mrlloyd.net's Tech Brief

Tesla & Electric Vehicles

Tesla, autonomy, charging and the wider EV market.

Electrek

Toyota is finally taking its best-seller electric

Toyota is preparing to introduce an electric version of its best-selling Corolla, which has sold over 57 million units worldwide since 1966. The new Corolla will have a sleek design, high-tech interior, and updated platform. The company will also offer hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and internal combustion engine options.

Why it matters: The new Corolla's electric and hybrid options will provide consumers with more environmentally friendly choices in a popular and affordable vehicle.

InsideEVs

Geely's New EV Charger Is Absurdly Powerful: 2.2 Megawatts

Geely has developed an electric vehicle charger with a power output of 2.2 megawatts, surpassing BYD's Flash chargers. The charger's power output is 2.25 megawatts. This is a significant increase in charging speed.

Why it matters: This technology could enable faster charging times for electric vehicles, potentially increasing their adoption and use.

Electrek

Nissan reveals its newest EV, an affordable electric city cruiser with 259 km of range [Images]

Nissan has unveiled its new electric city car, the Pixo EV, which will be its most affordable EV starting under $25,000. The Pixo EV is based on the Renault Twingo and has a 27.5 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery with a WLTP range of up to 259 km. The car features advanced driver assistance systems and Google built-in navigation.

Why it matters: The Pixo EV is significant for European consumers looking for an affordable electric vehicle option, with a starting price expected to be under €20,000.

Electrek

Tesla’s ‘hardcore lawyers’ went a little too hardcore

Tesla's lawyers were accused of witness tampering in a California court, with a senior attorney allegedly calling a witness and trying to influence his testimony. The incident occurred during a trial over racism allegations at Tesla's Fremont factory. The company's outside counsel also testified that the N-word is a 'term of respect and endearment' in the Black community, using rap lyrics as evidence. The trial is ongoing and expected to run through October.

Why it matters: The case highlights concerns about witness tampering and the potential for corporate influence on testimony in high-stakes lawsuits.

Electrek

Donut Lab really wants us to believe its ‘miracle solid-state battery’ is real

Intertek lab in the UK found 3.4 ppm of lithium in a sample of Donut Lab's battery, leading the company to claim it's neither lithium-ion nor sodium-ion. The lab report only measured two elements and didn't analyze the electrolyte layer. The report was revised three times in five days, and the lab notes that opinions and interpretations are outside the scope of their accreditation. The results don't provide conclusive evidence of the battery's chemistry.

Why it matters: The lack of transparency and inconsistent reporting raises questions about the validity of Donut Lab's claims and the accuracy of their battery technology.

Electrek

Get paid to charge, a free charger, *and* save the grid with a new GM EV in CA

General Motors and Pacific Gas and Electric are partnering to offer a deal that includes a free charger, payment for charging, and grid savings for new EV buyers in California. The deal, called the Smart Charge Bundle, is available for customers who purchase a new GM EV from a participating dealer in Northern or Central California. The program aims to reduce strain on the grid by shifting charging to off-peak hours.

Why it matters: This deal can help reduce the strain on California's grid and make EV ownership more affordable for residents.

Electrek

Trucks gone wild! VinFast launches VF Wild EREV pickup

VinFast has launched the VF Wild, an electric-revolutionary pickup truck with a 46.4 kWh battery pack and a range-extending ICE motor, offering up to 1,000 km of range. The truck has a 160 kW electric motor and a 1.5L petrol engine. The VF Wild is priced at around $33,000 and is expected to compete with industry heavyweights like the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux.

Why it matters: The VF Wild's electric-revolutionary design and competitive pricing make it a notable entry in the electrified truck market.

InsideEVs

The New BMW i3 EV Is Coming To The U.S. Sooner Than Expected

BMW has opened order books for the new i3 electric sedan in the US, earlier than expected. The exact date of delivery is not specified. The i3 is a compact electric vehicle with a range of around 260 miles.

Why it matters: This development is significant for US consumers interested in purchasing an electric vehicle with a compact design.

InsideEVs

Volkswagen Is Now Selling More EVs Than Gas Cars In Germany. That Changes The Plan

Volkswagen is now selling more electric vehicles (EVs) than gasoline-powered cars in Germany, driven by growing demand for EVs in the country. This shift in sales has significant implications for the company's production plans. Volkswagen must adapt its manufacturing strategy to meet the increasing demand for EVs.

Why it matters: This change in sales dynamics will likely influence Volkswagen's investment decisions and production capacity in Germany.

