radar that also monitors back seat occupancy. This advanced system can detect the breathing and pulse rates of passengers and respond accordingly. For instance, if a child or pet is left in the back seat and their heart rate increases, the Model Y facelift may automatically open a window or adjust the A/C and alert the driver via the Tesla app. In extreme cases, it can even contact emergency services.

    It remains uncertain which features will be available for older Model Y units, as currently, Tesla is only enabling radar for occupancy detection and dynamic airbag deployment, which will also apply to the Model 3 and Cybertruck.

    Hardware Replacement Invitations

    While the older units might not support pulse detection or second-row occupancy like the new Model Y Juniper, Tesla has begun sending surprise “hardware replacement” service invitations. These notifications read “Cabin Radar Replacement,” and Tesla offers a free swap at a service center if the owner wants to download and install the “Spring 2025 software update.”

    Whether this indicates that some older Model Y vehicles will receive the new 4D cabin radar with the Juniper facelift or if their current units are simply considered defective, affecting the software update, is still unclear.

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  • Tesla Fights Theft by Stamping Name on Supercharger Cables

    Tesla Fights Theft by Stamping Name on Supercharger Cables

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla’s Supercharger network is now open to non-Tesla electric vehicles globally.
    2. Cable theft poses a significant challenge, making it difficult for users to find chargers.
    3. Tesla is engraving “Property of Tesla Motors” on Supercharger cables to deter theft.
    4. The engraving strategy aims to make it harder for thieves to sell stolen cables to recycling centers.
    5. Additional protective measures include wrapping cables with cut-resistant materials and using dye to mark thieves.

    Tesla’s Supercharger network is now allowing non-Tesla electric vehicles (EVs) to charge their batteries all around the world. But there’s a big problem: cable theft is always a risk, which makes it harder for people to find chargers. To combat this issue, Tesla is coming up with innovative ways to stop thieves. The newest tactic is to engrave its name on the chargers, making it harder for stolen items to be sold.

    Engraving for Protection

    Max de Zegher, Tesla’s Head of Charging, mentioned that “Property of Tesla Motors” will be engraved onto the copper within the Supercharger cables during their manufacturing. In a response on X, he pointed out that this is just one of the strategies the company is considering as they tackle vandalism.

    Thwarting Thieves

    With the Tesla name clearly marked, it would make it tough for thieves to sell the cables to recycling centers. De Zegher suggested that these companies should alert Tesla if they are approached with stolen charging cables. He reassured that this method is inexpensive and won’t interfere with the charging service or customer satisfaction.

    Additional Measures

    Tesla is also taking other steps to prevent cable damage. For instance, they are wrapping Supercharger cables with materials that resist cutting. Additionally, those who attempt to vandalize or steal the cables will be caught off guard by dye and ink that will burst all over them from beneath the wrapping.

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  • Tesla’s 2024 Production and Deliveries Drop for First Time in Years

    Tesla’s 2024 Production and Deliveries Drop for First Time in Years

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla experienced a 4% reduction in vehicle production in 2024, the first decline since 2020, with a notable drop in models Y and 3.
    2. Total vehicle production for the year was 1.77 million, down from 1.84 million in 2023, despite a 33% increase in production of other models.
    3. Deliveries fell by 1%, largely due to a 2% decrease in models Y and 3, but were partially offset by a 33% increase in other model deliveries.
    4. Financial results showed a 1% rise in total revenues, despite a 6% decline in automotive revenues, aided by growth in energy generation and storage.
    5. Tesla is planning to boost truck production in late 2025, launching new budget-friendly vehicles, and has started production at its Shanghai megafactory for large energy storage batteries.

    In 2024, Tesla saw a 4% reduction in vehicle production, largely due to a 5% fall in the output of models Y and 3, as per the financial documents. This was the first decrease in production since 2020. On the other hand, production of other models rose significantly, by 33% throughout the year. Tesla managed to produce 1.77 million vehicles, a decline from 1.84 million in 2023.

