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Tesla & Electric Vehicles

Tesla, autonomy, charging and the wider EV market.

Not a Tesla App

Did We Just Figure Out Tesla’s 'Unforgettable' Roadster Surprise?

Tesla's original Roadster reveal image may be hiding a cryptic message about the car's capabilities, suggesting it could drive upside down. The image shows the car's rear with a light bar and four rocket thrusters, which could be a hint at the car's ability to drive on an inverted track. This theory is supported by Tesla's patents for fan systems and active wings, which could be used to increase downforce and allow the car to drive on an inverted track.

Why it matters: This theory suggests that the new Roadster may have capabilities that go beyond traditional driving, which could be a game-changer for the automotive industry.

InsideEVs

You Won't Be Able To Buy A Rivian R2 With Lidar This Year After All

Rivian has announced that the R2, its new autonomy computer and lidar system, will not be available for purchase this year. The company still plans to launch the technology in 2023. The R2 is a key component of Rivian's autonomous driving capabilities.

Why it matters: This delay may impact customers who were expecting to purchase a Rivian vehicle with advanced autonomous features.

Electrek

BYD’s cheapest EV is getting bigger and fancier

BYD is releasing a second-generation Seagull electric vehicle with a larger design, more upscale features, and a more powerful electric motor. The new Seagull is 425mm longer than the current model and has a 150mm longer wheelbase. The vehicle features an immersive cockpit, power-adjustable front seats, and a larger center infotainment screen.

Why it matters: The updated Seagull is significant for budget-conscious buyers looking for a more spacious and feature-rich electric vehicle option.

Electrek

Monarc smart e-bikes get largest $838 FREE bundles, EcoFlow power station flash sale, Anker SOLIX E10 exclusive lows, Worx, more

Monarc Bikes is offering a limited-time deal on its Tracer Commuter and Marker All-Terrain e-bikes, with a $838 free bundle including an extra battery, smart helmet, and stem bag. EcoFlow is running a 48-hour flash sale on its DELTA 3 Classic Power Stations, with a 2x bundle available for $938. The Worx Nitro 20V Cordless Wet/Dry Vacuum is also on sale for $117.03, a new low. Anker's SOLIX E10 Whole-Home Backup System is available with free gifts, starting at $3,799.05.

Why it matters: These deals offer significant discounts on popular products, making them a good opportunity for readers to save money on e-bikes, power stations, and home backup systems.

Electrek

E-bikes are giving teenagers something we thought they’d lost

Teenagers are using e-bikes as a new kind of social space, meeting up and exploring their communities, and getting exercise in the process. This trend is a shift from the decline of traditional third places like malls and arcades. E-bikes are allowing kids to travel farther and explore their neighborhoods in a way that was previously not possible.

Why it matters: This shift highlights the potential of e-bikes as a tool for promoting social interaction and physical activity among teenagers.

InsideEVs

Nissan Wants Hybrids To Be Its Primary Powertrain By 2030

Nissan plans to make hybrids its primary powertrain by 2030, following the growing popularity of hybrid vehicles. The company is set to introduce more hybrid and extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs) in the future. Nissan aims to stay competitive in the market.

Why it matters: This shift in strategy may impact the development and availability of electric vehicles and other powertrain options from Nissan.

Electrek

Rivian: LiDAR R2 reaches customers in 2027, employees get it this year

Rivian's LiDAR-equipped R2 vehicles will be available to employees by the end of 2026, while paying customers will have to wait until 2027. The company's RAP1 autonomy computer and LiDAR will be used in the R2, and the LiDAR costs 'a few hundred dollars'. Rivian's point-to-point driving feature will be available to early adopter customers by the end of the year, but will not require the Gen 3 hardware.

Why it matters: This update provides insight into Rivian's autonomy timeline and pricing strategy, which may impact customer expectations and purchasing decisions.

Electrek

The new 2027 BMW i3 is here with up to 468 miles of range, but it’s not cheap

BMW has opened orders for the 2027 i3 electric sedan, which offers up to 468 miles of range and a starting price of $61,500. The vehicle features a dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain and a 17.9-inch central infotainment screen. The i3 is available to order now with a $1,000 deposit.

Why it matters: The new BMW i3 is a significant addition to the electric vehicle market, offering a range of features and capabilities that may appeal to buyers looking for a premium electric sedan.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla Adds Supercharger Site Maps to Intel Vehicles With Update 2026.38

Tesla has released software update 2026.38, which brings 3D Supercharger Site Maps to older vehicles with Intel Atom infotainment units. The update allows users to view real-time, interactive 3D layouts of Supercharger sites on their center touchscreen. The feature was previously available on newer AMD Ryzen builds. The update also includes visual updates for older vehicles, such as higher-quality vehicle models and an improved parked animation.

