mrlloyd.net's Tech Brief

Tesla & Electric Vehicles

Tesla, autonomy, charging and the wider EV market.

Electrek

Segway E3 Go electric scooter launches at $100 off, Bluetti 2,016Wh FridgePower station exclusive $854 in Member Sale, more

Segway's E3 Go Electric Scooter is now available for $549.99, a $100 discount from its MSRP. Bluetti's 2,016Wh FridgePower portable power station is on sale for $854.05, a $95 discount. Amazon is also offering the Hiboy MAX Pro Electric Scooter for $656.95, a $343 discount from its MSRP. Additionally, the Worx Nitro Leafjet 40V 620 CFM Cordless Electric Leaf Blower is available for $159.99, a discount from its usual price.

Why it matters: These deals offer significant discounts on popular products, making them more affordable for consumers.

Teslarati

SpaceX reports its first earnings today: here’s what to expect

SpaceX will report its first public earnings call since its IPO, with analysts expecting $12.72 billion in revenue and $0.13 EPS. The call will cover AI revenue, Starlink/Connectivity metrics, and Capex trajectory. The company will also discuss its compute capacity and Starship/Operational updates.

Why it matters: The earnings call will provide insight into SpaceX's financial performance and future plans, which can impact investor expectations and the stock price.

Electrek

Subaru is killing off gas cars and will only sell EVs in Europe

Subaru will stop selling internal combustion engine vehicles in Europe by the end of 2027, replacing them with electric vehicles. The transition will start with the discontinuation of the Outback at the end of the year. Subaru's European lineup will consist of three EVs from 2028.

Why it matters: This shift has implications for European consumers who will have fewer options for gas-powered vehicles from Subaru.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla Q3 Earnings Call: How to Listen & What to Expect

Tesla's Q3 2026 earnings call will be live-streamed on October 21, where investors can learn about the company's financials and future plans, including the Cybercab fleet and FSD. Tesla delivered 486,532 vehicles in Q3, beating analyst expectations. The company has released its Q3 2026 production and delivery numbers, showing a 1.3% increase in deliveries from Q2. Energy storage was a weak spot, with 13.7 GWh deployed, short of analyst expectations of 15.9 GWh.

Why it matters: The earnings call will provide insight into Tesla's future plans and financial performance, which can impact the company's stock price and investor decisions.

InsideEVs

How Much Range Do EVs Lose When Parked? (And How to Stop It)

Electric vehicles can lose up to 1% of their range per day when parked due to various factors such as battery drain, parasitic loads, and temperature fluctuations. This loss is often referred to as 'vampire drain'. The exact amount of range loss depends on the vehicle's make, model, and environmental conditions.

Why it matters: Understanding the factors contributing to range loss can help EV owners take steps to minimize it and optimize their vehicle's battery health.

Teslarati

SpaceX just launched its secret Starfall saucer again

SpaceX launched its Starfall reentry capsule on the Bandwagon-5 rideshare mission, flying as the final payload. The capsule was listed openly on the mission page, unlike its first flight. The Falcon 9 rocket carried 32 payloads, including a competitor's hardware, Varda Space Industries' W-Series 7 capsule.

Why it matters: This launch demonstrates SpaceX's ability to provide affordable access to microgravity environments for scientific research and testing.

Electrek

Volkswagen tells ID.4 owners to limit charging to 80% as part of a recall, or it will do it for them

Volkswagen has issued a recall for 22,524 ID.4 electric SUVs, model years 2023 to 2026, due to a potential fire risk. The company is advising owners to limit charging to 80% until a fix is available. The recall follows a field study and additional clarifications requested from the battery cell supplier, SK Battery America.

Why it matters: This recall affects the safety of owners and may impact their daily driving habits until a fix is available.

Electrek

Electrify America’s biggest charging station yet opens in theme park territory

Electrify America has opened its largest charging station yet in Orlando, Florida, with 24 DC fast chargers that can deliver up to 350 kW. The station is located at the Sand Lake Corners South shopping center and offers CCS plugs only. The location is near Interstate 4, Orlando International Airport, and popular tourist destinations.

Why it matters: This new charging station increases the availability of fast charging in a busy area, making it more convenient for electric vehicle owners to travel through the region.

Electrek

I bought a $199 Walmart e-bike, and what arrived shocked me

A reviewer purchased a $199 e-bike from Walmart, which had some assembly issues and was missing pedals, but still functioned surprisingly well in testing. The bike has a 350/500W rear hub motor, 576Wh battery, and a top speed of 20 mph. The reviewer notes several compromises, including a poor suspension fork and short seatpost.

