Tag: Tesla

  • Robotaxi Tests Shuttle Service with Dummy Steering, Tesla Launches Cybercab Merch

    Robotaxi Tests Shuttle Service with Dummy Steering, Tesla Launches Cybercab Merch

    Tesla is currently conducting tests for its Cybercab ride-share service at its Gigafactory in Texas, where mass production is expected to start in 2026, assuming Elon Musk can navigate the autonomous vehicle regulations effectively by that time.

    Fleet Launch Plans

    To begin, Tesla plans to utilize a fleet of its existing vehicles to provide a driverless shuttle service on the Cybercab platform for employees in Texas and California. This is part of the so-called unsupervised Full Self-Driving (FSD) phase, which requires demonstration that the self-driving technology is safer than human drivers. Elon Musk insists this will all happen within the next three months, aiming to roll out unsupervised FSD by year-end in select cities across these two states.

    Regulatory Challenges

    However, even this stage of the Robotaxi rollout will face significant regulatory hurdles, not to mention the challenges for a fully driverless Cybercab that lacks both steering wheels and pedals. It remains uncertain whether Tesla can meet its self-imposed timeline. Musk’s optimism might be linked to his new role leading a fresh Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which he claims will advance federal regulations for autonomous vehicles, benefiting all electric vehicle makers.

    Public Sentiment and Speculation

    Despite this, experts are doubtful about the likelihood of getting approval for any car without steering wheels or pedals on public roads in the near future. This is why a recent drone flight over Giga Texas that captured the Cybercab seemingly driving with what appeared to be a steering wheel generated so much excitement.

    Many hoped Tesla would include a steering wheel at launch to expedite regulatory approval. Others speculated that this could be the much-anticipated Model 2/Q, which was supposed to launch before the Cybercab, and would be built on the same platform.

    Reality Check

    In truth, the supposed steering wheel was probably just an optical illusion, like a shadow of the A-pillar cast on the tinted windshield or a seat belt draped over a passenger dummy. The Cybercab appeared to be dropping off passengers and moving away, which are tests Tesla must conduct for its planned employee shuttle service.

    Even if the object was indeed a steering wheel, it could have been an engineering control device, similar to those used by Tesla to navigate the Cybercab in settings like ramps or showrooms where it frequently appears. When asked how the Cybercab reached its spot at a recent Brussels auto expo, the Tesla team jokingly said “magic” with smiles, and then added, “if there’s a computer inside, anything is possible,” suggesting some manual control could be involved.

    Merchandise for Fans

    Regardless, it seems like the American public will have to wait quite a while before the Cybercab can provide ride-share services through Tesla’s dedicated platform on public streets. In the meantime, Tesla is rolling out special merchandise to keep its fans engaged until the launch.

    The Cybercab is now featured in Tesla’s apparel store, with a black T-shirt showcasing its logo and silhouette on the front, and the Tesla wordmark on the back. The Cybercab Tee is priced at $40 and is said to be inspired by the Cybercab launch event to complement its gold exterior.

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  • Tesla to Cut Insurance Costs for FSD with Automatic Reverse Feature

    Tesla to Cut Insurance Costs for FSD with Automatic Reverse Feature

    Elon Musk has made a commitment that Tesla will upgrade all HW3 computers in its older vehicles at no cost if they can’t run the new FSD 13 update in the promised unsupervised mode later this year. He has now mentioned a key step towards achieving that aim.

    Upcoming Features for Older Tesla Models

    Tesla cars equipped with the older Hardware 3.0 computers and cameras, which includes the majority of Tesla vehicles, will soon gain the ability to reverse into parking spots just like the HW4 models running FSD 13 already can. The FSD screen now even displays the reverse path, making the release of this feature just a matter of time.

    This reversing capability has been notably absent in the older Tesla models with HW3 computers. Elon humorously suggested that this situation must be quite stressful for the AI in his electric cars.

    Current Limitations and Future Improvements

    As it stands now, HW3 Teslas can utilize FSD to navigate and position themselves in front of a parking space, but the driver still needs to manually shift into reverse. This requirement adds to the FSD disengagement figures, and Tesla needs to enhance these stats for compliance reasons if it hopes to launch unsupervised FSD this year or the Robotaxi next year, as claimed.