Why it matters: This update improves the charging experience for older Tesla owners by providing more accurate and interactive information about Supercharger sites.

Electrek

Tesla’s solar factory dragged into patent war between Chinese suppliers

Linton Crystal Technologies, a US company owned by China's Dalian Linton, has sued Zhejiang Jingsheng in a Texas federal court over two patents related to crystal growth technology. The patents, granted in 2022, cover a design for a Czochralski puller used in monocrystalline silicon ingot production. The lawsuit claims Jingsheng infringed on the patents in a recent order for crystal pullers from Tesla.

Why it matters: The lawsuit highlights the complex supply chain dynamics in the solar industry and the importance of intellectual property protection for companies like Tesla.

Teslarati

Elon Musk weather update tips Tesla Roadster speculation into Plaid Mode

Tesla's Roadster event has been delayed until October 15 due to weather conditions, with Elon Musk hinting at the car's aerial capabilities. The event requires restricted airspace, with a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) issued by the FAA. Musk has mentioned high winds as a reason for the delay, fueling speculation about the car's potential to fly or hover.

Why it matters: The delay and weather-related restrictions suggest that the Tesla Roadster may have capabilities that require a safe and controlled outdoor environment for demonstration.

InsideEVs

The BMW i3’s 468-Mile Range Demolishes Every Tesla

The BMW i3 has achieved an estimated 468 miles of range on the EPA test cycle, surpassing Tesla's current range offerings. This is based on official testing by the US Environmental Protection Agency. The i3's range is a significant improvement over previous estimates.

Why it matters: This development may impact the electric vehicle market, particularly for consumers considering a long-range EV.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla Shares Q3 2026 Analyst Delivery Consensus

Wall Street analysts project 461,974 total deliveries for Tesla in the third quarter of 2026, a 1.3% decline from the previous quarter and a 7% drop from the same period last year. The full-year consensus for 2026 is 1.77 million deliveries. Tesla Energy is expected to reach 15.9 GWh in energy storage deployments for the third quarter, up from 13.5 GWh in the second quarter.

Why it matters: This information provides a baseline for investors to gauge Tesla's performance in the third quarter and full-year 2026.

Electrek

Range Rover Sport EV orders open at nearly $150,000 with up to 378 miles of range

The Range Rover Sport Electric is now available for order in the UK, starting at £110,000 ($146,000). The electric SUV features a dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain with up to 542 horsepower and 378 miles of WLTP range. Deliveries are scheduled to begin next year.

Why it matters: This marks the second fully electric SUV in the Range Rover lineup, expanding the brand's electric offerings.

Teslarati

Tesla snags $30B in fresh credit lines for expanding its biggest projects

Tesla secured $30 billion in credit lines from Citibank and Wells Fargo to support its biggest projects, including Cybercab, Semi, and Optimus. The loans will be used to bolster Tesla's finances for the development of these products. The company plans to utilize the funds to meet its forecasted capital expenditures of over $25 billion.

Why it matters: This funding will help Tesla scale its biggest projects and meet its capital expenditure needs.

Electrek

Tesla Robotaxi fleets are the new crypto treasury for zombie companies

KIDZ AI, a Nasdaq-listed company, sent a procurement inquiry to Tesla for 500 Robotaxis and plans to develop an Autonomous Fleet Operations Strategy. The company has a struggling education business and has made several pivots in recent years, including investing in crypto and AI. The market reacted with a 10% increase in KIDZ AI's stock price before a 6% decline.

Why it matters: This move highlights the trend of companies using Tesla's Robotaxi as a buzzword to boost their stock price, rather than a genuine business strategy.

Electrek

China’s 2,250kW chargers are already in service, while US thinks about 750kW next year

Geely has rolled out 2.2MW chargers in 5 cities in China, with 15,000 planned by the end of next year, while the US is set to introduce 750kW chargers in 2027, a year later than initially planned. The chargers can charge an EV in under 5 minutes. Geely's 2.2MW charger uses an advanced thermal-control algorithm to increase longevity. EVgo's 750kW system will share power between stalls, but the peak power per stall is unknown. Tesla's Supercharger V4 has a 500kW peak power, but most US Superchargers are capped at 350kW or lower.

