Tech Brief

Tesla & Electric Vehicles

Tesla, autonomy, charging and the wider EV market.

Not a Tesla App

How Tesla Improved Automatic Navigation in Update 2026.26

Tesla's Automatic Navigation system has been improved in the 2026.26 software update, allowing it to better predict destinations based on habits and routines. The system now considers time of day, day of the week, and location to suggest routes. The update also includes a new interface for displaying suggested destinations.

Why it matters: This update improves the user experience by providing more accurate and personalized navigation suggestions.

Electrek

Toyota’s new electric SUVs are catching on, with nearly 5,000 sold in August

Toyota led US new EV sales growth in August with 4,964 units sold, up 35% from July, and its electric SUVs accounted for nearly 5,000 sales. The average transaction price for a new EV fell to $54,754 in August, down 1.3% from July and 2.8% from the year prior. The price gap between EVs and gas cars narrowed to $4,847, or 9.7%.

Why it matters: The narrowing price gap between EVs and gas cars may make electric vehicles more appealing to consumers.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla's Upcoming Full Self-Driving Features

Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) software is set to receive several new features, including natural language processing, pothole avoidance, and personalized parking habits. The updates will allow drivers to interact with their vehicles more naturally and make the driving experience more comfortable. The company is also working on a major upgrade to the FSD system, FSD v15, which will increase the neural network's parameters by a factor of ten.

Why it matters: These updates will improve the overall driving experience and make Tesla's FSD system more user-friendly and effective.

InsideEVs

What If We're Thinking About EV Charging All Wrong?

A podcast episode discussed various electric vehicle topics, including curbside charging, the Tesla Roadster 2.0, the Mercedes GLC, and the Ford Fathom.

Why it matters: This podcast episode provides insights into the latest developments in the electric vehicle industry.

Electrek

Want to get off gas? Learn how at Drive Electric Month events across the US

Drive Electric Month continues with over 150 events across the US and Canada, offering opportunities for prospective EV buyers to learn from EV owners and network with others. Events will be held in most US states and will cover topics such as EV ownership and charging. The events are organized by local EV advocates and range from small meetups to large festivals.

Why it matters: This event provides a platform for people to learn about electric vehicles and their experiences from owners, which can be helpful for those considering purchasing an EV.

Electrek

Hyundai warns the US may be next in line for a wave of cheaper Chinese EVs

Hyundai's CEO warned that the US may be next in line for a wave of cheaper Chinese electric vehicles, citing the UK as an example where Chinese brands have taken over the market. Chinese automakers like BYD are already 30-40% cheaper than comparable auto brands in some markets. The US imposes a 100% tariff on EV imports from China, but President Trump has suggested allowing Chinese automakers to sell in the US if the vehicles are built in the US.

Why it matters: The entry of Chinese electric vehicles into the US market could have significant economic implications for American automakers.

Electrek

Anker SOLIX E10 system sale starts from exclusive $3,799 low, Heybike ALPHA mid-drive e-bike $1,099 low, EcoFlow, more

Anker's SOLIX E10 Whole-Home Backup System is on sale for $3,799 with a free metal pad and AC generator adapter, down from $5,799. The Heybike ALPHA All-Terrain Mid-Drive e-bike is also on sale for $1,099, down from $1,799. EcoFlow's 3,072Wh DELTA 3 Ultra Plus Power Station with a 500W modular solar panel is on sale for $1,899, down from $2,799.

Why it matters: These deals offer significant savings on home backup systems, e-bikes, and portable power stations, which can be useful for those looking to prepare for power outages or off-grid living.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla FSD Cuts Collisions by 40% in Australia and NZ

Tesla's Full Self-Driving (Supervised) software has been used in Australia and New Zealand for a year, resulting in a 40% reduction in collisions compared to manual driving. The software was launched in the region in September 2025 and has been used for 160 million kilometers of driving. The data shows a decrease in various safety events, including automatic emergency braking, harsh braking, and horn usage.

Why it matters: The data provides evidence of the safety benefits of Tesla's Full Self-Driving software, which can inform regulatory decisions and wider adoption of the technology.

InsideEVs

'Can't Be Done By One Company': This Startup Is Rallying A Team To Bring Solid-State Batteries To Life

Factorial, a startup, is working with multiple battery companies to develop solid-state batteries. The goal is to create a more efficient and safer alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries. The collaboration aims to overcome the technical challenges associated with solid-state batteries.