    However, Tesla appears confident that it has mastered the complexities of autonomous driving. Recently, Elon Musk indicated that FSD will statistically be safer than human drivers within the next three months. While Musk is known for extending deadlines, Tesla is prepping for this possibility by considering reduced insurance rates for those who use FSD more frequently.

    Enhancements to Safety Score Feature

    A recent code decompile of Tesla’s iPhone app has revealed references to an update for the Safety Score feature. Currently, it only tracks the miles driven on FSD or Autopilot, but future updates will reportedly calculate these metrics in ratios and percentages.

    Tesla owners who allow FSD to handle a greater portion of their driving will likely receive a higher Safety Score, which could lead to lower insurance costs.

    At this time, these benefits would apply only to Tesla’s insurance, which is accessible directly through the app and available in a limited number of states. However, this may signal future changes if regulators become familiar with the data and validate Elon’s assertion that the FSD system will indeed be safer than human drivers.

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  • Tesla’s New Drive-In Diner Supercharger: Latest App Update

    Tesla’s New Drive-In Diner Supercharger: Latest App Update

    Tesla is working on a unique drive-in diner Supercharger, where electric vehicle owners can place orders for food and drinks while enjoying movies displayed on two large screens. Waiters will serve customers on roller skates as their cars recharge. This large venue located on Santa Monica Boulevard in Los Angeles, California, is almost finished, with Tesla currently seeking permits for HVAC and plumbing.

    New Features in the App

    Recently, observant users discovered hints about the upcoming diner in the latest Tesla app update 4.41.0. The update features a Tesla Diner user interface and an associated icon. Additionally, there are coding mentions such as ‘DinerHomeScreen,’ ‘profile_settings_diner_description,’ and ‘View menu & amenities,’ which suggest that the diner is in the pipeline.

    Opening Date Uncertain

    While these clues indicate that Tesla is making headway, the company has yet to announce an official opening date for the drive-in diner Supercharger. Furthermore, California’s wildfires could potentially hinder Tesla’s plans moving forward.

    Charging and Entertainment Schedule

    Currently, Tesla has set up the main entrance and several Supercharger stations. EV drivers will have access to charging around the clock, but the movie screens will only be available from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.

    Other Developments in the Works

    Moreover, additional insights from the code reveal that there might be an insurance discount linked to Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) feature. On a related note, buyers of the Cybertruck may be let down to learn that the Automatic Tonneau covers and AC outlets might not come standard on all models.

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  • 2025 Model Y Juniper US Release Date and Order Opening Soon

    2025 Model Y Juniper US Release Date and Order Opening Soon

    Tesla is reducing the prices of its Model Y vehicles in the US inventory, and this might be linked to the upcoming orders for the 2025 Juniper refresh in North America, which could start as early as this week. The launch of the Juniper in the US is expected to coincide with the launches in China and Europe, with the 2025 Model Y set to be released in March.

    Upcoming Preorder Timeline

    Insiders from the Austin Gigafactory, who accurately predicted the announcement week for the Model Y Juniper, have indicated that the preorder for North America will begin soon. Sources from Giga Texas, where the Model Y Juniper is set to be produced, suggest that Tesla will start taking orders “within ten days.” This points to potential release dates in the US being Friday, January 24, or Monday, January 27.

    Launch Details

    Instead of a formal announcement, Tesla simply made the ordering page available on its Chinese site on Friday, January 10. With the ten-day timeframe starting from January 18, US Model Y enthusiasts may see the Juniper launch by next Tuesday, with January 24 or the following Monday being likely dates for the new Model Y facelift’s debut in the US.

    While this isn’t the actual release, it signifies the opening of 2025 Model Y Juniper orders on the US site, along with pricing and EPA range estimates. If US preorders start shortly after the Chinese launch, it suggests that Tesla aims for a simultaneous release across China, Europe, and the US, as rumored. The Berlin Gigafactory has already begun mass production.

    No Delays Expected

    This simultaneous launch indicates Tesla is not planning to delay the 2025 Model Y release in the US, unlike the Model 3 Highland launch. The Model 3 refresh was available in China by October 2023 but only arrived in the US three months later, citing a shortage of Hardware 4.0 autonomous driving kits and the need for crash tests as reasons.

