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Tesla & Electric Vehicles

Tesla, autonomy, charging and the wider EV market.

Electrek

BYD tests new ultra-luxury EV with coach doors and a solid-state battery

BYD is testing a new ultra-luxury electric vehicle with coach doors and solid-state batteries, which will be the brand's first to use this technology. The vehicle is part of BYD's Yangwang brand, which showcases the company's breakthrough technologies. The sedan is expected to debut in October and will feature a quad-motor e4 platform and megawatt fast charging.

Why it matters: This new vehicle represents BYD's push into the ultra-luxury segment and its advancements in solid-state battery technology, which could have implications for the wider electric vehicle market.

Not a Tesla App

Germany Confirms December EU Vote on Tesla FSD Approval

Germany's Federal Ministry for Transport confirmed a December 2026 vote on EU-wide recognition of Tesla's Full Self-Driving (Supervised) system. The ministry expressed concerns about the system's ability to exceed speed limits and operate in dense city streets. Germany is currently evaluating technical data and consulting with other European authorities.

Why it matters: This decision will impact the availability of Tesla's FSD system across the European Union.

InsideEVs

Lucid Rolled Out A Big Update For The Air. You Might Need New Hardware To Get It

Lucid has released an update for the Air sedan, introducing a new digital interface called Gravity. The update is similar to the one previously available on the Lucid Gravity SUV. Owners of older Air models will need to purchase a $950 computer upgrade to access the new interface.

Why it matters: This update may be a requirement for owners of older Air models to maintain parity with newer vehicles.

Electrek

GM’s new EV battery tech will cut costs without sacrificing performance or range

GM will mass-produce prismatic LMR battery cells at its Spring Hill, Tennessee facility, offering 33% higher energy density than LFP at a comparable cost. The new battery tech will be used in upcoming electric trucks and full-size SUVs, aiming for over 400 miles of range. The facility will undergo upgrades and create an additional 500 jobs by 2028.

Why it matters: This development could make electric vehicles more competitive with internal combustion engine vehicles in terms of cost and performance.

Electrek

Lucid brings Gravity’s UX to the Air, but older owners must pay $950

Lucid has released software update 2.11.0 for the Lucid Air, bringing the Gravity's UX to the car. Owners of 2025 and newer models get the update for free, while those with 2022, 2023, or some 2024 models need a $950 infotainment processor upgrade. The update includes a new Home screen, improved app handoff, and faster screens.

Why it matters: This update is significant for Lucid Air owners who want a more modern and responsive user experience.

Electrek

We don’t need more e-bike laws. This 11-year-old’s ticket shows why

An 11-year-old boy in Florida was given a traffic citation and had his electric motorcycle towed after police determined it was not a compliant e-bike. The vehicle, a 4,500-watt electric motorcycle, had no pedals and exceeded Florida's speed and power limits for e-bikes. The incident highlights the need for enforcement of existing e-bike laws.

Why it matters: This incident shows that stricter e-bike laws may not be necessary, and instead, enforcing existing regulations could be a more effective solution.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla's Active Robotaxi Markets and Their Actual Sizes

Tesla's Robotaxi service is available in seven major metropolitan regions across the US, with varying levels of autonomy and operational zones. The service has grown from a small pilot in Austin to a large network with different vehicle types and pricing. The operational zones range from 20 to 1,098 square miles.

Why it matters: This expansion of Tesla's Robotaxi service provides more options for people looking for autonomous ride-hailing in various cities.

Electrek

Mango 14kWh 240V Power E CATL station bundle down at $4,199 2026 low, Segway Navimow robot mower $669, Tapo, more

Mango Power is offering a 14kWh 240V Power E CATL station bundle for $4,199, a 72% discount from its original price. The bundle includes 2x Power E CATL stations, 2x batteries, and an mSocket Pro. Segway's Navimow i105N Robot Lawn Mower is also on sale for $669, a $130 discount from its original price. Tapo security devices, including the C660 4K Wireless Outdoor Solar Security Camera, are also discounted.

Why it matters: These deals offer significant savings on high-end power stations and smart home devices, making them more accessible to consumers.

Electrek

Tesla (TSLA) wins SEC OK to auto-vote retail shares with board ahead of SpaceX merger

Tesla has received SEC approval to allow retail shareholders to automatically vote their shares in line with the company's board recommendations, with the option to opt out or override any proposal. The program, called the 'Issuer Voluntary Retail Voting Program', is available to retail investors who opt in and can choose to vote on all matters or exclude certain types of proposals. The SEC approved the program after 'months-long' discussions with Tesla's staff. The program is designed to increase retail investor participation in shareholder votes, which Tesla claims is currently low, with retail investors voting only 28% of their shares in the 2025 proxy season compared to 76.6% for institutions.