InsideEVs

The BMW iX3 Beat Mercedes And Volvo On Efficiency And Range In A Highway Test

The BMW iX3 was tested on a highway route and used less energy than the Mercedes-Benz GLC and Volvo EX60, despite having a larger battery. The iX3's efficiency allowed it to achieve better range. The test compared the vehicles' energy consumption on the same route.

Why it matters: This comparison highlights the iX3's potential for improved real-world range and efficiency.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla Updates FSD v14.3.10 and v14.2 Lite With Update 2026.27.11 (Release Notes)

Tesla has released FSD v14.3.10 and FSD v14.2 Lite with update 2026.27.11, which includes various improvements to Full Self-Driving (FSD) capabilities. The update also enables a feature that allows Tesla vehicles to share their battery with a Powerwall during an outage. The update also includes improvements to Automatic Collision Evasion and various other features.

Why it matters: This update provides Tesla owners with improved safety features and increased functionality for their vehicles.

Teslarati

Tesla Semi lands the biggest electric truck deal in U.S. history

Tesla has secured the largest electric truck order in US history, with a 2,500-truck deal from ZET SCALE, a new alliance of shippers and carriers. The order will nearly double the number of electric heavy trucks operating in the US. Tesla was selected as the primary manufacturer through a competitive request for proposals.

Why it matters: This deal highlights the growing demand for electric trucks and the increasing adoption of sustainable transportation solutions.

InsideEVs

Mercedes Taps Wayve For Tesla FSD-Like System Within 2 Years

Mercedes has partnered with Wayve to develop a Tesla-like Full Self-Driving (FSD) system, aiming to have it ready within two years. The system will be based on Wayve's software and will be integrated into Mercedes' vehicles. The partnership is part of Mercedes' efforts to improve its autonomous driving capabilities.

Why it matters: This development could bring a more advanced autonomous driving system to Mercedes vehicles, potentially enhancing safety and convenience for drivers.

InsideEVs

Rivian Says The R2 Has Half The Carbon Footprint Of An R1S

Rivian's R2 electric vehicle has a lower carbon footprint than the R1S, according to the company's latest sustainability report. The R2 helped Rivian meet its carbon footprint goals four years ahead of schedule. The report highlights the R2's environmental benefits.

Why it matters: This achievement demonstrates Rivian's commitment to reducing its environmental impact and meeting its sustainability targets.

Electrek

Rivian R3 will be ‘materially’ cheaper than R2, and R4 goes even lower

Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe stated that the upcoming R3 crossover will be 'materially lower' in price than the R2, with the R4 model going even lower. The R3 is expected to be priced in the 'mid to high 30s'. Production of the R3 will start in 2028 at Rivian's Georgia factory.

Why it matters: This announcement suggests that Rivian is planning to expand its lineup to make electric vehicles more accessible to a wider range of consumers.

InsideEVs

Teslas Are Way More Likely To Have Salvage Titles: Report

A report by EpicVIN found that nearly 20% of auctioned Teslas have salvage titles, which is more than twice the industry average. This is based on data from 2022. The report did not specify the reasons for the high number of salvage titles on Teslas.

Why it matters: This information may be relevant for potential buyers of used Teslas, who should be aware of the higher likelihood of salvage titles.

Electrek

Electric Porsche Boxster spotted plugged in at Tesla Supercharger in California

A Porsche Boxster electric vehicle was spotted plugged into a Tesla Supercharger in California, providing a closer look at the car's design and charging setup. The vehicle has camouflage and tape covering its rear lightbar and headlights. The car is expected to be a production version of the upcoming 718 EV, which was previously rumored to be on the chopping block.

Why it matters: This sighting suggests that Porsche is moving forward with the development of the 718 EV and may be adopting a single NACS charging port for its smaller sportscars.

Electrek

BMW’s new iX3 gets an early loyalty discount

BMW is offering an early loyalty discount of $500 for customers who buy or lease the new 2027 iX3, which starts at $61,500 and has an EPA-estimated driving range of up to 434 miles. The discount can be combined with a special financing rate of 4.99% for 60 months. Deliveries of the 2027 iX3 began in the US on September 16, a week ahead of schedule due to strong customer demand.

Why it matters: This offer may be of interest to customers who are considering purchasing or leasing the 2027 iX3 and want to save money.

Electrek

Tesla Semi wins 2,500-truck order, doubling US electric Class 8 fleet

Tesla has secured a 2,500-truck order from the ZET SCALE alliance, a new shipper alliance aiming to electrify the US trucking industry. The order is the largest electric Class 8 order in US history and will be deployed across 10 freight hubs over the next few years. Tesla won the primary OEM slot through a competitive RFP, with Kenworth, Volvo, and RIDE named as secondary suppliers.