    Now that Tesla outfits all its new models with AI4 FSD hardware, the only possible delay for the Juniper release in the US might occur if Tesla introduces it with 4680 battery packs and cannot produce enough to meet the demand for both Cybertruck and Model Y Juniper orders.

    With Tesla reducing Model Y inventory prices by up to $4,120, the company seems to be clearing out stock ahead of the Model Y Juniper release, anticipated for March, similar to China, pending regulatory approvals and EPA range testing.

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  • Tesla Slashes Model Y Prices and Offers 5 Years Free Supercharging in Japan

    Tesla Slashes Model Y Prices and Offers 5 Years Free Supercharging in Japan

    Tesla is gearing up to launch the refreshed Model Y Juniper, not just in countries like China where it’s available for pre-order, but also worldwide.

    Promotional Efforts for Model Y

    The company has initiated a big promotional campaign to sell off existing Model Y stock before introducing the updated version in various locations including the US and Japan.

    Price Cuts in the US

    In the United States, the prices for inventory Model Y vehicles have been slashed by as much as $4,120 for the top-tier Performance model, with reductions ranging from $960 to $2,500 for other variants.

    There are several Long Range Model Y AWD cars available at a discount of $2,500, bringing their price down to $47,490 before applying the $7,500 federal tax credit. This also applies to options like multi-coat paint and 20-inch Induction Wheels. To put it in perspective, this particular configuration would cost $51,990 if ordered out of inventory.

    Performance Model Discounts

    The Model Y Performance version, which accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, has a starting price of $53,490 with the Quicksilver paint. However, if bought from inventory, the price drops to $47,370.

    Tesla has already begun selling the Juniper in China and has kicked off mass production in Europe, suggesting that an announcement regarding the 2025 Model Y pricing for the US is imminent.

    With the federal tax credit factored in, the base trim of the inventory Model Y can now be snagged for as low as $37,490, making it an attractive offer even for those waiting for the Juniper update in the US.

    Incentives in Japan

    In Japan, Tesla has introduced another incentive to lure in Model Y customers ahead of the Juniper facelift. Buyers of inventory vehicles will receive free Supercharging for five years, with some conditions:

    Customers who buy a new Model Y from stock can use Superchargers without charge for five years post-delivery. To qualify, new orders made after January 1, 2025, must be delivered by March 31, 2025. Those waiting for a vehicle ordered by December 31, 2024, won’t be eligible for this offer if they place a new order after January 1, 2025. This offer is tied to the Tesla account and isn’t transferable to other customers or vehicles. Additionally, used cars and those used for business (like taxis or delivery services) are not eligible. Idle fees incurred when a vehicle is left charging or during busy times also aren’t included in this benefit. Tesla reserves the right to modify or cancel this program at any time.

    Similar Conditions for Other Models

    These conditions mirror those that Tesla recently imposed on free lifetime Supercharging for orders of the Foundation Series Cybertruck or Model S in the US.

    It seems Tesla is reviving the free Supercharging promotions as a tactic to boost quarterly sales figures, extending it even to the Model Y in select markets. Unfortunately, unlike past years, these free Supercharging offers are not transferable to another person or vehicle.

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  • Tesla Offers Free Lifetime Supercharging with Cybertruck Purchase

    Tesla Offers Free Lifetime Supercharging with Cybertruck Purchase

    In the recent quarter, Tesla reopened the free lifetime Supercharging offer after keeping it inactive for a while. During that time, used Model S vehicles with this feature were sold for prices significantly higher than average compared to similar listings.

    Initial Offerings

    Initially, in Q3, Tesla provided free Supercharging and FSD for a short duration, applicable only to the Model 3, Model Y, Model S, and Model X. However, the Cybertruck, which has the biggest battery capacity apart from the Semi truck, was excluded from this offer.

    Resuming the Promotion

    After the three-month promotional period ended, Tesla reinstated the free lifetime Supercharging for the Model S in Q4, a feature that previous owners appreciated because it helped maintain their car’s value for a longer time. However, this new promo came with more restrictions, as it couldn’t be transferred to a new owner or vehicle.

    These limitations remained when Tesla started a new free Supercharging for life promotion last month, but this time it was only for the more expensive Cybertrucks that needed to be sold from their inventory when less costly non-Foundation trims began production.