Why it matters: This program may increase retail investor participation in shareholder votes, potentially affecting the outcome of future proposals, including a potential SpaceX merger that could impact Elon Musk's pay package.

Electrek

Kia adds new PV5 Chassis Cab with ‘endless’ conversions, including a camper

Kia has introduced the PV5 Chassis Cab, an open-bed model with 'endless' conversion options, including a camper. The PV5 has become Europe's most popular small electric van, accounting for 37% of electric C-segment van sales in the first half of 2026. The new Chassis Cab model will be available in the UK and Europe in 2026, with a long-range 71.2 kWh battery and DC fast charging up to 120 kW.

Why it matters: The PV5 Chassis Cab offers a versatile and customizable electric van option for businesses and individuals.

InsideEVs

General Motors Just Took A Big Step Towards Its Next-Gen EV Battery

General Motors has confirmed the location of a factory for mass-producing lithium-manganese-rich cells for its next-generation electric vehicle batteries. The factory's location was not specified. The move is part of the company's efforts to improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of its EV batteries.

Why it matters: This development could lead to improved performance and reduced costs for General Motors' future electric vehicles.

Electrek

EVgo’s 750 kW charging system is coming in 2027

EVgo has announced a new DC fast charging system capable of delivering up to 750 kW, which will share power among charging stalls and adjust to each EV's battery needs. The system is currently being developed and tested at EVgo's Innovation Lab in California. The company expects to reveal the final design and begin deploying the system in 2027.

Why it matters: This new charging system could significantly reduce charging times for electric vehicles, potentially allowing for 10-minute charging sessions for the fastest-charging EVs.

Electrek

Hyundai launches electric Ioniq V for under $15,000, but you can’t have it

Hyundai has launched the Ioniq V in China with a starting price of under $15,000, although the vehicle is not available in the US. The Ioniq V has a 53.5kWh or 66.8kWh battery and a WLTP range of 443km or 533km. The vehicle is available with a limited-time discount and additional warranty coverage.

Why it matters: The Ioniq V's affordable price and features may be of interest to readers considering an electric vehicle in the Chinese market.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla Wins Approval to Launch FSD (Supervised) in Croatia

Tesla has received approval to launch its Full Self-Driving (Supervised) technology in Croatia, marking the eighth European nation to do so. The approval is part of Tesla's strategy of pursuing bilateral, country-by-country approvals. Croatia is the third European country to authorize FSD this month, following Czechia and Slovenia.

Why it matters: This development brings Tesla's self-driving technology closer to widespread adoption in Europe, which could have implications for the company's future growth and competitiveness.

Teslarati

Tesla Roadster’s new patent preps white-knuckle speeds, keeping it grounded

Tesla has been granted a patent for a ducted-fan system that can produce downforce without relying on air velocity, allowing the Roadster to maintain stability at high speeds. The system uses electrically driven fans to pull air from the underbody and expel it through a rear outlet. The design aims to address a problem unique to high-performance electric cars, where instant motor torque is useless without sufficient downforce.

Why it matters: This technology could enable the Tesla Roadster to achieve its claimed acceleration and top speed without compromising stability.

Electrek

Two Silverado EVs and a 150 kWh battery powered this entire concert tour

A five-stop concert tour in Quebec was powered entirely by two Chevrolet Silverado EVs and a 150 kWh mobile power plant. The tour, called 'Le goût du paysage', featured Québécois artists Émile Proulx-Cloutier and Dumas, and chef Oli. The event was free and ran from August 15 to 22.

Why it matters: This event demonstrates the potential for electric vehicles to provide power for events in remote locations without access to the grid.

InsideEVs

The Mazda CX-6e Is Easy To Like, But Hard To Take On A Road Trip

A 444-mile road test of the Mazda CX-6e revealed a comfortable cabin and responsive handling, but also some issues with the electric vehicle's performance and features.

Why it matters: The review highlights the trade-offs that come with choosing an electric vehicle for long road trips.

Electrek

Hyundai is launching two new EVs, the IONIQ 4 and IONIQ 7

Hyundai is launching two new electric SUVs, the IONIQ 4 and IONIQ 7, to fill gaps in its EV lineup. The IONIQ 4 is a B-segment SUV, while the IONIQ 7 is a larger SUV with two- or three-row seating. The IONIQ 4 is expected to start at around £25,000, while the IONIQ 7 will start at around £45,000 to £50,000.

