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Tesla & Electric Vehicles

Tesla, autonomy, charging and the wider EV market.

Rivian limits point-to-point driving to invite-only testers under NDA

Rivian will introduce its point-to-point driving feature through an invitation-only program for US R1 Gen 2 and R2 owners with Autonomy+ subscription, starting in late 2026. The feature will be available to a limited number of owners who meet certain criteria, including an active paid subscription, heavy use of Autonomy features, and a clean safety record. Rivian will recheck eligibility every 30 days and can revoke membership at its discretion.

Why it matters: This development is significant for Rivian owners who have paid for the Autonomy+ subscription, as it will allow them to experience the next level of driver assistance technology before it becomes widely available.

Tesla Roadster Reveal Hints at 'Back to the Future' Tie-In

Tesla's next-generation Roadster will be revealed tonight at 7:55 p.m. CT, with hints suggesting a possible collaboration with DeLorean and time travel theme. Elon Musk has teased the event, calling it a 'candidate for greatest product demo of all time'. The event will be live-streamed on Tesla's official page.

Why it matters: The reveal may showcase new features and technologies in the Roadster, including flying capabilities and advanced downforce systems.

Ford’s Fathom EV pickup spotted again ahead of its upcoming debut

A Ford Fathom EV pickup prototype was spotted outside the company's World Headquarters in Dearborn, Michigan, ahead of its debut in early 2027. The Fathom will start at $28,350 for the standard-range version, with prices under $30,000 including delivery. The vehicle will feature a large touchscreen display, Apple Maps integration, and bidirectional charging capabilities.

Why it matters: The Fathom's pricing and features are significant for readers considering an electric pickup truck in the sub-$30,000 range.

Velotric Nomad 2 e-bike + FREE $550 extra battery, Bluetti 900Wh alternator charger bundle, Hiboy kids electric dirt bikes, more

Velotric is offering a free $550 extra battery with the Nomad 2 Off-Road e-bike for $1,999. Bluetti's Pioneer Na(Sodium) Power Station is on sale for $665, and can be bundled with an alternator charger for $854. Anker's eufyCam C37 Solar Security Cameras are bundled with a HomeBase 3 for $260. Hiboy's electric dirt bikes for kids are on sale starting at $300. Worx's 8A 2-in-1 chainsaw/pole saw combo tool is also on sale.

Why it matters: These deals offer discounts on various eco-friendly products, including e-bikes, power stations, and security cameras, which can be useful for readers looking to upgrade their homes or outdoor gear.

Tesla remote operators keep crashing its ‘Robotaxis,’ data shows

Tesla's remote operators have been involved in five crashes of its 'Robotaxis', all of which occurred when the remote operator took control of the vehicle. The crashes happened in August and were reported to the NHTSA. The incidents occurred in Dallas and Austin, Texas, and resulted in property damage only.

Why it matters: The crashes highlight the limitations of Tesla's remote operation system and the potential risks associated with human intervention in autonomous vehicles.

Elon Musk says Tesla’s Roadster demo could be a bang, quite literally

Elon Musk teased that Tesla's Roadster demo could be a 'banger' and hinted at the possibility of a literal explosion. The demo will be held tonight at 7:55 p.m. Central time. The event will cover pricing, specifications, and production targets for the new Roadster.

Why it matters: The event will provide insight into the capabilities and features of the new Roadster, which is expected to be a significant upgrade over the previous model.

BYD’s electric luxury GT will get a major update for Europe in 2027

BYD's luxury electric GT, Denza Z9, will receive an update in Europe in 2027, including an upgrade to its 'God's Eye' intelligent driving assistance system. The update, called City Navigation on Driving Assistant (CNOA), will enable the vehicle to navigate complex city driving. The update will be available via an over-the-air (OTA) software update.

Why it matters: This update will improve the vehicle's safety and convenience in urban driving scenarios.

Rivian Taps Tesla Cybercab Veteran to Lead R2 Assembly

Rivian has hired Jody Kerns, a former Tesla employee, to lead the assembly of its R2 platform. Kerns previously worked on Tesla's Cybercab production line at Giga Texas. Kerns will replace Alborz Monzavi, who left Rivian in September.

Why it matters: The hire could help Rivian maintain production ramp-up for its R2 electric SUV as it prepares to launch new trims and increase output.

BMW’s new i3 just drove 753 miles on a single charge

BMW's new i3 electric vehicle drove 753 miles on a single charge, setting a new record for the company. The vehicle's Gen6 batteries, which offer 20% higher energy density, enabled the long-distance drive. The test was conducted to showcase the capabilities of BMW's latest battery technology.