Why it matters: This collaboration could lead to the development of more efficient and safer batteries for electric vehicles.

Electrek

BMW begins iX3 deliveries early in the US as demand surges

BMW has begun delivering the iX3 electric SUV in the US earlier than expected, with some customers receiving their vehicles as early as September 16, 2026. The company has seen strong demand for the vehicle, with over 100,000 orders worldwide. The iX3 features a range of up to 434 miles and a 400 kW DC charging capacity.

Why it matters: The early delivery of the iX3 suggests that BMW's electric SUV is in high demand, which could be a positive sign for the company's electric vehicle sales.

Electrek

XPeng shops its self-driving tech to automakers — Tesla found no takers

XPeng is trying to license its self-driving and smart-cockpit systems to automakers, suppliers, and software firms, following a deal with Volkswagen. The company has already seen interest from potential customers, including foreign software developers and auto suppliers. XPeng's approach to self-driving technology includes a redundant safety layer that uses sensors in addition to cameras.

Why it matters: This development could be a significant opportunity for XPeng to generate high-margin revenue from its self-driving technology.

InsideEVs

Congress Advances Bill That Would Force Your EV To Have AM Radio

The US House of Representatives passed a bill requiring automakers to install AM radio in all vehicles sold in the US, including electric vehicles. The bill aims to ensure that all vehicles have a radio that can receive AM signals. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.

Why it matters: This bill could impact the future of vehicle design and the types of features included in new cars.

Electrek

Volkswagen’s EV van drove through 92 countries to set a new Guinness World Record

Volkswagen's ID. Buzz electric van completed a 99,767 km journey across 92 countries, setting a new Guinness World Record for the most countries visited in a continuous journey by an electric vehicle. The trip took 445 days and required over 300 charging cycles. The van's high-voltage battery retained 95.75% state of health after the journey.

Why it matters: This achievement demonstrates the feasibility of long-distance electric vehicle travel and highlights the benefits of electric vehicles in terms of reduced maintenance and lower emissions.

Electrek

144 Tesla Megapacks power Australia’s first 8-hour grid battery

Australia's first 8-hour grid battery, powered by 144 Tesla Megapacks, has been activated in New South Wales. The 50 MW / 400 MWh battery can discharge for eight hours, four times longer than typical Australian grid batteries. The battery is paired with a solar farm and is designed to store energy during the day and release it in the evening.

Why it matters: This battery demonstrates a new approach to grid storage that can help stabilize the grid and enable the transition to renewable energy.

InsideEVs

Same Battery Size, Different Range: VW ID. Polo Takes On Renault 5

A Volkswagen ID. Polo was tested on a European road trip with a highway-heavy route. The electric vehicle used less energy per mile compared to other electric vehicles. The ID. Polo also required less time to charge.

Why it matters: This comparison highlights the potential differences in real-world range and charging efficiency between electric vehicles with the same battery size.

Not a Tesla App

Introducing Our Personalized Tesla License Plate Generator [Update: Now Supports Canada!]

Tesla has launched a license plate visualization generator that allows users to browse and customize license plates for all 50 US states and 10 Canadian provinces, including EV plates for Ontario and Québec. The generator can be used to download images of plates with custom text or without. Users can also add their own text or use their actual plate number. The feature is available through the Paint Shop in the 2025 Holiday Update.

Why it matters: This feature allows Tesla owners to personalize their vehicle's appearance and make it stand out.

InsideEVs

The Mercedes GLC Electric Drove 393 Miles Mostly On Highways With One Quick Charge

The Mercedes GLC Electric vehicle completed a 393-mile trip with one quick charge, despite its calculated range being 273 miles. The trip consisted of mostly highway driving. The vehicle's range was extended by a single charging stop.

Why it matters: This demonstrates the potential for electric vehicles to cover long distances with minimal charging stops.

Electrek

DERA LIVES! House votes to fund Diesel Emissions Reduction Act through 2029

The US House of Representatives voted 343-79 to extend federal funding for the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) through 2029. The bill authorizes $100 million in annual funding for the program, which awards grants to reduce the costs of transitioning to cleaner vehicles. The program has helped take tens of thousands of polluting engines off the road and save over 500 million gallons of fuel.

