Tag: Tesla

  • Tesla Model Y Juniper Deliveries Start in the US Before Release Event

    Tesla Model Y Juniper Deliveries Start in the US Before Release Event

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla began delivering the new Model Y Juniper refresh to US customers in early March, following earlier deliveries in China.
    2. A special invitation-only delivery event is planned for March 8 to celebrate the Model Y Juniper’s arrival in the US.
    3. Early adopters are sharing their delivery experiences and showcasing their new Model Y on online forums.
    4. The Model Y Juniper facelift features unique badging and includes the Full Self-Driving option, priced at $60,000.
    5. Tesla also announced delivery windows for the 2026 Model Y in Europe, with a launch event at Giga Berlin on March 7.


    Just as they said they would, Tesla began delivering the first preorders of the new Model Y Juniper refresh to customers at the start of March.

    When Tesla revealed the 2026 Model Y, they mentioned that the Juniper facelift would be available in the US around March. They also made the same statement regarding the launch in China, but they actually began delivering preorders there earlier, on February 26.

    Event to Celebrate the Release

    To mark the arrival of the Model Y Juniper refresh in the US, Tesla has planned a March 8 delivery event that is by invitation only. This event is designed to echo the Cybertruck launch, where Tesla gave keys to a mix of influencers and automotive journalists.

    Meanwhile, early adopters of the Model Y Juniper facelift in the US are sharing their delivery experiences on forums. They are posting their VIN numbers and showcasing the new model alongside other Tesla vehicles they own.

    Customer Experience Shared

    One customer shared their journey about ordering and receiving their vehicle. They placed a preorder for a 2026 Model Y Launch Series on January 23, and after several updates to the delivery timeframe—ranging from mid-February to early March—they finally received their Model Y on Sunday, March 2, at the Tesla store in Knoxville, Tennessee.

    They uploaded photos of the Model Y Juniper delivery from the store and from their garage, where the refresh is parked next to their 2024 Model 3 Performance. Now they have the latest versions of both of Tesla’s popular models.

    Exclusive Features and European Launch

    As Tesla is currently only offering the Launch Series edition in the US, the Tennessee owner’s new Model Y Juniper facelift features unique badging and comes with the Full Self-Driving option included in the $60,000 price tag before any tax credits.

    In addition to the US, Tesla has also begun delivery windows for the 2026 Model Y in Europe this week. They will host a launch event at Giga Berlin on Friday, March 7, just a day prior to the significant release celebrations in Fremont and Texas.

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  • Tesla Announces Model Y Juniper Refresh Event in Texas

    Tesla Announces Model Y Juniper Refresh Event in Texas

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla is hosting a launch event for the Model Y Juniper facelift in the US on March 8, inviting influencers and journalists to attend.
    2. The company is ramping up Model Y production across four factories globally, with signs of high inventory levels in Texas.
    3. The official release date for the Model Y Juniper in the US is March 8, during which Tesla will announce specifications and pricing.
    4. Tesla has revealed pricing for certain Model Y Juniper versions in Europe, where sales have dropped, but US pricing details are still pending.
    5. A new RWD version of the Model Y Juniper offers a range of 386 miles (WLTP), the longest for this model, though US version details remain unclear.


    Tesla has started sending out invites for a significant launch event for the Model Y Juniper facelift in the US, scheduled for Saturday, March 8.

    Influencer Engagement

    Similar to the Cybertruck launch, Tesla is inviting various influencers and automotive journalists to showcase their vehicles publicly. Attendees will also get a guided tour of the production lines for the Model Y Juniper refresh at Tesla’s Gigafactories located in Texas and California.

    Global Production Efforts

    Tesla is undertaking an unusual ramp-up of Model Y vehicle production across four factories worldwide. While the refresh has already been rolled out in China, it appears that the US and Europe are not far behind. Recently, a drone flight over Giga Texas revealed parking lots brimming with newly manufactured Model Y Juniper units, hinting at an upcoming release, and the recent invitations only add to this speculation.

    Release Date and Pricing Information

    The official release date for the Model Y Juniper in the US is set for March 8. Although the launch event is exclusive, Tesla is expected to hold a keynote during the handoff ceremony to announce the official specifications and price range. This event may also be when Tesla updates its website with the new Model Y Juniper prices, as it has only listed a $60,000 Launch Series edition for preorder thus far. In Europe, where Tesla’s sales have dropped significantly this year, prices for the most affordable 2026 Model Y Juniper RWD and the non-Launch Series AWD variant have already been revealed.

