Tag: Tesla

February 21, 2025
Tesla Introduces Virtual Queuing After Supercharger Fight Video
Key Takeaways
1. Charging an electric vehicle (EV) can take a long time, leading to interactions and potential conflicts at public charging stations.
2. Tesla plans to test a virtual queuing system starting in Q2 2025 to manage access to chargers and reduce tensions among drivers.
3. The proposed queuing system will likely use a first-come, first-served method to organize charging access.
4. Tesla aims to increase network capacity by 20% year-over-year to help reduce congestion and disputes at charging locations.
5. It’s unclear how the new queuing system will work with EVs from other manufacturers, raising the potential for conflicts in city areas.
Charging an electric vehicle can take quite a bit of time, even when using the quickest chargers available. As a result, owners of EVs often find themselves having to engage with others at public charging stations, and sometimes this can lead to tense situations. Following the popularity of a video showing a conflict at a Supercharging location, Tesla has shared plans to test a virtual queuing system at selected sites starting in Q2 2025.
A New Approach to Charging
The proposed system is expected to manage the order in which drivers access the chargers, likely utilizing a first-come, first-served method. Although major confrontations are rare, the limited availability of parking and instances of queue-jumping can escalate tensions, making the experience of public charging less than enjoyable for drivers of electric vehicles.
Expansion Plans
According to Tesla, the company might implement the virtual queuing solution more broadly depending on user feedback. Additionally, they unveiled plans for a significant 20 percent increase in network capacity year-over-year to help ease congestion and minimize disputes.
Compatibility with Other Brands
Currently, it’s not clear how this new system will function with electric vehicles from other manufacturers. Tesla has been slowly allowing these brands to use their Superchargers, which raises the likelihood of conflicts between drivers, particularly in city environments.
Source:
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Tags: electric vehicles, Tesla, Virtual Queuing
February 20, 2025
Tesla Model Y Juniper Refresh Accessories: New Frunk Cooler Fit
Key Takeaways
1. The updated Model Y Juniper features a new frunk design with a drain plug for easy water management.
2. The frunk can be used as a cooler for tailgating or camping, enhancing convenience.
3. Tesla has introduced a portable frunk cooler, priced at $275, specifically designed for the new Model Y.
4. The cooler has dimensions of 29.8″ x 17.4″ x 11.5″ and offers a cooling capacity of 42 qt (40 L).
5. The cooler is compatible with previous Model Y frunks and is made from durable materials for effective insulation.
The recently updated Model Y Juniper has introduced a new frunk design at the front of the car, which now includes a drain plug for the very first time.
This enhancement makes it easier to use the frunk as a cooler for tailgating or camping, allowing for quick and easy drainage when ice melts, which can be a great convenience when you just have ice and no way to manage the water.
However, it’s important to mention that while this may be suitable for a casual party with friends, it isn’t the best option for transporting cold drinks in a more serious manner. Therefore, Tesla has also revealed a dedicated cooler designed specifically for the new Model Y.
Cooler Details
The new portable frunk cooler features the Tesla logo and is priced at $275. This item is part of a larger selection of new all-weather accessories created especially for the 2026 Model Y refresh.
Although 2026 Model Y owners can opt for various budget-friendly frunk coolers available on platforms like Amazon, the official Tesla version is designed to fit perfectly within its dimensions of 29.8″ x 17.4″ x 11.5″ (75.7cm x 44.2cm x 29.2cm), providing a useful cooling capacity of 42 qt (40 L).
Compatibility and Quality
Additionally, the new Juniper refresh cooler is compatible with the frunk of previous Model Y vehicles and is made from “durable, lightweight materials and high-quality insulation to keep perishables cold and ice frozen for days at a time,” according to Tesla’s claims.
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Tags: Model Y, portable frunk cooler, Tesla
February 19, 2025
Cybertruck Crash Test Shows Battery Pack Safety Features
Key Takeaways
1. The Tesla Cybertruck has a 5-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA, indicating strong passenger safety in frontal and side tests.
2. The Cybertruck is currently under investigation for a crash involving its Full Self-Driving feature, but passenger safety features remain unquestioned.
3. European authorities have not allowed the Cybertruck on public roads due to its sharp edges, which exceed safety regulations.
4. While crash tests showed good results for occupants, pedestrian safety evaluations for the Cybertruck are still uncertain.
5. Tesla is developing a more affordable rear-wheel drive (RWD) version of the Cybertruck, but it’s unclear if design changes will be made for compliance in Europe.
While Tesla’s Cybertruck, a massive 3-ton electric pickup made of stainless steel, has faced its share of controversies, one thing is clear: no one is questioning the safety of its passengers.
Accident Investigations
Recently, the Cybertruck was involved in a crash while using its Full Self-Driving (FSD) feature, which is currently under investigation by the NHTSA. Additionally, European authorities are not permitting it to be driven on public roads as usual due to its sharp edges. Still, there seems to be no doubt about the safety features inside the vehicle’s cabin.
Safety Ratings
The NHTSA, which is looking into Tesla’s self-driving-related accidents, has awarded the Cybertruck a commendable 5-star crash safety rating. However, this rating was only achieved in frontal and side crash tests, with the NHTSA estimating a low 12% chance of rollover. The images taken before and after the crash tests reveal that the Cybertruck’s frame and underbody, where the battery and drivetrain are located, have an impressive capability to absorb impact.
Future Considerations
While the crash dummies in Tesla’s electric truck performed exceptionally well during the safety tests, it is still uncertain how the Cybertruck will perform in pedestrian safety evaluations. The sharp edges of its stainless steel body exceed the allowed radius set by European regulators, which is one of the reasons Tesla has not yet launched it there. Elon Musk even mentioned in previous investor calls that modifications to the Cybertruck’s design will be needed for a European release.