    Extension of the Offer

    Although the free charging for Cybertrucks was expected to finish at the end of the year, Tesla has extended it for another month due to a surplus of unsold Foundation Series Cybertrucks. Sadly, the offer is non-transferable again, as stated by Tesla. Additionally, Cybertruck owners must still pay congestion charges or idle fees at Superchargers:

    Customers who buy a new Cybertruck Foundation Series will get free Supercharging for the time they own the vehicle. Orders must be made on or after December 27, 2024, and be delivered by January 31, 2025. This offer is linked to your Tesla Account and cannot be moved to a different vehicle, person, or order, even if you transfer ownership. Used vehicles, business orders, and those used for commercial purposes like rideshare or delivery are not eligible. Supercharger fees, like idle and congestion fees, still apply when necessary. Orders do not qualify for the Powershare voucher. Tesla can remove the free Supercharging if there are excessive charges or unpaid fees. This promotion may change or end at any time.

    Currently, Tesla is also promoting dual-motor and Cyberbeast inventory, having reduced the price of non-Foundation Series Cybertrucks by over two grand for some demo models. However, this price reduction only applies to units made last year, since the 2025 Cybertruck models now qualify for the full federal tax credit of $7,500. Thus, it’s better to order a dual-motor non-Foundation Series Cybertruck and wait a little for delivery rather than grabbing one from the inventory immediately.

    Evaluating the Foundation Cybertrucks

    For the Foundation Cybertrucks still in stock, the situation is more intricate as they come with various options like FSD and accessories that justify the $20,000 price gap, plus the free lifetime Supercharging that could save significant money over the electric truck’s lifespan, which features a large 123 kWH 4680 battery pack.

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  • Tesla Launches Feature-Rich Software Update for Lunar New Year

    Tesla Launches Feature-Rich Software Update for Lunar New Year

    Tesla has likely delivered the final update for 2024 in China. The version 2024.45.32 includes a range of features, particularly improvements to navigation.

    New Routing Options

    With this software update, drivers can now choose between various routing options. The “Fastest Time” mode will still be the default choice, while the “Least Congestion” option focuses on steering clear of traffic, even if it takes a bit longer. The “Prefer Highways” setting will route the vehicle via more expressways, and “Lowest Tolls” will prioritize paths that incur the least toll fees.

    Enhanced Navigation Features

    Another significant addition is the service that notifies drivers as they near a highway service area. An on-screen alert will show nearby restaurants, stores, and public charging stations. This feature can be disabled in the settings if desired.

    Moreover, Smart Summons is a notable new navigation feature. It enables Teslas with Enhanced Autopilot (EAP) or Full Self-Driving (FSD) to autonomously approach their owners in parking areas upon request via the mobile app. This capability has already been rolled out in the US, Europe, and the Middle East.

    Holiday Features and Gaming

    In celebration of the Chinese Lunar New Year, Tesla has included several holiday-themed features. A collaboration with Tencent brings three exclusive games to China: Happy Landlord, Happy Mahjong, and Throw Eggs.

    Supercharger Enhancements

    A key addition is the Supercharger Bollards. Some Tesla Supercharger stations in China now have locking mechanisms or bollards that prevent non-Tesla vehicles from occupying charging spots. Previously, owners managed these bollards through the app, but this update allows for easier control directly from the car. The buttons to unlock the bollards appear automatically when a Tesla arrives at a charging station.

    Most of the features in this update are unique to China, and there is currently no information regarding when, or if, Tesla users elsewhere will receive these enhancements.

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  • 2025 Model Y Juniper Glacial Blue Photos Show No Multi-Coat Paint

    2025 Model Y Juniper Glacial Blue Photos Show No Multi-Coat Paint

    Tesla has introduced its refreshed Model Y Juniper with a limited availability, featuring a pure Black color option. However, they have introduced a new color called Glacial Blue, which adds some variety to the lineup.

    New Color Option

    The Glacial Blue shade bears some resemblance to the intricate multi-coat Quicksilver color but is noticeably lighter and has a blueish tint unlike any other blue options previously offered by Tesla for its electric vehicles.