    Notable Features

    In that region, Tesla also offers a special RWD version boasting a remarkable range of 386 miles (WLTP), making it the longest-range Model Y to date. It remains uncertain which Juniper versions will be available in the US and what types of batteries they will use.

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  • Tesla Slashes Model Y Prices by Over $8,000 Before Refresh

    Tesla Slashes Model Y Prices by Over $8,000 Before Refresh

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Model Y Juniper refresh has launched in China, while sales of the Launch Series with extended warranty have ceased there.
    2. In the US, the 2026 Model Y facelift is still awaited and currently available only as a costly Launch Series preorder edition priced nearly at $60,000.
    3. Tesla has reduced Model Y prices by up to $8,400 in the US, making the Model Y RWD available for as low as $33,890.
    4. Discounts on higher-end AWD versions are significant, with deals like a 2025 Model Y Long Range AWD available for $36,170, including several premium features.
    5. The launch of the Juniper refresh in the US may happen soon, with current discounts on older models making them attractive options for buyers not needing the latest features.


    The Model Y Juniper refresh made its debut in China this week, but Tesla has also ceased sales of the Launch Series with extended warranty there.

    US Availability and Pricing

    In contrast, the 2026 Model Y facelift is still awaited in the United States. Currently, it’s only offered as a pricey Launch Series preorder edition, which comes in at nearly $60,000 when bundled with FSD and other features.

    Price Cuts and Deals

    The release of the Juniper refresh in the US seems imminent, especially since Tesla has reduced prices on the Model Y across its inventory to make room for the updated model. The price reduction can be as much as $8,400, which surpasses the federal tax credit offered as a point-of-sale incentive. As a result, you can snag a brand new Tesla Model Y RWD for just $33,890 right now.

    Tesla lists the price for a specific Model Y featuring dark 19-inch Gemini Wheels at $27,890, but this figure includes a questionable 5-year gas savings estimate that may not apply universally.

    Premium Options and Discounts

    The discounts are even more appealing for the higher-end AWD versions. For example, a 2025 Model Y Long Range AWD demo unit with 700 miles on the clock is available for an $8,320 discount. Priced at $36,170, this deal is particularly attractive as it includes the 7-seat Model Y configuration, Quicksilver paint, dark Gemini Wheels, and a Black and White Premium Interior—all extras that are now included in the cost.

    The high-end Model Y Performance variant, which won’t be available at launch with the Juniper refresh, is also a fantastic deal at $36,590. This demo unit, with only 200 miles on it, has an $8,400 discount and includes optional extras like a Deep Blue Metallic finish.

    Anticipation for the Juniper Refresh

    The extensive list of enticing Model Y deals suggests that the Juniper refresh could be launched as early as next week, as Tesla has set its sights on March. It’s unclear what price the non-Launch Series edition will command in the US, but it’s unlikely to match the current offers on the older Model Y, particularly the Performance variant, which might not arrive in its updated form until the holiday season.

    For individuals who aren’t overly concerned about having the latest design with updated features, this is an excellent chance to purchase a new or nearly new Model Y starting from the low thirties. After all, the new 2026 Model Y Juniper refresh still maintains the previous battery capacity and low-voltage architecture, along with the same relatively slow charging speeds from the aging 400V powertrain.

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  • Tesla Cybertruck Update: Wiper Blade Streaks Fixed with Wash Button

    Tesla Cybertruck Update: Wiper Blade Streaks Fixed with Wash Button

    Key Takeaways

    1. Cybertruck’s Gigawiper has been criticized for leaving streaks and poor visibility under tough weather conditions.
    2. Tesla acknowledges the issues and is releasing an Over-The-Air (OTA) update to improve wiper performance.
    3. The upcoming software update (2025.2.8) will allow for continuous windshield soaking with washer fluid, enhancing cleaning efficiency.
    4. The update will provide double the amount of washer fluid without reducing wiper speed, maintaining visibility at high speeds.
    5. Tesla tested the new solution in harsh winter conditions and encourages users to try the update before forming a judgment.


    Early doubts about the effectiveness and size of the Cybertruck Gigawiper, which features a single 62-inch wiper arm and blade, have been validated under tough weather conditions.

    Owners of the Cybertruck have started voicing their frustrations, noting that the wiper blade often leaves streaks on the windshield. In winter, it can only manage to clear some road salt or dirt, leaving the rest of the glass unclear and visibility poor.

