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Tesla & Electric Vehicles

Tesla, autonomy, charging and the wider EV market.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla Teases Roadster at Semi Event, Hints at Design Changes

Tesla teased the upcoming Roadster at the Semi event, showing a redesigned front fascia with a continuous LED light bar. The design appears to be a departure from the 2017 concept, with sharper creases and a more angular shape. The production-spec Roadster is set to be revealed on October 1 in Texas.

Why it matters: The teaser provides a glimpse into the updated design of Tesla's upcoming halo vehicle, which is expected to be a significant departure from the original concept.

Electrek

Bluetti Early Prime Day drops 2,765Wh Apex 300 to $1,424, exclusive $600 savings on 2,048Wh + 3,584Wh Jackery stations, more

Bluetti's Early Prime Day Sale offers discounts on power stations, including the 2,765Wh Apex 300 Portable Power Station for $1,424, and Jackery's 3,584Wh HomePower 3600 Plus Power Station for $1,299. Roborock's RockMow X115H and X130H Robot Lawn Mowers are also on sale. Additionally, Wellbots is offering a deal on the 2,048Wh HomePower 2000 Plus V2 Power Station for $799.

Why it matters: These deals provide significant savings on high-capacity power stations and robot lawn mowers, which can be useful for outdoor enthusiasts and those in need of backup power solutions.

Electrek

The Genesis GV90 has a clever trick: A pop-up 24.6″ theater [Video]

The Genesis GV90 features a pop-up 24.6″ OLED display that can transform the cabin into a luxury movie theater. The display is part of the Pleos Connect infotainment system, which offers a custom experience depending on whether the vehicle is driving or parked. The system includes a 25-speaker Bang & Olufsen 3D Sound System and a 25″ Head-Up Display.

Why it matters: The GV90's advanced infotainment system and display technology may set a new standard for luxury electric vehicles.

Electrek

EU delays Tesla ‘Full Self-Driving’ vote to December at the earliest

The EU has delayed its vote on Tesla's 'Full Self-Driving' (FSD) system to December at the earliest, after the Technical Committee on Motor Vehicles (TCMV) meeting was rescheduled. The Dutch regulator's request to extend FSD approval EU-wide was listed for discussion, but no vote was scheduled. Tesla had previously stated that an EU-wide vote could happen on October 6.

Why it matters: The delay may impact Tesla's plans to make FSD available in more European countries, as the company had previously expected to roll out the system in the EU by summer 2026.

Electrek

Podcast: Tesla Semi launch, Geely’s battery healing fast-charging, Rivian R3, and more

The Electrek Podcast discussed the Tesla Semi launch, Geely's battery healing fast-charging, and Rivian R3. The podcast is live every Friday at 4 p.m. ET on Electrek's YouTube channel. The show will be archived on YouTube and podcast apps after the live stream ends.

Why it matters: This podcast provides an update on recent developments in sustainable transport and energy.

InsideEVs

Waymo's Latest Safety Numbers Sure Make Human Drivers Look Bad

Waymo reported that its self-driving cars were involved in 82% fewer injury-causing crashes than human drivers after 271 million miles of driving. The company's safety record is based on data from its autonomous vehicles. Waymo's results are compared to national averages for human drivers.

Why it matters: These numbers highlight the potential safety benefits of autonomous vehicles.

Electrek

Volkswagen is clearing out ID.4 EVs with a $12,500 discount

Volkswagen is offering a $12,500 discount on 2025 ID.4 electric SUVs to clear out inventory, which will be phased out in North America. The current ID.4 will be replaced by the ID. Tiguan, a new electric SUV with improved features and design. The ID. Tiguan is expected to debut by the end of 2026.

Why it matters: This discount provides a significant opportunity for customers to purchase a 2025 ID.4 at a lower price point.

Electrek

Tesla patent shows new Roadster with a hidden 700 kg-downforce rear wing

Tesla has filed a patent for a two-piece active rear wing that can produce up to 700 kg of downforce, which is similar to the shape of the next-generation Tesla Roadster. The wing deploys in under 3 seconds and can change its angle in under a quarter of a second. The patent application was published by the USPTO on September 24, a week before the Roadster's unveiling on October 1.

Why it matters: This technology could provide improved handling and stability for the next-generation Tesla Roadster, particularly at high speeds.

Not a Tesla App

What the Cybercab's Consumer-Facing UI Looks Like

A Tesla Cybercab on display in Australia has shown its consumer-facing UI, featuring a 21-inch center display with a layout similar to the Model 3 or Model Y. The UI includes a 3D avatar of the vehicle, map, media controls, and seat adjustment menu. The display also shows interactive sliders for adjusting the seat position and a joystick for manual steering.

Why it matters: This gives a glimpse into the potential user experience of a privately owned Cybercab, which could be available for under $30,000 by the end of the year.

