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Tesla & Electric Vehicles

Tesla, autonomy, charging and the wider EV market.

Not a Tesla App

Italy Backs EU-Wide Tesla FSD Approval After Salvini Speaks With Elon Musk

Italy's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Infrastructure and Transport Matteo Salvini announced support for EU-wide approval of Tesla's supervised driving software, following a conversation with Elon Musk. Tesla's Assisted Driving software, previously known as FSD, has already received national approval in several EU countries. A vote on EU-wide approval is expected no earlier than December.

Why it matters: This development brings Tesla's Assisted Driving software closer to being approved across the entire European Union, potentially expanding its availability to more drivers.

InsideEVs

‘We Are Long-Term Committed In Europe’: Why Tariffs Won’t Scare Zeekr Off

Zeekr, a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, has stated that it remains committed to the European market despite potential tariffs. The company's CEO believes that the current discussions and regulations are a normal part of the industry. Zeekr is working to ensure compliance with EU regulations.

Why it matters: This commitment is significant for European consumers who are considering purchasing an electric vehicle from a Chinese manufacturer.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla Extends Robotaxi Hours to 2 AM, Adds New Calm Mode That Hides FSD Visuals

Tesla has extended the operating hours of its Robotaxi fleet to 2 AM, adding a 20-hour service window. The update also includes a new 'Calm Mode' that dims the screen and removes FSD visualizations. The Robotaxi now supports a rear camera view and redesigned Live Activities for the iOS app.

Why it matters: This update expands the availability of Tesla's Robotaxi service, potentially increasing convenience for users.

Teslarati

Tesla Full Self-Driving becomes main pillar of new Referral Program

Tesla has revised its Referral Program to focus on Full Self-Driving subscriptions, offering a month of FSD (Supervised) for each referral, with up to a year of free FSD available for 12 referrals. The new program replaces the previous program that offered $250 in Tesla Credits. The change aims to make the program more inclusive and fun for all Tesla owners. The Full Self-Driving suite is now the centerpiece of the program, reflecting Tesla's focus on FSD subscriptions, which saw a significant increase in Q3.

Why it matters: The revised Referral Program may encourage more Tesla owners to subscribe to Full Self-Driving, which is crucial for the development and improvement of the technology.

Electrek

Volkswagen hits pause on the Golf EV as it faces an ‘urgent need for action’

Volkswagen has paused development of the electric Golf at its Wolfsburg plant in Germany due to cost-cutting measures. The decision is part of the company's restructuring efforts, which include reducing its global workforce and closing several plants in Germany. The electric Golf was initially planned to launch in 2028, but its launch has been delayed to 2030.

Why it matters: This decision highlights the challenges faced by automakers in balancing cost-cutting measures with the development of new electric vehicles.

Electrek

Waymo picks Toyota bZ4X as its next robotaxi, starting in Japan in 2027

Waymo has partnered with Toyota to produce a custom version of the Toyota bZ4X electric SUV with Waymo's self-driving technology, with the first test fleet launching in Japan in 2027. The vehicle will have features such as extra rear legroom, automatic doors, and ambient lighting. The partnership allows Waymo to expand its fleet with a Japanese-built car, with plans to launch in the UK and other markets in later years.

Why it matters: This partnership provides Waymo with a new vehicle option for its robotaxi service and expands its presence in the Japanese market.

Electrek

Wheel-e Podcast: New Amflow, Trek e-bikes, ALSO runs out of charge, more

The Wheel-E podcast discussed new e-bikes from Amflow and Trek, a new Bosch motor, and an ALSO e-bike's performance on low charge. The podcast also covered a new electric motorcycle and Jasion's eMinibike. LiveWire is facing potential issues. The podcast is available on various platforms.

Why it matters: The podcast provides a summary of recent developments in the electric bike and non-traditional electric vehicle industry.

Electrek

Jasion Poki review: The Electric Minibike that packs heavy-duty fun

The Jasion Poki is an electric minibike with a powerful motor, a wide seat for two people, and a built-in Bluetooth speaker. It has a compact design and can be folded up for easier storage. However, it has some drawbacks, including a high weight and a top speed that may be too high for safety.

Why it matters: The Jasion Poki's design and features may appeal to those looking for a fun and portable electric vehicle for short trips, but its safety and weight concerns may limit its practicality.

InsideEVs

Volkswagen Can't Afford Its Upcoming Electric Golf Right Now

Volkswagen is pausing development of the ID. Golf EV due to financial constraints. The move delays the model's launch. The ID. Golf EV was expected to be a key part of Volkswagen's electric vehicle lineup.

Why it matters: This delay may impact Volkswagen's ability to meet its electric vehicle sales targets.