    Tesla Responds

    Tesla has acknowledged these issues, with chief engineer Wes Morill stating that the team responsible for the wiper’s performance “listened, created this, tested, and rolled it out,” referring to an Over-The-Air (OTA) update that is on the way.

    Morill mentioned, “I’m just giving you all visibility,” while detailing the new 2025.2.8 software update for the Cybertruck. This update will allow for continuous “soaking” of the windshield with washer fluid as long as the driver keeps the button pressed for at least two wiping cycles.

    Improved Cleaning Solution

    As a result, the Cybertruck’s windshield will receive double the amount of fluid compared to before, enhancing its ability to break down road grime and salt so that the wiper can clean the surface more effectively without leaving streaks that impair visibility.

    Tesla chose not to reduce the speed of the wiper to increase fluid distribution, as that would have meant the windshield would be covered for a longer period, which could affect visibility at high speeds.

    While some people remain skeptical that pressing the wash button longer will indeed provide twice the fluid, Wes reassured that Tesla has trialed this fix in the harsh winters of Quebec and Alaska. Since it proved effective, he encouraged everyone to wait for the 2025.2.8 software update and give the new wiper system a try before forming an opinion.

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  • Suspect Arrested for Multiple Attacks on Tesla Stores

    Suspect Arrested for Multiple Attacks on Tesla Stores

    Key Takeaways

    1. Lucy Grace Nelson, 40, was arrested for vandalizing Tesla’s store in Loveland, Colorado.
    2. The incidents took place on January 29, February 2, and February 7.
    3. Nelson was found with equipment that could start fires and cause damage.
    4. She has posted a $100,000 bond and faces multiple felony charges, with potential federal charges pending.
    5. Tesla is actively pursuing legal action against vandals and implementing security measures like marked Supercharger cables.


    Tesla is still dealing with vandalism at its locations, but it appears that law enforcement is finally closing in on a suspect. The Loveland Police Department has reported the arrest of the person believed to be behind four separate attacks on Tesla’s store in Colorado.

    Arrest Details

    As stated by Police Chief Tim Doran, 40-year-old Lucy Grace Nelson, also known as Justin Thomas Nelson, was taken into custody on February 24th. This was in relation to incidents that occurred at Tesla’s Loveland store on dates including January 29th, February 2nd, and February 7th. The suspect was caught at the store, where they had equipment that could potentially start fires and cause damage.

    Legal Proceedings

    After being arrested, Nelson was taken to Larimer County Jail, but has since managed to post a bond set at $100,000. They face several charges, which include attempts to commit class 3 and class 4 felonies. There might also be federal charges coming, as the Loveland Police are collaborating with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.

    Tesla’s Response

    Tesla has committed to pursuing legal actions against those who attack its properties. In an effort to combat vandalism and theft, the company is marking its Supercharger cables and using ink that can explode. The automaker has seen a rise in vandalism across the US, some of which is thought to be connected to CEO Elon Musk’s involvement with the current government.

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  • Tesla Seeks Ride-Hailing License for Human Drivers

    Tesla Seeks Ride-Hailing License for Human Drivers

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla has applied for a ride-hailing permit in California to enhance its robotaxi service.
    2. The permit allows Tesla to compete directly with companies like Waymo and Uber.
    3. Discussions with state officials indicate potential involvement of human drivers alongside autonomous vehicles.
    4. Waymo currently offers a driverless ride-hailing service in multiple locations, while Tesla has not yet applied for a driverless vehicle permit.
    5. Tesla plans to launch its Unsupervised Full Self-Driving service in Austin, Texas, with hopes of expanding to other US cities by the end of the year.


    Tesla seems to be making strides with its robotaxi service as it applies for a ride-hailing permit in California. Reports from Bloomberg indicate that the company submitted a request for a “transportation charter-party carrier permit” to the California Public Utilities Commission in late 2024.

    Competing with Major Players

    This permit will enable Tesla to go head-to-head with companies like Waymo and Uber. Notably, Uber’s CEO mentioned that Tesla chose to develop its ride-hailing service independently rather than collaborating with Uber. Discussions between Tesla and state officials have included topics such as driver’s licenses and drug testing, hinting that there might still be human drivers in the mix. The type of permit Tesla is seeking indicates that the company will own the vehicles rather than relying on individual drivers.

    Waymo’s Driverless Service

    Waymo currently provides a driverless ride-hailing service in various areas, including Metro Phoenix, the San Francisco Bay Area, and Los Angeles. However, a spokesperson from Tesla informed Bloomberg that the company has neither applied for nor received a permit for testing or deploying driverless vehicles.