Why it matters: This review provides insight into the quality and value of a low-cost e-bike option, which may be of interest to budget-conscious consumers considering purchasing an e-bike.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla Announces 2026 Shareholder Meeting for Dec. 3

Tesla has set the date for its 2026 Annual Shareholder Meeting on December 3 at Giga Texas in Austin. The meeting will feature a presentation and Q&A with Elon Musk and other executives. Shareholders can attend in person or virtually, but seating is limited and a random drawing will be held to select attendees.

Why it matters: The meeting will provide insight into Tesla's product roadmap and future plans, including updates on Cybercab, FSD, Optimus, and Semi.

Electrek

BYD launches new Seagull EV with 5-minute Flash Charging, starting under $10,000

BYD has launched its new Seagull EV in China, with a starting price of under $10,000. The second-generation Seagull features 5-minute Flash Charging, a larger interior, and a more powerful electric motor. The car is available in five variants, with prices ranging from $9,900 to $15,000.

Why it matters: The new Seagull EV is a more affordable option for Chinese consumers looking for an electric vehicle with fast charging capabilities.

InsideEVs

This Chinese EV Is Now Made In Europe. More Are Coming

Stellantis is manufacturing the Leapmotor B10 electric crossover in Spain, marking the first time a Chinese EV is produced in Europe. The B10 is a crossover model. A second Leapmotor model is set to be produced in Spain next year.

Why it matters: This development indicates growing international cooperation in the electric vehicle industry.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla Announces 2026 Shareholder Meeting for Dec. 3

Tesla has set the date for its 2026 Annual Shareholder Meeting, which will take place on December 3 at Giga Texas in Austin. The meeting will feature a presentation and Q&A with Elon Musk and other executives, and shareholders will vote on three proposals, including the re-election of Tesla's Class I Directors. Shareholders can attend in person or virtually, but seating is limited and will be selected through a random drawing.

Why it matters: The meeting will provide insight into Tesla's product roadmap and future plans, including updates on Cybercab, FSD, Optimus, and Semi.

Electrek

How electric school buses power 1,000 homes in California – and make money

A fleet of 74 electric school buses in California have been used to power around 1,000 homes over the past two years, using vehicle-to-grid (V2G) chargers built by Tellus Power. The buses store energy during the night and discharge it to the grid during peak hours, reducing stress on the grid. The project has had a 99.5% uptime and generated hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of electricity for the grid.

Why it matters: This project demonstrates the potential for electric vehicles to provide grid stability and generate revenue for fleet owners.

Electrek

Polestar and Oxford wired up drivers to measure how performance feels

Polestar and the University of Oxford conducted a pilot study to measure how performance feels to drivers using the Polestar 4 in two different versions. The study used eye trackers, heart-rate monitors, and psychological assessments to compare the 544 hp Dual motor with Performance pack to the 268 hp Rear motor version. The results showed the Performance pack car delivered 32% higher peak acceleration and required 15% less steering effort.

Why it matters: The study provides insight into the subjective experience of driving a high-performance electric vehicle and how it affects drivers' physiological and psychological responses.

InsideEVs

GM Is Closing Its Detroit EV Battery Plant

General Motors is closing its Detroit EV battery plant, which produced batteries for the Cadillac Celestiq and drive units for the Chevy Corvette E-Ray. The plant's closure is part of GM's restructuring efforts. The facility's future use has not been announced.

Why it matters: This closure may impact the production of these vehicles and potentially affect their availability in the market.

InsideEVs

The 2027 Lexus NX Plug-In Hybrid Gets A Bigger Battery And Fast Charging

Lexus has discontinued the gas-only version of the NX, leaving only the hybrid and plug-in hybrid options. The 2027 Lexus NX plug-in hybrid will feature a larger battery. The exact size of the battery increase is not specified.

Why it matters: This change may impact buyers who preferred the gas-only option, and those considering the plug-in hybrid may see improved range and charging times.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla FSD v14.3.13 and FSD v14.3 Lite Release Notes (Update 2026.38.5.10)

Tesla has released updates to its Full Self-Driving (FSD) system, including FSD v14.3.13 and FSD v14.3 Lite, with various improvements to the system's capabilities and features. The updates include enhanced image quality, improved emergency response, and adjustments to the Supercharger system. The FSD system also gains new features such as automatic collision evasion and improved parking capabilities.

Why it matters: These updates aim to improve the safety and reliability of Tesla's Full Self-Driving system, which is a key feature for the company's autonomous driving technology.

Teslarati

The Boring Company’s latest Tesla tunnel truck mod “fits like a glove”

The Boring Company has modified a Tesla-powered tunnel truck to carry freight containers underground. The truck, called the Prufrock Liner Truck, uses Tesla Model 3 batteries and drive units. The company has not announced when or where freight hauling will start.

Why it matters: This development could increase the efficiency of The Boring Company's tunneling operations by allowing them to transport both tunnel segments and freight containers with the same vehicle.