    Deliveries and Trends

    Alongside this production dip, deliveries also fell by 1%, with the largest drop occurring in models Y and 3, which saw a decrease of 2%. However, these declines were somewhat balanced out by the increased production and delivery of other models, which grew by 33% and 24%, respectively. Still, their overall effect on total numbers was not as significant as that of models Y and 3.

    Financial Overview

    The financial outcomes revealed a 1% rise in total revenues, even with a 6% decrease in automotive revenues. The reports indicate that growth in energy generation and storage, along with other services, helped to mitigate the impact on the main segment.

    Tesla noted that the lowered selling prices for its models S, 3, X, and Y had a negative effect on revenues, particularly in the last quarter. Likewise, higher operating costs due to AI initiatives and R&D projects have influenced the company’s profitability.

    Future Plans

    Nonetheless, the company is advancing in the development of semifactories in the US, aiming to boost truck production starting in late 2025. For the upcoming year, Tesla anticipates launching new vehicles, including some more budget-friendly options.

    As the energy generation and storage sector expands, Tesla has commenced production at its Shanghai megafactory, which has been under construction since May 2024. This facility is expected to manufacture around 10,000 units of Megapack, a very large commercial energy storage battery capable of storing over 3.9 megawatt-hours (MWh) of energy.

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  • Tesla Colorado Store Vandalized for the Third Time

    Tesla Colorado Store Vandalized for the Third Time

    Tesla’s Colorado location has been hit by vandals and suspected arsonists for the third time. The incident occurred early Friday morning, as per a report from the Loveland Police Department. Officers arrived hours later to conduct initial investigations.

    Graffiti and Damage

    The building and surrounding vehicles were found covered in hateful and offensive graffiti. While police have not disclosed the specific phrases used, media outlets have shared images of cars with large Xs painted on their windshields. Additionally, the vandals wrote “NAZI CARS” on the outside of the dealership.

    Previous Incidents and Ongoing Investigations

    Similar vandalism events took place on January 29th and February 2nd at the same site. The local police are collaborating with the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to investigate. They are urging anyone with information to come forward.

    Elon Musk and Government Cuts

    Tesla’s CEO, Elon Musk, has become a prominent figure in the current government’s attempts to reduce federal spending. He has advocated for the elimination of federal agencies like USAID and has led layoffs of thousands of government workers, which has sparked strong reactions.

    International Incidents

    Tesla has also experienced attacks on its international stores. Just last week, a showroom in The Hague was defaced with insults, featuring terms like “Nazi” and “fascist,” along with swastika flags.

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  • Tesla Provides Lifetime Free Supercharging for Powerful Vehicles

    Tesla Provides Lifetime Free Supercharging for Powerful Vehicles

    When Tesla launched free lifetime Supercharging for the Model S, it quickly became a hit, even though its charging network was just starting out.

    Years later, those Model S vehicles that include free lifetime Supercharging still fetch higher prices in the resale market. This is true despite the fact that early models, particularly those made before 2016, had a known design flaw in the battery housing that caused failures.

    Battery Replacement Boosts Value

    If the battery was swapped out under warranty, or by the previous owner, and the valve issue was fixed, the Model S with free charging became even more desirable. The same applies to the Model X, which was sold with transferable free Supercharging until March 2017.

    Fresh Incentives for Sales

    Tesla is currently looking to attract buyers in America and Europe for its pricier high-performance models, the Model S and Model X, by offering the same free Supercharging incentive to boost sales. Given that the Model S and Model X make up a small portion of Tesla’s total sales, they’re not losing a lot with this offer. Additionally, the price of the Model X has been raised, putting it above the federal tax credit limit. Elon Musk likely understands that the Trump administration might eliminate the EV tax credit program, similar to what happened with the national EV charging network, so Tesla could be adjusting its incentives accordingly.

    Changes to the Offer

    However, the free lifetime Supercharging deal for the Model S and Model X isn’t exactly the same as the initial offer. The original deal was transferable, while the current offer has specific terms:

    Customers who buy or lease a new Model S can enjoy free Supercharging as long as they own the vehicle. This offer is linked to the Tesla account and can’t be transferred to a different vehicle, person, or order, even if ownership changes. Used cars, business orders, and vehicles used for commercial purposes (like rideshares or deliveries) are not eligible. Owners are still responsible for Supercharger fees, including idle and congestion charges, if they apply. This promotion can be combined with other offers, but Tesla has the right to revoke free Supercharging if there are excessive charges or unpaid fees. The promotion may change or end at any time.