    Future Plans for Tesla

    Nevertheless, Tesla has announced plans to introduce its Unsupervised Full Self-Driving (FSD) in Austin, Texas, in June, featuring the Cybercab as a paid option. While Tesla hasn’t secured regulatory approval in any location, CEO Elon Musk has expressed intentions to roll out the autonomous ride-hailing service in multiple cities across the US before the year concludes.

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  • Tesla Launches FSD in China: Local Data Limits Performance

    Tesla Launches FSD in China: Local Data Limits Performance

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla is rolling out its Full Self-Driving (FSD) service in China through an over-the-air update, but it faces limitations due to data restrictions.
    2. The FSD in China is not as advanced as the U.S. version and is marketed as an enhancement to the existing Navigate on Autopilot feature.
    3. Tesla has rebranded the FSD option to “automatic assisted driving kit” and is now priced at $8,000, similar to Level 2 driver-assist systems offered by competitors like BYD for free.
    4. Unique challenges in launching FSD in China include data export restrictions from the U.S. and regulations preventing the transfer of training videos outside China.
    5. Tesla plans to refine the FSD system by using locally gathered data and real-life driving scenarios once U.S. engineers implement a tailored algorithm for China.


    Tesla is rolling out its Full Self-Driving (FSD) service through an over-the-air software update for owners in China who have purchased the feature but couldn’t use it until now.

    FSD Limitations in China

    However, the FSD functionalities in China do not meet expectations, as Tesla encounters restrictions on the data it can utilize for training its algorithms. Currently, the service is not even close to the FSD version 13 that has been launched in the United States. In China, Tesla promotes it as an enhancement to the Navigate on Autopilot feature, which can handle lane changes, navigate ramps, read traffic signals, and make turns in urban areas. Additionally, the cabin camera is now being utilized to monitor if the driver is paying attention to the road.

    New Naming and Pricing Strategy

    Tesla has rebranded the $8,000 option from FSD to “automatic assisted driving kit,” as it primarily serves as a Level 2 driver-assist system similar to what BYD provides for free in its vehicles. This month, Tesla reportedly sent a group of U.S. engineers to implement a China-specific algorithm that incorporates raw data from test Teslas operating in the country since last year, along with various driving videos sourced from the Internet.

    Challenges Ahead

    According to Elon Musk, the launch of FSD in China has been encountering unique challenges. The U.S. government does not permit the export of raw driving data, while Chinese regulations prevent the transfer of training videos outside the country. Musk stated, “We are in a bit of a bind there. So like, bit of a quandary.” To overcome these obstacles, Tesla is analyzing publicly available videos of Chinese streets to enhance their training data and using a simulator for specific scenarios, particularly focusing on the complex bus lanes in China. These lanes have strict regulations, and entering them at the wrong time can lead to instant penalties.

    Future Prospects

    Tesla seems to be gaining confidence in launching at least basic FSD features in China. Once the U.S. engineers deploy the algorithm, the local team will take over, gathering specific data and real-life situations from local roads to refine the system progressively.

    It is still uncertain how many Tesla owners in China will opt to pay the full price for a partially functional FSD, especially when local EV manufacturers like BYD are offering better autonomous features at no extra cost.

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  • Tesla to Prosecute Vandals Targeting Supercharger Stations

    Tesla to Prosecute Vandals Targeting Supercharger Stations

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla’s Supercharger stations are facing vandalism and theft, with incidents involving damaged charging cables and graffiti.
    2. The company is taking legal action against vandals and has confirmed they will pursue charges for any such incidents.
    3. Tesla responded quickly to recent vandalism, including graffiti that could harm the company’s image.
    4. To prevent future vandalism, Tesla is marking cables and using special ink that can explode to aid in identifying offenders.
    5. Elon Musk’s role in government initiatives is controversial, impacting his public image alongside Tesla’s brand.


    Tesla’s Supercharger stations are becoming a target for vandals, who are damaging and stealing items like charging cables. The company has decided to take action and will pursue legal charges against those responsible.

    Response to Vandalism

    Tesla reacted on X to a recent incident of vandalism, where user @SnazzyLabs showed photos of a Supercharger that had been defaced with the word “NAZI” and the Swastika. In their post, @SnazzyLabs expressed concern that such actions could hurt Tesla’s image, possibly implicating Elon Musk in the damage to the brand.