Why it matters: This highlights the significant difference in the pace of EV charging infrastructure development between China and the US.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla Secures $30 Billion in Loans to Fund Future Projects

Tesla has secured $30 billion in financing through three agreements with lenders, with the option to borrow in stages over the next several years. The agreements include a $20 billion delayed-draw term loan, a $8 billion five-year revolving credit line, and a $2 billion 364-day revolving credit line. Tesla has not borrowed any money under these agreements yet and has no plans to use them this year.

Why it matters: These agreements give Tesla greater flexibility in managing its finances and accessing funds for future projects and investments.

Electrek

IONNA tops 180 charging sites, with discounts for these EV drivers

IONNA has expanded to over 180 charging sites across the US, with discounts for EV drivers of four founding automakers' brands. The company has doubled its footprint since the start of 2026 and is now the largest 400 kW charging network in the US. IONNA has also partnered with Circle K to bring charging to over 350 locations.

Why it matters: This expansion and partnership provide more convenient and accessible charging options for EV drivers across the US.

InsideEVs

The Rivian R2’s New Pet Cam Lets Owners Check On Their Pets From Anywhere

Rivian's R2 electric vehicle features a new 'Pet Cam' that allows owners to check on their pets remotely through a live feed streamed from a hidden camera in the rearview mirror. The camera is accessible through the vehicle's smartphone app. The feature is designed to provide owners with peace of mind when they are away from their vehicle.

Why it matters: This feature may be useful for owners who leave their pets in the vehicle while they are away.

InsideEVs

BMW’s Cheaper i3 Has A Smaller Battery, But The Range Is Still Impressive

BMW has released a new version of the i3 with a smaller battery, but still offers dual-motor all-wheel drive. The new battery is 42.2 kWh, down from the previous 50.3 kWh. The car's range is still estimated at 273 miles.

Why it matters: This update may appeal to buyers who want a more affordable option with a still-impressive range.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla Update 2026.38 Release Notes

Tesla has released update 2026.38, which includes improved center display visuals, enhanced park scene environment, and detailed Supercharger site maps. The update also includes security fixes and improvements. Users can now view site maps and occupancy information for select Superchargers.

Why it matters: This update provides users with more detailed information about Supercharger locations and enhances the overall user experience.

Teslarati

Elon Musk and Trump are closer than ever, and Tesla could be the big winner

Elon Musk sat beside President Donald Trump at a White House event where leaders of major AI companies signed a voluntary safety accord, and Musk also discussed his energy ambitions and Tesla's plans for solar production. The event marked a closer relationship between Musk and Trump, who had previously had a public split. Musk's access to the administration could benefit Tesla's efforts to scale its Robotaxi and Cybercab services.

Why it matters: This development could have implications for Tesla's regulatory environment and its ability to advance its autonomous driving technology.

InsideEVs

The Range Rover Sport Electric Is Here To Take On The Lucid Gravity

The Range Rover Sport is now available as an electric vehicle with a 350 kW charging capability and an estimated range of approximately 400 miles. The electric Range Rover Sport is a variant of the popular SUV. The vehicle's electric powertrain is similar to that of its larger sibling, the Range Rover.

Why it matters: This development provides an alternative to the Lucid Gravity for those seeking a luxury electric SUV option.

InsideEVs

Connected Cars Share A Lot More Data With Companies Than Owners May Realize

A study of 21 connected vehicles found that they communicated with third-party companies, including advertising and analytic firms. The study did not specify the exact nature of the data shared. The vehicles' communication with these companies was not limited to the vehicle's manufacturer or service providers.

Why it matters: This raises concerns about data privacy and the potential for misuse of personal information.

InsideEVs

Tesla Patents 'Electric Fan Car' Weeks Before Roadster Reveal

Tesla has patented an electric fan system for a car, reportedly weeks before the reveal of the new Roadster. The system is designed to improve airflow and cooling. The patent filing does not provide details on the system's implementation.

Why it matters: This patent suggests that the new Roadster may have improved performance and efficiency.

Electrek

Tesla takes on $30 billion in credit as it approaches unprofitability

Tesla has taken out $30 billion in credit lines from Citi and Wells Fargo, replacing a previous $5 billion credit line. The loans have terms between one and five years. Tesla's profits have been low and the company expects to spend $25 billion in 2026, a significant increase from $8.5 billion in 2025.

Why it matters: This move highlights Tesla's financial challenges and increased spending on capital expenditures, which may impact the company's profitability and cash flow.