Why it matters: This achievement demonstrates the improved range and efficiency of BMW's new battery technology, which will be used in its upcoming Neue Klasse lineup.

Tesla confirms Autopilot/FSD was ‘engaged’ when car crossed a median and killed a man

A Tesla vehicle crossed a median on Route 55 in New Jersey, hit a tree, and struck an SUV head-on, killing the SUV's driver. The Tesla's driver-assist system, Autopilot or Full Self-Driving, was engaged at the time of the crash, according to Tesla's report to federal regulators. The report was redacted to conceal details about the crash and the system's behavior.

Why it matters: This incident highlights the importance of transparency in reporting on the performance of advanced driver-assist systems, particularly when they are involved in fatal crashes.

How federal money is pushing cops towards e-bikes

The Clinton Police Department and County Sheriff's Office received five all-terrain e-bikes funded by the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant. The e-bikes have speeds of up to 20 mph and a range of up to 50 miles. They are being used for patrols in areas inaccessible to larger vehicles.

Why it matters: This trend highlights the practicality of e-bikes as a cost-effective and efficient tool for law enforcement.

Tesla loses Cybercab assembly lead to Rivian R2 weeks after launch

Tesla's Senior Manager of Cybercab General Assembly, Jody Kerns, is leaving the company to join Rivian as Director of General Assembly for the R2. Kerns was responsible for final assembly of the Cybercab at Tesla's Gigafactory Texas. He will do the same job at Rivian, aiming to make the R2 the best electric SUV in the market.

Why it matters: This departure may impact Tesla's ability to meet federal safety standards and could affect the company's Robotaxi fleet.

Canadians Are Holding Out For Chinese EVs

According to a survey, 48% of Canadian new car buyers are interested in electric vehicles. However, nearly half of them are waiting for Chinese electric vehicle models to become available. This is despite the fact that many Chinese EVs are already available in Canada.

Why it matters: This trend may impact the sales of existing EV models from other manufacturers.

The Electric Porsche Cayenne Just Torched The V8-Powered Audi RS Q8

The Porsche Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid has outperformed the Audi RS Q8 in a drag race. The Cayenne achieved a 0-60 mph time of 3.6 seconds, while the RS Q8 took 3.8 seconds. The Cayenne also reached a top speed of 183 mph.

Why it matters: This comparison highlights the performance capabilities of electric vehicles in the luxury SUV segment.

Slate Auto opens first ever test drive and experience center in Chicago

Slate Auto, a Jeff Bezos-backed electric truck startup, opened its first experience center in Chicago, offering test drives and a look at its affordable electric vehicle. The center is located in a renovated Tesla store and features a showroom, garage, and retail space. Potential customers can experience the vehicle's features, including a solid door handle and quiet ride.

Why it matters: This development provides a new opportunity for Midwestern fleet buyers and automotive journalists to test and learn about Slate's electric truck.

Xtracycle Swoop ASM review: The nicest cargo e-bike I’ve tested… so far!

The Xtracycle Swoop ASM is a Class 3 electric cargo bike with a Shimano EP6 Cargo mid-drive motor and a 630Wh battery, capable of reaching 28 mph and offering up to 60 miles of range. The bike features Shimano's automatic electronic shifting system and a rear passenger carrier rated for 2+ riders. The Swoop ASM has a suspension fork, hydraulic disc brakes, and 2.4-inch tires.

Why it matters: The automatic shifting system and rear passenger carrier make the Xtracycle Swoop ASM a practical choice for families or individuals who need to transport multiple people or heavy loads.

Rivian Is Taking Its Battery Recycling Game To The Next Level

Rivian has implemented a closed-loop battery recycling system, where all materials are reused or recycled. The system includes manufacturing scrap and end-of-life batteries. This process aims to minimize waste and reduce environmental impact.

Why it matters: This approach can help reduce the environmental impact of EV battery production and disposal.

New Tesla Roadster Reveal: How To Watch The Livestream

Tesla is set to reveal the new Roadster, a highly anticipated electric sports car. The event will be livestreamed on the company's website. The previous Roadster generation was released in 2010.

Why it matters: The new Roadster is expected to showcase Tesla's latest advancements in electric vehicle technology.

Elon Musk breaks his silence on the Starlink impact to Ukraine drones

Elon Musk stated that the US military and president set the speed limit for Starshield, a government version of Starlink, not SpaceX. Ukrainian officials had complained that the limit disrupted drone missions. The issue has sparked a debate about the role of SpaceX and the US government in Ukraine's military operations.