Electrek

Tesla ramps Optimus to hundreds a week, but the robots can’t generalize

Tesla is producing hundreds of Optimus humanoid robots per week, but they are not yet capable of generalizing tasks and have reliability issues. The robots are mostly used internally for testing and training. Tesla aims to reach a production rate of over 1,000 robots per week by the end of the year.

Why it matters: The development of the Optimus robot highlights the challenges of creating humanoid robots that can perform a wide range of tasks reliably.

Electrek

Lexus’ electric 3-row SUV makes its first public appearance

The 2027 Lexus TZ, a purely electric three-row SUV, made its first public appearance while filming a commercial in Toronto. The vehicle is based on the same platform as the Toyota Highlander BEV and features a dual-motor AWD system with up to 420 horsepower. The Lexus TZ will be available with two battery pack options and a driving range of up to 300 miles on a single charge.

Why it matters: The Lexus TZ's features and specifications provide insight into the growing competition in the electric SUV market.

Electrek

Geely’s AI fast charging ‘heals’ EV batteries for 20% more cycle life

Geely has developed an AI-powered fast charging system called Smart Charging that can reverse some of the battery damage caused by fast charging, adding up to 20% more cycle life. The system uses micro-pulse currents to 'reactivate' lithium ions that accumulate on the surface of the anode during repeated fast charging. Geely also introduced a home charging component that 'gradually' fixes degradation from repeated fast charging while the car is plugged in at home overnight.

Why it matters: This technology could help extend the lifespan of electric vehicle batteries, reducing the need for frequent replacements and lowering the overall cost of EV ownership.

Electrek

Green Water & Power powers up its 10,000th EV charger in just 3 years

Green Water & Power has deployed and energized its 10,000th electric vehicle charging port in three years, with a goal to install over 3,000 additional Level 2 chargers and 100 DC fast chargers in the coming months. The company's network has delivered 16.6 million kWh of electricity and maintained a 99.72% uptime. Green Water & Power and Autel Energy have partnered to roll out L2 chargers nationwide since 2023.

Why it matters: This achievement demonstrates the rapid expansion of electric vehicle charging infrastructure in the US, supporting the growth of the EV market.

Electrek

Wheel-E Podcast: South Park e-bikes, Honda eMTB, more

The Wheel-E podcast discusses new e-bikes from Segway and Honda, South Park's take on e-bikes, and other news from the electric bike and non-traditional electric vehicle world. The podcast covers Rivian's e-bike rollout, Royal Enfield's e-moto pricing, and more. The episode is available on YouTube, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter.

Why it matters: This podcast provides an update on the latest developments in the electric bike and non-traditional electric vehicle market.

Electrek

Tesla Semi finally enters volume production, 7 years behind schedule

Tesla has started volume production of the Tesla Semi at its new factory in Nevada, 7 years after its initial promise of 2019. The factory can produce 50,000 electric trucks per year. The truck has undergone significant redesign, including a new battery and drivetrain.

Why it matters: This marks a significant milestone for electric truck adoption and could potentially disrupt the diesel fuel market.

InsideEVs

The Volkswagen ID.4 Just Got Up to $12,500 Cheaper in America

Volkswagen has reduced the price of the ID.4 in the US by up to $12,500. The current-generation ID.4 is being discontinued in the US. The price drop is likely due to the company clearing dealer lots of the outgoing model.

Why it matters: This price drop may make the ID.4 a more attractive option for buyers in the US electric vehicle market.

Teslarati

SpaceX readies Starship Flight 14 for a historic journey into uncharted territory

SpaceX completed a rehearsal for its Starship Flight 14, clearing the way for its first orbital flight on September 28. The rehearsal, a wet dress rehearsal, simulated a launch day countdown without actual liftoff. The mission will test Starship's ability to reach orbit and return, as well as deploy 26 Starlink satellites.

Why it matters: This flight marks a significant milestone for SpaceX's Starship program, as it attempts to reach orbit for the first time and deploy working satellites.

Teslarati

Google just picked SpaceX for its first step into orbital AI

Google is launching its first Project Suncatcher AI satellite, called MVP, on SpaceX's Transporter-18 rideshare mission next week. The satellite will test Google's Tensor Processing Units in space and run Gemini models in bursts to manage heat. The launch follows a partnership between Google and SpaceX, with Google holding a 6% stake in SpaceX.

Why it matters: This launch marks a significant step for Google's research into large-scale AI computing in space.

Electrek

Volkswagen delays its electric minibus for the US — again

Volkswagen has delayed the return of its electric minibus, the ID. Buzz, for the US market until the 2028 model year, following a previous delay from the 2027 model year. The ID. Buzz was initially released in the US in 2024 but struggled to sell due to its limited range and high price. Volkswagen had previously announced updates for the 2027 ID. Buzz, including a new Tourer model and NACS capability.

Why it matters: This delay may impact consumers who were considering purchasing the ID. Buzz for its unique features and nostalgic appeal.