Why it matters: This order could help accelerate the adoption of electric trucks in the US and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla Adds Grok Bot to Vehicles for Hands-Free Errands and Tasks

Tesla has integrated Grok Bot into its vehicles, allowing drivers to perform hands-free tasks such as checking email, managing calendars, and making online purchases while driving. The feature is available to SuperGrok Heavy subscribers, with other tiers to follow. The system can also access third-party apps with secure integrations called Connectors.

Why it matters: This integration enables drivers to stay productive and focused on the road while their vehicle handles tasks such as ordering groceries or managing their schedule.

InsideEVs

PHEV Batteries Take A Beating If Used Right. But They Still Last

PHEV batteries experience more frequent charge cycles due to their smaller size and frequent use, potentially reducing lifespan. This increased usage can lead to battery degradation. PHEV batteries still maintain a long lifespan despite the added stress.

Why it matters: This information can help PHEV owners understand the potential battery degradation and plan accordingly.

Teslarati

Tesla integrates Grok Bot into its vehicles for the ultimate personal assistant

Tesla has integrated Grok Bot into its vehicles, allowing drivers to manage email, calendars, files, chats, and tasks by voice and complete multi-step tasks such as ordering food or booking appointments. The feature is currently limited to SuperGrok Heavy subscribers. The integration aims to make the car a hands-free productivity hub.

Why it matters: This integration enables drivers to stay productive and organized while on the road, potentially increasing their overall efficiency and reducing distractions.

Teslarati

X changed how everyone gets paid, and this lawsuit shows why

X has sued a Bitcoin account network for allegedly faking engagement to scam payouts under its old Creator Revenue Sharing program. The accounts, which were suspended in August, are accused of earning at least £207,384. X has since replaced the program with Original Content Rewards, which prioritizes original content over engagement.

Why it matters: The lawsuit highlights the challenges X faced with its previous payment model and the importance of its new approach to rewarding creators.

Electrek

Toyota’s popular $15,000 Chinese EV spotted testing overseas in RHD [Images]

A right-hand drive version of Toyota's bZ3X electric SUV was spotted testing overseas, suggesting the vehicle may be brought to global markets. The bZ3X is a popular electric SUV produced by Toyota's joint venture in China, with over 10,000 orders secured in an hour. The vehicle is available in nine configurations in China, with prices starting at around $14,000.

Why it matters: This development could make the bZ3X available to a wider range of customers, potentially expanding the global electric vehicle market.

Electrek

Jackery Early Access Prime Day Sale drops 3,584Wh HomePower 3600 Pro Max to $1,799, Lectric e-bikes up to $804 off, more

Jackery's Early Access Prime Big Deal Days Sale offers up to 65% discounts on power stations, including the HomePower 3600 Pro Max Portable Power Station for $1,799. Lectric's 4-Day World Car-Free Flash Sale features e-bikes with up to $804 savings and 30% off extra batteries. Other deals include a Greenworks 24V 20-inch Cordless Electric Hedge Trimmer for $89.99 and a BLACK+DECKER 12A 3-in-1 Electric Leaf Blower, Vacuum, and Mulcher for $79.

Why it matters: These deals can help consumers save money on eco-friendly products and home appliances.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla App Update 4.61 Adds Passkey and Supercharger Site Map Support

The Tesla app has been updated to version 4.61, adding passkey support, Supercharger site maps, and other features. The update allows users to sign in using Face ID or Touch ID, view Supercharger stall orientations, and adjust wheel visualization. The update also hints at Tesla's robotaxi service being an option for backup transportation when taking a vehicle in for service.

Why it matters: The update provides users with more convenient and secure authentication options and access to more information about Supercharger sites.

InsideEVs

High-Mileage EVs May Hold Up Better Than Gas Cars: Study

A study of 47 million vehicle inspections in the U.K. found that high-mileage electric vehicles (EVs) may hold up better than gas cars. The study suggests that EVs are less likely to fail at high mileage. The study analyzed data from 2015 to 2020.

Why it matters: This study provides evidence that EVs can be a reliable option for long-term ownership.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla's Smart Summon May Soon See a Range Increase in Europe

The UNECE has begun reviewing a proposal to increase the RCP range in UN Regulation No. 79, which affects Tesla's Smart Summon feature in Europe. The proposed amendment would increase the range from 6 meters to 10 meters for general use and up to 15 meters with direct line of sight. This could allow Tesla to send an OTA update to almost triple the distance allowed during Smart Summon use.

Why it matters: This change could improve the usability of Tesla's Smart Summon feature in Europe, making it more practical for owners to use in various parking scenarios.