InsideEVs

I Drove The 2027 Nissan Rogue Hybrid And Toyota RAV4 Back To Back. One Stood Out

The fourth-generation Nissan Rogue Hybrid was tested alongside the Toyota RAV4, with the Rogue showing smooth acceleration and refinement. The test involved driving both vehicles back to back. The driving experience of the Rogue was compared to driving an electric vehicle.

Why it matters: This comparison highlights the performance capabilities of the 2027 Nissan Rogue Hybrid.

InsideEVs

Toyota Is Turning The bZ EV Into A Waymo Robotaxi, Starting in 2027

Toyota plans to produce a driverless version of its bZ4X electric crossover, starting in 2027. The autonomous vehicles will be built on the same assembly line as the regular bZ4X. The production timeline is set for 2027.

Why it matters: This move marks Toyota's entry into the robotaxi market, potentially expanding its presence in the autonomous transportation sector.

Electrek

Harley-Davidson’s electric motorcycle brand LiveWire warns it may not survive

LiveWire, Harley-Davidson's electric motorcycle brand, has expressed doubts about its ability to continue operating as a going concern due to financial struggles. The company's stock price plummeted 40% after it withdrew its full-year financial guidance. LiveWire reported a net loss of $18.6 million in the third quarter and a significant decline in cash reserves.

Why it matters: This news may impact investors and fans of electric motorcycles, as well as the broader electric vehicle market.

InsideEVs

Rivian's Amazon Van Got A Big Upgrade To Cover More Routes

Rivian's Amazon van has been upgraded with a longer-range battery and an all-wheel-drive version with 710 horsepower. The upgrade aims to improve the van's capabilities for Amazon's delivery routes. The van is designed for electric delivery services.

Why it matters: This upgrade may improve the van's efficiency and reliability for Amazon's delivery operations.

Electrek

Someone ran Rivian’s pedal-by-wire e-bike out of battery and things got weird

A Rivian ALSO TM-B e-bike owner deliberately ran the bike out of battery to test its pedal-by-wire system, discovering a feature called 'Infinite Turtle Mode' that allows the bike to continue moving with minimal assistance when the battery is low. The bike's system progressively restricts assistance as the battery drains, eventually entering Infinite Turtle Mode at 4% charge. In this mode, the bike uses the rider's pedaling energy to keep the rear wheel turning, but with limited effectiveness on hills.

Why it matters: This experiment highlights the unique characteristics of the ALSO TM-B's pedal-by-wire system and its limitations when the battery is low.

Teslarati

Tesla made napping in a Robotaxi easier with its latest update

Tesla has updated its Robotaxi service to include a quiet mode that blacks out the screen for riders who want to rest, allowing them to sleep during the ride. The feature was first introduced in the Cybercab and is now available in the Model Y Robotaxi. The quiet mode can be activated by tapping a crescent moon icon on the screen.

Why it matters: This update makes it more convenient for passengers to take a nap during a Robotaxi ride, which could be useful for those who need to rest during their commute.

InsideEVs

Fiat's Tiny $15,000 EV Can Finally Hit American Streets

Fiat has made the Topolino, a tiny electric vehicle, available for purchase in the US market. The Topolino has a price tag of $15,000. The vehicle is a small, electric car.

Why it matters: The Topolino's affordability and compact size may appeal to budget-conscious buyers looking for an eco-friendly option.

Electrek

BYD spotted testing a new minivan [Video]

BYD's upcoming Ocean MPV was spotted testing in China, showing a boxy design with a wide grille and traditional door handles, differing from the futuristic concept unveiled earlier. The vehicle is expected to feature a 2+2+3 seating layout and a 3,045 mm wheelbase. BYD has not confirmed powertrain or battery specs, but is expected to use its DM-i plug-in hybrid system and Blade Batteries.

Why it matters: The Ocean MPV is expected to fill the gap in BYD's MPV lineup between the Denza D9 and the Xia.

InsideEVs

Ford CEO Says Its New EV Tech Is 30% More Efficient Than BYD's

Ford's new electric vehicle technology is designed to improve efficiency and reduce costs. The technology includes new motors, inverters, and EV gearboxes. This is intended to enhance the overall performance of Ford's electric vehicles.

Why it matters: This development may impact the cost and range of future Ford electric vehicles.

Electrek

Rivian’s electric van gets 30% more range and AWD, now delivering

Rivian has started delivering an upgraded version of its electric van with a 30% increase in range and all-wheel drive (AWD) capability. The upgrade is limited to the larger 700 van model, which now has a 129 kWh battery pack. The new van is designed to expand route coverage into more rural networks.

Why it matters: This upgrade makes Rivian's van more competitive in the fleet market, particularly for rural delivery routes.