Not a Tesla App

Boring Co. to Build 30-Minute Austin to San Antonio Tunnel

The Boring Company is planning a high-speed underground transit link between Austin and San Antonio, aiming to reduce travel time from 2.5 hours to 30 minutes. The project will involve a 80-mile tunnel with speeds exceeding 200 mph. The tunnel will be a precursor to a Hyperloop system, using electric transport in a streamlined underground tube.

Why it matters: This project could significantly reduce traffic congestion and travel time between two major Texas cities.

InsideEVs

Americans Are Buying Hybrids At A Record Pace. And It's Not Just Toyota Anymore

US hybrid sales have reached a record high, with Toyota still leading the market but other brands increasing their sales. Honda and Lexus are among the brands seeing significant growth. Toyota's hybrid sales are still the highest, but other brands are gaining ground.

Why it matters: This shift in the market may lead to more affordable and competitive hybrid options for consumers.

Electrek

Tesla ‘FSD’ sped in 55% of Brussels 30 km/h zones ahead of EU vote

A Belgian road safety group found that Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) system sped in 55% of 30 km/h zones in Brussels, averaging 44 km/h, and exceeded the 20 km/h limit in 42% of residential streets. The study was conducted in July and covered about 400 km of low-speed streets. The results were published ahead of the EU vote on approving FSD across the bloc.

Why it matters: The findings raise concerns about the safety of Tesla's FSD system in urban areas, particularly for pedestrians and cyclists.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla to Improve Supercharger Site Maps in App Over Time

Tesla has added Supercharger site maps to its app, which allows non-Tesla drivers to access the information. The current app view shows a top-down view of the site, with live occupancy and stall layout, but lacks some features of the in-car experience. Tesla plans to improve the app over time.

Why it matters: The update provides non-Tesla drivers with access to Supercharger site maps, making it easier for them to plan trips and charge their vehicles.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla Robotaxis Could Soon Accept X Money Payments

Tesla's Robotaxi app may soon allow riders to pay for trips using X Money, a digital payment platform. The integration is currently in development, but no official launch date has been announced. The update is part of Tesla's efforts to expand its autonomous ride-hailing network across the US.

Why it matters: This integration could make it easier for riders to pay for Tesla's Robotaxi service, potentially increasing adoption and usage of the service.

Not a Tesla App

Introducing Our Tesla Wraps Library With Community Uploads

Tesla has launched a library of digital wraps for its vehicles, allowing owners to personalize their vehicle's appearance in the Tesla app and in the vehicle's visualization. The library includes designs for various Tesla models, including the Cybertruck, Model S, Model 3, Model X, and Model Y. Owners can also upload their own designs to share with the community.

Why it matters: This feature allows Tesla owners to customize their vehicle's appearance and personalize their driving experience.

Electrek

NHTSA investigates comma.ai’s openpilot over 5 crashes that killed 3

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened an investigation into comma.ai's openpilot system after five crashes, including three fatalities, where vehicles equipped with the system collided with stopped or slow-moving vehicles in their own lane. The investigation covers an estimated 30,000 comma devices. The crashes occurred at highway speeds, with the driver reportedly asleep or distracted. Comma.ai's marketing claims that its system allows for 'hands-free driving' are being scrutinized by NHTSA.

Why it matters: This investigation highlights the potential risks of relying on aftermarket driver assistance systems and the importance of understanding their limitations and capabilities.

Electrek

Thinking about buying a second car? Here’s a $1,000 alternative

A $1,000 alternative to a second car is proposed, using electric two-wheelers such as e-bikes and scooters for short trips, citing their lower costs and maintenance compared to cars. Electric bicycles and scooters can be used for grocery shopping, carrying kids, and other errands. The article suggests that a second car may not be necessary for many families, and that electric two-wheelers can be a more cost-effective option.

Why it matters: This alternative can help families save money on car ownership costs, such as insurance, registration, and maintenance, and reduce their environmental impact.

Teslarati

Tesla Cybercab gets initial tie-in to localized, in-house cathode plant

Tesla has produced the first Cybercab with cathode material made in-house at its U.S. cathode plant, marking a significant step in the company's vertical integration strategy. The plant, located in Texas, is the first of its kind in the Americas. The Cybercab is a key vehicle in Tesla's Robotaxi project, and the in-house cathode production is crucial for its operation.

Why it matters: This development allows Tesla to control costs and reduce its reliance on foreign suppliers, which is essential for the high utilization of the Cybercab in the Robotaxi network.

Electrek

Mercedes-Benz gets first dibs on ProLogium’s Gen4 solid-state EV battery cells

Mercedes-Benz secured exclusive access to ProLogium's Gen4 solid-state EV battery cells, which promise higher energy density, faster charging times, and improved safety. The cells will be tested by Mercedes at external facilities. ProLogium's Gen4 platform aims to overcome manufacturing and cost hurdles for solid-state batteries.

Why it matters: This agreement could accelerate the development of solid-state batteries for electric vehicles, a key technology for improved range and charging speed.