Electrek

Flying, flipping Tesla Roadster delivered on style, THESE EVs deliver on substance

Several electric vehicle manufacturers have released new models that offer flying, flipping, and self-driving capabilities, available for delivery. These vehicles are from Tesla's competitors, not Tesla itself. The Tesla Roadster 2.0 is still not available for delivery, despite a demo last week.

Why it matters: This news is significant for consumers looking for electric vehicles with advanced features.

Electrek

This new electric motorcycle with a giant hole in it wants to change how you ride

German electric motorcycle startup NOVUS has announced a new funding round and plans to expand into the US in 2027. The NOVUS One, a unique electric motorcycle with a large carbon fiber monocoque frame, is already in series production and available in Europe. The bike features a lightweight design, smartphone integration, and over-the-air updates.

Why it matters: The NOVUS One's design and features may appeal to those looking for a more approachable and urban electric motorcycle experience.

Electrek

Volkswagen opens orders for the lower-priced ID. Cross, starting at about $31,000

Volkswagen has opened orders for the ID. Cross, a lower-priced electric SUV with a 37 kWh battery, starting at about $31,000. The ID. Cross is based on the MEB+ platform and features a 114 hp electric motor. The vehicle has a WLTP range of up to 201 miles and can charge from 10% to 80% in about 23 minutes with DC fast charging.

Why it matters: The ID. Cross is a more affordable option for those considering an electric SUV, offering a balance of price and range.

InsideEVs

Here's What It's Like To Take Delivery Of A Rivian R2

A Rivian R2 owner shared their experience of taking delivery of the electric pickup truck, describing the process and their first impressions. The delivery process involved a tour of the vehicle, a review of the features, and a discussion of the warranty and maintenance. The owner was impressed with the truck's capabilities and features.

Why it matters: This article provides insight into the delivery experience of a highly anticipated electric vehicle.

Electrek

Arizona’s first NEVI fast chargers are finally open – here’s where

Arizona has opened its first three NEVI-funded DC fast-charging stations along I-10, I-19, and I-8, providing more charging options for EV drivers. The stations are in Tucson, Green Valley, and Wellton. The state had faced delays due to a Trump administration funding freeze and procurement issues.

Why it matters: The new charging stations will give EV drivers more options for long-distance travel in Arizona.

Electrek

BYD’s new high-tech 5-seat electric SUV revealed with 690 hp and dual 30″ screens

BYD has revealed its new third-generation Tang EV, a 5-seat electric SUV with a combined 690 horsepower and dual 30-inch screens. The new model will be available in two battery packs and will feature BYD's Blade Battery 2.0 and Flash Charging technology. The SUV will be available in two interior color schemes and will offer over 1,000 mm of second-row legroom.

Why it matters: The new Tang EV is a significant addition to BYD's electric SUV lineup, offering a more affordable alternative to its flagship full-size model.

InsideEVs

Used EVs Hit A Record Share Of Overall Used Car Sales In September

Used electric vehicle sales reached a record share of overall used car sales in September, according to data. This marks a significant increase in the adoption of plug-in models. The trend suggests that consumers are willing to purchase used EVs if the price is competitive.

Why it matters: This trend indicates that used EVs are becoming a viable option for car buyers, potentially increasing the overall adoption of electric vehicles.

InsideEVs

Your EV's Range Is Usually Set In Stone. Not This One

Nio has introduced a new feature allowing some of its electric vehicles to have their battery packs swapped out for new ones, increasing their range. This is not the first Nio model to offer swappable batteries. The feature is intended to extend the vehicle's range.

Why it matters: This feature could provide EV owners with more flexibility and potentially reduce battery degradation over time.

Electrek

EcoFlow Halloween Sale offers up to 57% spooky power station savings from $284, Monarc smart e-bikes from $1,399, more

EcoFlow is offering a Halloween sale with up to 57% discounts on power stations, including the DELTA 3 Ultra Plus 3,072Wh Power Station for $1,519.05. Monarc Bikes is offering new battery configurations for its e-bikes, starting at $1,399. Amazon is offering discounts on the EGO Cordless Electric 600 CFM Backpack Leaf Blower and the Hiboy S2 Max Electric Scooter.

Why it matters: These deals can help readers save money on eco-friendly products, including power stations, e-bikes, and outdoor gear.

Electrek

Toyota’s best-selling Corolla is going electric, and it will be made in China

Toyota will produce the Corolla EV in China starting in 2028, alongside hybrid and gas-powered versions. The new Corolla will use Toyota's 'multipathway' platform, supporting electric, hybrid, gas, and other powertrain options. The Corolla EV is expected to have a driving range of at least 250 miles and will be available in single- and dual-motor configurations.

Why it matters: This move marks a significant shift in Toyota's strategy to adapt to the growing demand for electric vehicles and increasing competition in the market.