Electrek

Toyota’s EV sales more than doubled in a year, but gas cars are getting crushed in China

Toyota's electric vehicle sales have increased by 127% through September, with the company selling 309,766 battery electric vehicles globally. The growth is attributed to the launch of updated electric SUVs and new models. Toyota's overall sales, however, fell for the third straight month in September, mainly due to declining demand in China.

Why it matters: The shift in Toyota's sales highlights the growing demand for electric vehicles and the challenges faced by traditional automakers in adapting to changing market trends.

Electrek

Rivian (RIVN) Q3 2026 earnings: revenue up 38%, R2 now its best-seller

Rivian's Q3 2026 revenue reached $2.155 billion, a 38% year-over-year increase, with the R2 being the company's best-selling vehicle. The company beat Wall Street's expectations and raised its 2026 guidance on every metric. Rivian's automotive segment posted a gross loss of $80 million, but the software and services segment brought in $605 million in revenue and $256 million in gross profit.

Why it matters: The results indicate that Rivian is making progress in reducing its automotive cost of goods sold per unit and increasing revenue per vehicle, despite still losing money in the car business.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla Semi Wins Top Gear’s 2027 Tech Award

Tesla's electric Semi won the Top Gear Tech Award in the U.S. Car Awards 2027, praised for its capabilities as a practical and useful vehicle. The award comes as the Semi moves past its pilot phase and enters high-volume production. The Semi features a range of up to 500 miles and 1.2 MW peak charging.

Why it matters: This award highlights the Semi's capabilities as a practical and useful vehicle, which may influence consumer perception of Tesla's product line.

InsideEVs

Volkswagen's EVs Are Selling Like Crazy. That's Actually Hurting Its Profits

Volkswagen's electric vehicle sales have increased significantly, but the company's profit margins are being negatively impacted due to low profit margins on these vehicles. The low profit margins are attributed to the high cost of battery production. Volkswagen is not alone in this issue, as many other automakers are also struggling with low profit margins on electric vehicles.

Why it matters: This highlights the challenges that automakers face in transitioning to electric vehicles and the need to balance production costs with consumer demand.

Electrek

EcoFlow 3,072Wh power station $1,299 in flash sale, exclusive refurb Anker SOLIX deals, Segway F3 e-scooter $650 low, more

EcoFlow's DELTA 3 Ultra 3,072Wh Power Station is on sale for $1,299, matching Amazon's price, and Anker's SOLIX refurbished F3800 3,840Wh Power Station is available for $1,463. Segway's F3 Electric Scooter is also discounted to $649.99 after redeeming 800 points, or $1,499 without points. The deals are part of various sales and promotions.

Why it matters: These deals offer discounts on power stations and e-scooters, which can be useful for those looking to purchase or upgrade their portable power solutions or electric transportation.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla Offers Free Robotaxi Rides for First-Time Riders

Tesla is offering free Robotaxi rides for first-time riders in Houston and Dallas, with a $0.00 fare displayed on the booking page. The promotion is currently not available in Austin, which is the only market with Cybercabs. Tesla runs Robotaxi in seven markets, with fully autonomous rides in six of them.

Why it matters: This promotion may encourage new riders to try Tesla's Robotaxi service, potentially increasing adoption and usage in the markets where it is available.

Electrek

Hyundai hints at IONIQ P as the name for its new entry-level EV

Hyundai is launching a new mass-market electric SUV in India, expected to be called the IONIQ P, as its first locally produced electric vehicle. The new SUV will be smaller and lower-priced than the Creta Electric. Hyundai plans to launch 100 new or refreshed vehicles by 2030, including 26 in India.

Why it matters: This new electric SUV is significant for Hyundai's growth plans in India, where it aims to reach 1.1 million units in production capacity by 2030.

Teslarati

FCC green lights SpaceX’s move to a showdown with Verizon and AT&T

The FCC voted to advance a proposal to open 482 MHz of spectrum to satellite service, potentially benefiting SpaceX's Starlink Mobile. The proposal would allow satellite operators to use spectrum without leasing it from carriers. The vote does not grant SpaceX any spectrum, but opens a public comment period.

Why it matters: This decision could widen the road for SpaceX's Starlink Mobile to compete with major wireless carriers.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla Breaks Compatibility With Third-Party V2L Devices

Tesla's latest software update has broken compatibility with third-party vehicle-to-load (V2L) devices, which allow owners to use their car's battery to power external devices. Owners who rely on these devices report that the update causes the car to shut down after a few minutes of discharging. The issue affects owners who use third-party adapters, such as those from Elejoy, which plug into the car's CCS port.

Why it matters: This issue may limit the ability of owners of older Tesla vehicles without the built-in Powershare V2L feature to use their car's battery to power external devices.