    In essence, while the free lifetime Supercharging for the Model S or Model X lasts as long as the buyer owns the vehicle—potentially up to 20 years—it is linked to the buyer’s Tesla account and cannot be passed on to the next owner. This keeps the resale value of the car elevated for a longer time.

    Recent Trends in Offers

    Tesla has applied this new approach to all its free lifetime Supercharging offers recently, including the one for the Cybertruck, as well as limited-time promotions used to clear out inventory in the last two quarters.

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  • Cybercab Profits at $15K: Tesla’s Robotaxi Passenger Solutions

    Cybercab Profits at $15K: Tesla’s Robotaxi Passenger Solutions

    With the drop in battery prices, Tesla’s Cybercab may turn a profit even at a price of $15,000, thanks to its efficiency per kWh of battery pack.

    However, this figure is lower than what Elon Musk stated during the Cybercab’s launch, where he mentioned it would be priced at twice that amount, not counting any subsidies or incentives. According to an analysis by ARK Invest concerning the potential of the robotaxi market, the cost could be achievable once produced on a larger scale.

    Efficiency and Costs

    Tesla has indicated that the Cybercab will achieve an efficiency of 5.5 miles per kWh. If we combine this with the expected decline in battery costs predicted by Wright’s Law, we might see battery costs drop to around $2,300. Generally, the drivetrain makes up around 20% of a vehicle’s overall cost, suggesting that a Cybercab could be profitable at or below $15,000.

    There are many assumptions involved here, and while ARK has a reputation for being overly optimistic, even if the price stays below $30,000 with subsidies, the real hurdles to getting Cybercabs on the streets have more to do with regulations than Tesla’s pricing.

    Regulatory Challenges Ahead

    Convincing regulators that a fully autonomous vehicle without a steering wheel or pedals is safe will take time. Even though Elon Musk has stated he will leverage his role in the DOGE project to expedite the regulatory process, whether that is a conflict of interest is still debatable.

    Tesla aims to kick off its robotaxi service with unsupervised Full Self-Driving (FSD) in Austin this June. However, the fleet will initially consist of Model Y Juniper and Model 3 vehicles, with Cybercabs expected to join only by 2026 at the soonest.

    Practical Considerations for Cybercabs

    There are also numerous practical issues to resolve, like the Cybercab’s wireless charging and cleaning systems. After rides, when passengers leave behind a mess, there won’t be a driver available to clean it up with a portable vacuum.

    Tesla has hinted that it has solutions for these challenges and is working on a self-cleaning mechanism for its Robotaxi fleet. A robotic arm is designed to enter a Cybercab and automatically identify items to remove, dispose of, or vacuum.

    In the end, it can even wipe away fingerprints from the display, preparing the Cybercab for the next passenger. However, it remains uncertain how effectively all these systems will function in real life and where the cleaning and charging stations for the Cybercabs will be set up.

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  • Tesla Model Y Juniper: 20-Year Lifespan Outshines Diesel Cars

    Tesla Model Y Juniper: 20-Year Lifespan Outshines Diesel Cars

    A recent study from the UK titled “the closing longevity gap between battery electric and internal combustion vehicles” suggests that concerns regarding the lifespan of electric vehicles (EVs) may be exaggerated.

    Improved Lifespan of Modern EVs

    The research indicates that earlier issues with electric cars, which led to more frequent repairs and shorter lifespans, have been largely resolved in today’s EVs. Their lifespans are now similar to those of gasoline cars, even when used more heavily. This is particularly evident for Tesla vehicles, with some models having already reached over 400,000 miles. Researchers noted, “Tesla’s EVs are expected to cover an average of 204,000 miles over their lifetime, surpassing all other brands regardless of powertrain.”