Why it matters: This issue highlights the complexities of using commercial technology for military purposes and the potential limitations and trade-offs involved.

Xpeng Thinks It Can Outsell Ford In Europe

Xpeng aims to sell 500,000 cars in Europe, surpassing Ford's 2022 sales of 430,000. The goal is reportedly set for 2025. Xpeng's European sales have been growing rapidly.

Why it matters: This goal indicates Xpeng's aggressive expansion plans in the European market.

You Can Now Earn Money by Sharing Your Starlink Connection

SpaceX's Starlink is launching a program called Starlink for Communities, which allows users to earn money by sharing their internet connection with neighbors. To participate, users need to order a Starlink Kit, set it up in a location with high demand, and follow setup instructions. Users can pay for access with one of four passes: Hour, Day, Week, or Month.

Why it matters: This program could provide a new revenue stream for individuals and businesses with high internet demand in their area.

Apple and Schneider’s new smart thermostat could help cut your electric bill

Apple and Schneider Electric have co-developed a new smart thermostat that uses iPhone intelligence to adjust heating and cooling based on user presence and schedule. The thermostat, part of the Apple Home Collection, will be available in the US and Canada in early 2027. The device will also offer features such as energy-use insights and peak and off-peak rate information.

Why it matters: This smart thermostat could help users save money on their electric bills by shifting heating and cooling to cleaner, lower-cost periods.

Tesla Rolls Out FSD V14 Lite to Legacy Model S/X for First Time

Tesla has released FSD v14.3 Lite to legacy Model S and Model X vehicles with Intel processors, bringing improvements such as better handling of merges and pedestrians. The update is a distilled version of the main FSD v14 software, optimized for HW3's older computer. The update also includes Speed Profiles and an FSD streak counter, but excludes features like Arrival Options and Smart Summon.

Why it matters: This update provides legacy Model S and Model X owners with a more advanced FSD experience, but it's the last major FSD branch for HW3 vehicles.

Tesla opens the Q&A for its biggest earnings call yet

Tesla has opened its Q3 2026 earnings call Q&A portal, with investors until October 20 to submit and vote on questions. The call is set for October 21, with results to be posted after the market closes. The company has already reported 486,532 deliveries and 13.7 GWh of storage for the quarter.

Why it matters: The Q&A session will provide insight into Tesla's plans and performance in key areas such as Robotaxi, FSD, and Optimus.

Tesla Tinkerers Get CarPlay and AirPlay Running Natively [VIDEOS]

Two Tesla owners, Michał Gapiński and Maciej Wilczyński, have successfully implemented native Apple CarPlay and AirPlay on a Tesla screen using a custom environment enabled by @CoilShift. The setup does not require a Raspberry Pi or browser, and works with Siri and lossless audio. Videos show the features in action, including CarPlay and AirPlay interfaces, and RGB lighting reacting to music.

Why it matters: This achievement demonstrates that native CarPlay implementation on a Tesla is possible, and could potentially be a precursor to an official release from Tesla.

Revolution Wind is powering New England, and Trump is attacking it again

The Trump administration has asked a federal court to reconsider the approval for the Revolution Wind offshore wind farm in New England, citing concerns about the project's impact on ocean uses. The project has already installed 65 turbines and is currently powering the grid. The move is the third time the administration has challenged the project's approval.

Why it matters: The outcome of this case could impact the future of offshore wind energy in the region and the cost of electricity for ratepayers.

DeLorean may have a flying car in the air before Tesla does [video]

DeLorean is partnering with Airspeeder to compete in the Airspeeder racing series with an eVTOL vehicle, potentially beating Tesla to a flying car. The DeLorean-branded eVTOL will be a spec Airspeeder Mk3C chassis for the 2023 season, with a new design to be developed in collaboration with student engineering teams from UC Berkeley and Georgia Tech for the 2027-28 season. The partnership is seen as a publicity stunt, but the DeLorean name is generating attention.

Why it matters: This development highlights the growing interest in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technology and its potential applications in racing and transportation.

BMW’s new flagship i7 makes a great chauffeur vehicle [Images]

BMW has introduced the new i7 electric sedan, a flagship vehicle with a modern design and advanced technology features. The i7 features a 17.9-inch infotainment display, a 31.3-inch 8K screen for rear passengers, and a 113 kWh battery with up to 447 miles of WLTP range. BMW is promoting the i7 as a suitable chauffeur vehicle with a dedicated program in the UK.

Why it matters: The i7's features and BMW's Chauffeur Program may be of interest to professional chauffeurs and luxury transportation providers.