Why it matters: These new EVs will give consumers more options in the Hyundai lineup and potentially expand the brand's presence in the European market.

Electrek

Tesla patents ‘Electric Fan Car’ with 4 ducted fans ahead of Roadster reveal

Tesla was granted a patent for an 'Electric Fan Car' system using four electric ducted fans in the rear diffuser to improve downforce at any speed. The system is designed to be independent of vehicle velocity and can be controlled by the driver or automatically. The patent is for a Model S, but Tesla has since stopped producing the car.

Why it matters: This technology could potentially improve the performance of Tesla's remaining performance car, the Roadster, by providing increased downforce and braking stability.

Teslarati

Tesla showrooms picked clean ahead of Q3 end as demand looks strong

Tesla showrooms have been cleared of vehicles ahead of the end of the third quarter, with many locations selling out of Model 3 and Model Y trim levels. Only the Model Y RWD and Model Y All-Wheel-Drive are available for delivery before the year's end. Delivery estimates for new vehicles have been pushed into late 2026 and early 2027.

Why it matters: This suggests strong demand for Tesla's vehicles, which could lead to a record-breaking quarter for the company.

Not a Tesla App

New Tesla Patent Describes Using Fans to Increase Vehicle Downforce (Hint: Tesla Roadster)

Tesla has been granted a patent for a fan system that increases downforce and reduces aerodynamic drag on vehicles. The system uses battery-powered fans to manage airflow beneath a vehicle, creating a lower-pressure area that helps stick the vehicle to the road. The patent includes a diagram showing four electric fans positioned side by side, with vertical fins to help manage airflow.

Why it matters: This technology could improve cornering grip and braking stability in vehicles, particularly in the Tesla Roadster.

InsideEVs

EVgo Is Supercharging Its Network With 750 kW EV Chargers

EVgo is expanding its network with new 750 kW supercharging stalls that support dynamic power sharing. The new stalls will feature more NACS ports. The company aims to upgrade its existing stations with the new technology.

Why it matters: This upgrade will provide faster charging for electric vehicle owners, reducing charging times and improving overall user experience.

InsideEVs

The 2027 Mercedes G 580 EV Gets A NACS Port, More Range, And Faster Charging

The 2027 Mercedes G 580 EV will feature a new NACS port, increasing its charging capabilities. The vehicle will also have more range and faster charging speeds. The G 580 EV will have two charging ports, similar to the new CLA EV.

Why it matters: This update will provide owners with more convenience and flexibility when charging their vehicle.

Electrek

Tesla’s two week notice, Volvo’s autonomous milestone, and fun with LEGO

Tesla's CEO Elon Musk has pushed back the reveal of the new 'flying' Roadster 2.0 by two weeks due to weather conditions. The European Union has delayed the vote to approve Full Self Driving (Supervised) until at least December. A review of the movie The Money Pit is also featured in the podcast.

Why it matters: These developments may impact investors and enthusiasts waiting for updates on Tesla's new Roadster and the adoption of autonomous driving technology.

Teslarati

Watch Tesla’s “guardian angel” FSD feature take over for collision evasion

A Tesla owner shared a video showing the company's Automatic Collision Evasion feature in action, which successfully took control of the vehicle to avoid a curb. The feature is part of Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) system and is available on HW4 vehicles with an active FSD purchase or subscription. The feature can detect when a driver is inattentive or has switched off FSD by accident and can take control to prevent a collision.

Why it matters: This feature is a significant advancement in autonomous driving technology, providing an additional layer of safety for drivers and passengers.

InsideEVs

Volkswagen Is Going Big On Cheaper LFP Batteries In Europe

Volkswagen has partnered with China's Gotion to produce lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries for mass-market electric vehicles. The partnership aims to make these batteries more affordable for European consumers. The LFP batteries will be used in Volkswagen's mass-market EVs.

Why it matters: This deal could make electric vehicles more accessible to a wider range of consumers in Europe by reducing battery costs.

Electrek

US clean energy jobs fell for the first time since the pandemic

The US lost 36,949 clean energy jobs in 2025, ending four years of growth, with 35 states experiencing job losses. The decline was attributed to the Trump administration's policy reversal and resulting project cancellations. Clean energy employment fell to 3.52 million, the first annual decline since the pandemic.

Why it matters: The decline in clean energy jobs highlights the impact of policy changes on the industry and its workforce.