    Tesla vs. Other Brands

    When calculating the average expected lifespan of Tesla cars, the study found it to be 20.3 years, which is longer than both petrol and diesel vehicles. Among diesel cars, VW’s Skodas are predicted to last the longest at 17.4 years, but they will cover less distance than Teslas. For gasoline vehicles, Audis might last 20.9 years, slightly exceeding Tesla’s lifespan, though they typically have much lower usage, about 143,100 miles.

    Future Considerations for EV Longevity

    However, researchers warn that the electric vehicle sector is still quite new, and the costs of battery replacements need to decrease to truly take advantage of their extended technological lifespan. They stated, “To fully realize the benefits of a longer BEV lifespan, replacement batteries, if necessary, must be affordable relative to the residual value of BEVs without their original batteries.” As of 2020, the price for battery replacement ranged from US$4,000 for a 30 kWh Nissan battery to US$10,275 for a 75 kWh Tesla Model 3. In contrast, ICE vehicle transmission replacements cost between US$1,100 and US$3,400. If battery prices do not decline in a timely manner, owners may decide to dispose of their BEVs prematurely, which could distort comparisons of longevity with ICE vehicles.

    Advancements in EV Warranties

    Taking this into account, both electric vehicle and battery manufacturers are pushing for longer warranties to enhance the second-hand market. Companies like NIO and CATL are striving to establish a standard 15-year battery warranty, increasing from the current average of eight years.

    The technology behind battery cell chemistry has matured to the point where CATL can provide such warranties for swap stations or commercial batteries. If a 15-year warranty for EVs becomes common, the findings of this vehicle longevity study—suggesting that new Teslas, including the forthcoming Model Y Juniper, could last for 20 years—might signal a promising trend for the future.

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    Tesla Model Y Juniper: 20-Year Lifespan Outshines Diesel Cars
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  • In 2025, 66% of New EVs in China Will Feature Self-Driving Tech

    In 2025, 66% of New EVs in China Will Feature Self-Driving Tech

    China is poised for a significant advancement in self-driving technology. This year, 15 million new electric vehicles (EVs) will be fitted with Level 2 (L2) autonomous driving capabilities. Even affordable models with prices below 100,000 yuan (US$13,914) will now feature basic self-driving functions. This swift expansion is fueled by a decrease in the cost of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), making these advanced features more attainable for regular consumers.

    Future Projections

    By 2025, it is expected that two-thirds of new cars in China will possess L2 or more sophisticated autonomous features. L2 systems can manage steering, acceleration, and braking, but they still require the driver to remain attentive. More advanced L3+ features, which enable hands-free driving under specific conditions, are also on the rise, while complete automation (L4 and L5) is still in the works.

    Effects on the Automotive Sector

    The electric vehicle sector in China is continuing to grow, with 22.9 million cars delivered in 2024, representing a 5.5% increase from the previous year. The widespread acceptance of self-driving technology is likely to transform the global automotive landscape, with autonomous trucks predicted to save Chinese firms around 1.8 trillion yuan each year by 2030. The price of ADAS has dropped to about 10,000 yuan per unit, and Lidar sensors, critical for environmental mapping, have decreased from thousands of dollars to merely US$200 per unit over five years. As technology becomes less expensive, more car manufacturers are including self-driving features in their models.

    Competitors in the Market

    Although Tesla continues to lead in self-driving technology on a global scale, it faces significant hurdles in China. The company reached record sales in China by the end of 2024, but is dealing with intense competition from domestic EV manufacturers such as BYD. A worldwide price war in the EV market has also squeezed Tesla’s profit margins, with Q4 revenue not meeting forecasts. Tesla’s main obstacle in China is regulatory limitations. The Chinese government does not permit Tesla to send self-driving training videos overseas, and U.S. regulations restrict AI training activities in China. These challenges have hindered Tesla’s progress with its Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology in the nation.

    Ongoing Developments

    Despite these obstacles, Tesla is pushing forward with its self-driving initiatives in other regions. The company aims to introduce unsupervised autonomous driving in Austin, Texas, and various other U.S. cities by late 2025. Nevertheless, its prospects in China remain uncertain due to economic and political pressures. With self-driving technology becoming a norm in millions of vehicles across China, the nation is solidifying its role as a frontrunner in the future of autonomous transportation.

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