    Immediate Action

    The official Tesla charging account, @TeslaCharging, responded promptly, stating that they would remove the graffiti right away. Another user, @lennylegend86, suggested that a security camera might have recorded the person responsible. TeslaCharging confirmed that they would indeed pursue charges for vandalism at the Supercharger locations.

    Legal Measures and Innovations

    To tackle the issues of vandalism and theft at Superchargers, Tesla is implementing legal measures. They are also marking cables and using special ink that can explode to make it simpler to catch those who vandalize their property.

    Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, continues to divide opinion with his active role in the US government. He oversees the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which works on reducing government spending and boosting productivity among federal workers. His initiatives have led to the closure of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the job loss of many civil servants.

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  • Tesla’s In-House Robotaxi Platform Revealed by Uber CEO

    Tesla’s In-House Robotaxi Platform Revealed by Uber CEO

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla is seen as a direct competitor to Uber, as they declined collaboration on the robotaxi service.
    2. Uber’s CEO, Dara Khosrowshahi, remains open to future partnerships despite Tesla’s decision to develop ride-hailing services independently.
    3. Khosrowshahi highlighted the potential benefits of a partnership with Tesla to stabilize demand in the autonomous vehicle market.
    4. Tesla is actively advancing in the ride-hailing sector, including testing a mobile app for booking rides.
    5. Tesla plans to launch the two-seat Cybercab in October 2024, which will operate with Unsupervised Full Self-Driving technology.


    Uber’s CEO Dara Khosrowshahi has disclosed that Tesla will be a direct rival to his company, as Tesla declined an offer for collaboration on its forthcoming robotaxi service. According to a report by Fortune, both Khosrowshahi and Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk had several talks, but Musk firmly stated that the ride-hailing service would be developed entirely in-house.

    Competing Head-to-Head

    Khosrowshahi mentioned, “I’ve had discussions with him at this point. They want to build it alone, so in a way, in Austin, we and Waymo will be going against Tesla when they launch… Life is long, but we would love to partner with them.” This indicates that despite the competition, Khosrowshahi remains open to future collaboration.

    Strategic Partnership Appeal

    Khosrowshahi emphasized the advantages of a possible partnership with Tesla at the time of launch. He noted that Uber could help ensure a steady demand for newcomers in the autonomous vehicle (AV) market, which can often see fluctuating interest.

    Tesla’s Ride-Hailing Advancements

    Tesla has been advancing in the ride-hailing sector. They revealed the mobile app for booking rides during an investor call last year. Currently, the company is testing the service with its staff in California and Texas, following the introduction of the two-seat Cybercab, which lacks a steering wheel, in October 2024. This self-driving vehicle will be utilized to initiate Unsupervised Full Self-Driving (FSD) in June.

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  • Elon Musk Dismisses Nissan Factory Investment Rumors

    Elon Musk Dismisses Nissan Factory Investment Rumors

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nissan is seeking investors after unsuccessful merger talks with Honda.
    2. Nissan plans to present a proposal to Tesla for potential investment or collaboration.
    3. Elon Musk believes that Tesla’s own manufacturing facilities are superior and may not benefit from investing in Nissan’s plants.
    4. Musk emphasizes the innovative production lines at Tesla’s factories, particularly the unprecedented Cybercab line.
    5. Nissan’s U.S. assembly plants have a capacity of one million vehicles but are currently producing only 500,000 units.


    Nissan is currently seeking investors after its merger discussions with Honda, another Japanese automobile manufacturer, did not succeed. Recent news suggests that Nissan is looking to engage Tesla, and CEO Elon Musk has shared his thoughts on why investing in Nissan’s facilities might not be the best move for his company.

    Nissan’s Proposal to Tesla

    A report from Fortune indicates that Nissan, with support from major industry figures and politicians in Japan, plans to present Tesla with a proposal. This has led to rumors that Tesla could take over Nissan’s manufacturing plants in the United States. However, in response to a post on X that highlighted the article, Musk remarked, “the Tesla factory is the product.” He emphasized that the production line for the Cybercab is unprecedented in the automotive sector.

    Musk’s Factory Insights

    Musk frequently highlights the advancements in his manufacturing facilities. He has stated that Giga Shanghai was built on the enhancements made in the Fremont factory, and Giga Berlin learned from the experiences of the Chinese plant. It’s important to note that upgrading an existing production site to meet Musk’s high standards can be more difficult than constructing a new facility from scratch.

    Nissan’s Production Capacity

    Nissan operates two assembly plants in the United States, with a total output capability of one million vehicles; however, they are only managing to produce around 500,000 units.

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