    Paint Quality Concerns

    It remains uncertain whether the Glacial Blue for the Model Y Juniper is a multi-coat paint. Initial images captured in China, under bright winter sunlight, suggest that it might not be. The color lacks the typical “metallic and dark undertones” found in Tesla’s Quicksilver and Midnight Cherry Red multi-coat options that originate from their advanced paint facility in Giga Berlin. In reality, the Glacial Blue appears somewhat flat.

    Promotions and Pricing

    In Australia, Tesla is running a promotion that allows buyers to choose any Model Y Juniper color for free, including the new Glacial Blue. However, in China and various regions in the Asia-Pacific, where the Juniper version is available for preorder, this fresh color comes with an additional cost.

    As is customary, the only complimentary option in Tesla China is the Stealth Gray, also known as “Starry” Gray. All other colors, including the Pearl White multi-coat, cost an extra $1,100. The Glacial Blue color for the Model Y Juniper shares the same price point, while the Quicksilver and “Flame Red” multi-coat options are 50% more expensive.

    Market Demand

    This suggests that the Glacial Blue color may not have the dynamic effects typical of multi-coat paints, such as shimmer or color changes depending on light angles. This is evident from the initial real-world photos of the Model Y in Glacial Blue. Nevertheless, a new color is still appealing, and on the launch day alone, Tesla received 50,000 orders for the Model Y Juniper in China, even though it won’t be released until March.

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  • Tesla Model Y Juniper Returns to the US Market Again

    Tesla Model Y Juniper Returns to the US Market Again

    Tesla has introduced the eagerly awaited Model Y “Juniper” in China. Although the company hasn’t started accepting orders locally, recent sightings of a prototype suggest that it might be available soon.

    Exciting Prototype Sightings

    A user on X, known as @Teslaconomics, shared a video showcasing a covered Model Y “Juniper.” This vehicle was seen in Santa Clara, California, where both the front and rear bumpers were wrapped. Given that Tesla’s engineering headquarters is nearby, it makes sense that the new Model Y would be undergoing testing in this area.

    Ongoing Concealment

    Observers in the Bay Area noted some Model Ys with their front and rear parts hidden as late as 2024. It’s quite curious that Tesla still covers the prototypes, even though the updated version is set to debut in China, with deliveries expected by March 2025.

    Global Availability Still Uncertain

    Tesla has yet to announce when the Model Y “Juniper” will be ready for sale in the United States or other parts of the world. If the company’s release strategy for the Model 3 “Highland” is any indication, U.S. customers might only have to wait a few months before they can start placing orders.

    The update for the Tesla Model Y “Juniper” includes a new wide-view front camera, bringing the total camera count to eight. Some exterior modifications are also present, such as updated bumpers, light bars at both the front and back, along with aerodynamic enhancements. Inside, improvements feature a rear display screen akin to the one in the Model 3 “Highland,” ventilated seating, and better sound insulation for a more peaceful ride.

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  • Tesla Cuts Cybertruck Production Amid Model Y Staffing Shift

    Tesla Cuts Cybertruck Production Amid Model Y Staffing Shift

    It’s been clear for a while that interest in the Tesla Cybertruck is decreasing, as images of lots filled with unsold Cybertrucks and reports of quicker delivery times are spreading online. Now, there’s stronger proof that the Cybertruck isn’t performing as well in sales as Tesla had hoped.

    Survey Insights

    Sources close to the situation shared with Business Insider that a survey took place in December. It asked workers on the Cybertruck production line about their job preferences, while also informing them of upcoming transitions to the Model Y assembly line. Furthermore, two independent insiders indicated to Business Insider that Tesla plans to reduce the overall production of the Cybertruck.

    This survey was said to follow a notification to some Cybertruck assembly workers that they wouldn’t need to come to work in December 2024, effectively placing them on a temporary leave while production slowed. Thankfully, this break lasted only three days, but soon after, updates to the production schedule were made public.

    Production Challenges

    Insiders claim that not enough workers from the Cybertruck line chose to switch to the Model Y production line, leading to some being compelled to transfer when the new schedule took effect in January. Since production of the Cybertruck began in November 2023, there have been inconsistent reports regarding output, with battery supply chain issues being among the top challenges for the electric pickup.

    Tesla might also be focusing on ramping up production for the Model Y Juniper refresh, which is anticipated to be very popular upon its release later this year, considering the Model Y’s incredible success in the market.

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