Why it matters: This extension of funding will allow the program to continue reducing air pollution and promoting the adoption of cleaner vehicles in the US.

Teslarati

New drone video shows Tesla’s Optimus Factory reaching a turning point

Drone footage shows Tesla's Optimus factory at Giga Texas nearing completion, with the steel frame about five column grids away from the north perimeter beam, six months after construction began. Concrete is being poured on upper floors, and rebar is being laid for future pours. The factory is part of a 5.2 million square foot expansion of Giga Texas's North Campus.

Why it matters: This development suggests Tesla is on track to meet its 2027 production start target for the Optimus factory.

InsideEVs

EV Charging Just Got Easier On One Of The Fastest-Growing Networks In The U.S.

Red E Charge has introduced a new feature allowing customers to skip the app and leave their credit card at home for charging sessions. The setup process is still quick. This feature is available on one of the fastest-growing EV charging networks in the U.S.

Why it matters: This change simplifies the charging process for Red E Charge customers, making it more convenient to use the network.

InsideEVs

The Best Rivian R2 Colors Are Now Up For Grabs In The Configurator

Rivian has added two new exterior colors and a new interior option for the R2 electric SUV. The new colors are available for selection in the vehicle's configurator. The new interior option is a lighter shade.

Why it matters: This update gives customers more options when customizing their R2, allowing them to personalize their vehicle to their preferences.

Electrek

The Bronx will be breathing a little easier with new Volvo VNR Electric [update]

City Harvest, New York City's largest food rescue organization, acquired three zero-emission Volvo VNR Electric semi trucks to support food rescue and delivery operations across the city's five boroughs. The trucks will be equipped with battery-electric transport refrigeration units, reducing tailpipe emissions. The purchase was supported by a $10 million award from the New York Clean Transportation Prizes program.

Why it matters: This deployment demonstrates the potential for electric trucks to reduce emissions and improve air quality in urban areas.

InsideEVs

How Hankook Made Long-Lasting, Long-Range EV Tires

Hankook has developed a lineup of EV tires called iON, designed for electric vehicles. The tires are made to meet the specific demands of EVs. They are designed to be long-lasting and provide long range.

Why it matters: These tires can help extend the range and lifespan of electric vehicles.

InsideEVs

Porsche Is Working On Making Batteries From Its Own Recycled Materials

Porsche is collaborating with partners to develop a closed-loop recycling system for electric vehicle batteries. The system involves recycling end-of-life batteries to create new cathodes. This process aims to reduce waste and conserve resources.

Why it matters: This development could help reduce the environmental impact of electric vehicle production and promote sustainability in the automotive industry.

Electrek

Hyundai opens orders for its new electric van, starting at about $66,500

Hyundai has opened orders for its electric van, the Staria Electric, in Europe and other global markets, with a starting price of around $66,500. The van has a range of up to 267 miles and can charge from 10% to 80% in 20 minutes. The Staria Electric is available in three trim levels, including a base model and a range-topping Calligraphy 7-seater.

Why it matters: The Staria Electric's availability and pricing may be of interest to those considering a large electric vehicle for personal or commercial use.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla to Open New Collision Repair Center in Miami

Tesla is opening a new collision repair center in Miami, Florida, to handle heavy-duty bodywork and structural repairs. The 45,706-square-foot facility will have vehicle repair and service bays, a dedicated paint shop, and spare parts availability. The center will provide faster and more reliable collision repairs for local Tesla owners.

Why it matters: This new facility will reduce turnaround times for Tesla owners in South Florida who need collision repairs.

Electrek

BYD upgrades top-selling small electric SUV with more range, now starting at about $11,000

BYD has introduced an upgraded version of its small electric SUV, the Yuan Up, with increased range and a lower starting price. The new model is available in five trims, with a starting price of around $11,000. The upgraded SUV offers improved range and new features, including a larger 51.13 kWh battery pack.

Why it matters: The upgraded BYD Yuan Up is a significant update to a top-selling electric vehicle, offering improved range and features at a competitive price point.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla Shop Changes This Month: Wall Connector Price Increase, Discontinued Products and New Additions

Tesla updated its online store with new products, price changes, and discontinued items. The changes include new accessories for the Cybertruck, such as a lockable bed storage box and a tailgate utility track. The store also added new apparel and pet-themed items.

Why it matters: These updates provide Tesla owners with new options for customizing and accessorizing their vehicles.