Tesla is also working on a new, more affordable RWD version of the Cybertruck that is expected to launch this year. This model has already appeared in the IRS database as qualifying for tax credits. However, it remains unclear whether Tesla will make the necessary changes to sell it in Europe, where the NCAP safety tests include pedestrian safety evaluations.
Tags: Cybertruck, NHTSA, Tesla
February 18, 2025
Tesla Begins Mass Production of Model Y Juniper for Early Release
Key Takeaways
1. The Model Y Juniper facelift production has started, with deliveries expected to begin soon, possibly next week.
2. Initial customer deliveries in China are ahead of schedule, about a week earlier than Tesla’s original timeline.
3. The U.S. launch of the Model Y Juniper is expected to follow shortly after the Chinese release, with confirmed specs and pricing already announced.
4. The 2026 Model Y Juniper offers an EPA range of 327 miles, a 5% improvement over the previous model, achieved through better efficiency.
5. North American customers who reserved the Model Y Juniper may experience delayed delivery dates, with some pushed to next month due to ramp-up times at U.S. production facilities.
The upcoming Model Y Juniper facelift is set to be released sooner than Tesla had previously indicated. Mass production has already commenced, and deliveries are expected to begin “soon,” possibly as early as next week.
Early Production Update
Since the announcement of the Model Y Juniper, Tesla had mentioned March as the expected release month for both China and the United States. However, the Giga Shanghai team recently hinted that they have completed the pilot batch stage during a brief Chinese New Year break for upgrades and retooling. Now, proper mass production is underway, with deliveries to early customers about to commence.
Anticipated Customer Deliveries
Local reports suggest that the Model Y Juniper could be delivered as soon as next week, meaning that initial units will soon be in the hands of their new owners. This timeline is about a week ahead of Tesla’s originally announced delivery schedule, which is likely to lead to a surge of first-hand videos and reviews from excited customers.
U.S. Launch Expectations
Regarding the U.S. release of the 2026 Model Y Juniper, it is expected to follow closely behind the launch in China. Tesla announced the specs and pricing for the new Model Y just days after the information was shared in China. Additionally, Tesla has confirmed the official EPA range for the Model Y Juniper, which clears the way for an early U.S. release, depending on production readiness.
The facelifted 2026 Model Y boasts an impressive range of 327 miles on a single charge, which is a 5% improvement over the previous Model Y AWD, achieved through a more efficient drivetrain and improved aerodynamics rather than an increase in battery capacity.
Order Status for North American Customers
However, customers in North America who reserved the $60,000 Model Y Juniper and were initially given a February-March delivery timeframe are now seeing the release date pushed to next month. Tesla’s Giga Shanghai facility is its largest and most efficient production site, likely benefiting local customers, while those in the U.S. with new Model Y orders may have to wait an additional week or two for Giga Texas and Fremont to ramp up production of the Juniper facelift.
Source:
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Tags: Giga Shanghai, Model Y Juniper, Tesla
February 18, 2025
Live Demo of xAI’s Grok 3 as AI Integrates with Tesla Today
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla vehicles are becoming more advanced with the integration of xAI’s Grok 3, enhancing their AI capabilities beyond just being “computers on wheels.”
2. Grok 3 uses real-time data from the X social media platform to provide up-to-date information and news in its responses.
3. New features in Grok include self-correction to fix errors, reinforcement learning to reduce incorrect responses, and the use of synthetic datasets for faster training.
4. The introduction of a live-voice mode aims to improve Tesla’s voice command system and make interactions more natural and intuitive.
5. Grok will work closely with Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology, enhancing self-driving capabilities and enabling complex inquiries like weather updates.
Elon Musk has often said that his vehicles are basically computers on wheels. However, they are turning out to be even more sophisticated than just that. Soon, Tesla cars will be equipped with the latest version of xAI’s Grok, and there’s a live demonstration of this AI system scheduled for today.
Major Improvements with Grok 3
Grok 3 is set to bring major enhancements following xAI’s updates to its Large Language Model (LLM) training techniques. The AI now utilizes real-time data from posts on the X social media platform to formulate responses, allowing it to provide up-to-the-minute news.
New Features of Grok
Among the new features in Grok is self-correction, which allows it to identify and rectify its own errors. There’s also reinforcement learning, which employs rewards and penalties to minimize incorrect responses. Additionally, synthetic datasets or artificially created data will help speed up the training process.
Exciting Live-Voice Mode
One of the most notable upgrades is the introduction of live-voice mode, an aspect where Grok previously fell short compared to its competitors. This feature is crucial for integrating Grok within Tesla vehicles.
Grok is anticipated to improve the current voice command system in Tesla, with a demonstration possibly happening tonight. The AI model will closely connect with Full Self-Driving (FSD), allowing Grok to gather real-world data for self-driving capabilities. It should also facilitate more natural general knowledge inquiries, like asking about the weather or handling other complicated requests.
Other electric vehicle manufacturers are also integrating AI technology, such as the Chinese companies Geely and Voyah, which are working with DeepSeek.
Source:
Link
Tags: Full Self-Driving, Tesla, xAI Grok
February 17, 2025
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.
Source:
Link
Tags: FSD 13, Model Y Juniper, Tesla
February 16, 2025
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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Link
Tags: matrix headlights, Model Y, Tesla
February 15, 2025
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.
Source:
Link
Tags: cabin radar, Model Y, Tesla
February 14, 2025
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.
Source:
Link
Tags: EV Theft Prevention, Supercharger, Tesla
February 12, 2025
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.
Source:
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Tags: Megapack, Model Y, Tesla