mrlloyd.net's Tech Brief

Tesla & Electric Vehicles

Tesla, autonomy, charging and the wider EV market.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla Reopens Roadster Reservations Ahead of Public Reveal

Tesla has reopened reservations for the next-generation Roadster on its website, requiring a $5,000 payment and a $45,000 wire transfer within 10 days. The vehicle is set to be unveiled on October 1 in Waco, Texas. The Roadster's production model has a different design than the 2017 concept.

Why it matters: This move allows potential buyers to secure a spot in line for the vehicle, which is expected to have a different price and specifications than initially promised.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla Launches Vehicle-to-Home With Powerwall in Update 2026.27.10

Tesla has released software update 2026.27.10, which enables vehicle-to-home support for its Powerwall batteries, allowing owners to use their vehicle's battery to power their homes during outages. The feature is available for Powerwall 3 owners and can extend home backup by over 3 days. The update also allows for recharging of the Powerwall from the vehicle's battery.

Why it matters: This update simplifies the process of using Tesla's vehicle-to-home feature and eliminates the need for a separate Powershare Gateway for homes with existing Powerwall installations.

Electrek

Here’s all the dumb oil wars that electric cars have nothing to do with

The Strait of Hormuz has been closed to most ship traffic for six months due to a conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran, but electric cars have not been affected by the oil shortage. China has cut its oil imports and use drastically, offsetting the impact of the conflict on global oil prices. A pipeline in Saudi Arabia was also damaged in a drone attack, further disrupting oil transportation.

Why it matters: This highlights the decreasing reliance on oil as a transportation fuel, particularly in countries like China that are rapidly adopting electrified transportation.

Electrek

Climate XChange is giving away more EVs than ever before in its 11th Annual EV Raffle

Climate XChange is hosting its 11th Annual EV Raffle, offering three prizes: a fully customized EV up to $120,000, a $50,000 budget for a new EV, and a $10,000 Early Bird bonus. The raffle is open to anyone who buys tickets before October 30. The grand prize winner can choose any fully electric make and model on the market.

Why it matters: This raffle supports Climate XChange's efforts to promote cleaner and more affordable energy at the state level.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla Adds Passkey Support to Tesla App

Tesla has added passkey support to its mobile app, allowing users to log in with biometric authentication or device passcode instead of passwords. The feature is available in the latest iOS app update, version 4.61.0, and is expected to roll out to Android users soon. Passkeys are more secure than traditional passwords and resistant to phishing attempts.

Why it matters: This update provides an additional layer of security for Tesla account holders, making it easier to protect their accounts from unauthorized access.

Electrek

E-quipment highlight: 4,400 hp Wabtec FLXDrive electric locomotive [update]

BHP has been testing two 4,400 hp battery-electric locomotives, the Wabtec FLXDrive, on a dedicated track line at the Jimblebar iron ore mine in Australia. The locomotives have 7 MWh battery packs and advanced regenerative braking technology. BHP plans to add two more locomotives to the trial program.

Why it matters: This technology could lead to significant fuel savings and reduced emissions in heavy-haul rail operations.

Electrek

Swaptopus inches towards reality as CATL reveals new semi truck battery

CATL and Octopus Energy formed a joint venture called Swaptopus to build a European battery swap network for commercial trucks. The network will use CATL's new TECTRANS II battery system, which promises to eliminate long charge times and battery life concerns. The partnership aims to support 300,000+ electric trucks and unlock £30 billion in private investment.

Why it matters: This partnership could accelerate the adoption of electric trucks in Europe and reduce the region's dependence on imported oil.

InsideEVs

Is This An E-Bike Or A Moped? It Depends On Who You Ask

E-moto, a company that produces e-motorcycles, has gained popularity, but some users are questioning the classification of their products as e-bikes or mopeds. The company's design may not be conventional for e-bikes. Some users are unsure about the categorization of their products.

Why it matters: This classification can affect local regulations and laws regarding e-bike usage.

InsideEVs

Hyundai's Answer For The EV Slowdown: Building Thousands Of Robotaxis

Hyundai's CEO announced plans to build tens of thousands of Ioniq 5 robotaxis for Waymo. The robotaxis will be used for ride-hailing services. The Ioniq 5 is an electric vehicle model.

Why it matters: This move aims to address the slowdown in electric vehicle sales and increase the adoption of autonomous transportation.

InsideEVs

‘The Trend Is Clear’: How EVs Are Closing In On Gas Car Prices

The average price of a new electric vehicle (EV) is now only 9.4% higher than a gas-powered car. This gap is narrowing as incentives for EVs decrease. EV prices are approaching parity with gas cars.

Why it matters: This trend suggests that EVs may become a more viable option for consumers without government incentives.

Teslarati

NASA taps SpaceX for more astronaut missions as Boeing Starliner remains grounded

NASA awarded SpaceX a $946 million contract for three more astronaut missions to the International Space Station, extending the company's role as NASA's primary way of getting astronauts to and from orbit through 2030. The missions, Crew-15, 16, and 17, will be launched on Falcon 9 and Dragon spacecraft from Florida. The contract modification brings the total value of SpaceX's Commercial Crew Transportation Capability contract to $5.92 billion across 17 flights.

Why it matters: This contract extension ensures a continued presence of SpaceX in NASA's astronaut transportation program, regardless of the status of Boeing's Starliner spacecraft.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla FSD v14.3.10 Release Notes (Update 2026.27.10)

Tesla has released FSD v14.3.10 with Vehicle-to-Home with Powerwall support for Cybertruck, improved Full Self-Driving (FSD) capabilities, and other features. The update includes upgrades to the FSD neural network, improved reaction time, and enhanced safety features. FSD v14.3.10 also adds new features such as parking options on the map and distance traveled in FSD without intervention.

Why it matters: This update improves the capabilities of Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) system, enabling it to better handle various driving scenarios and providing users with more features and functionality.

Electrek

It’s finally here: Porsche puts wireless EV charging into production [video]

Porsche has introduced wireless charging for its Cayenne Electric SUV, allowing drivers to charge the vehicle by parking it over a charging pad. The system pairs a pad on the underside of the vehicle with a ground pad installed in the parking space. The charging rate is up to 11 kW with an efficiency of about 90%.

Why it matters: This technology could make electric vehicle ownership more convenient for Porsche owners.

Electrek

New self-loading tech for bulk cargo vessels cuts freight emissions in HALF

The MV Yampu, a 125-meter bulk cargo vessel, has been launched with a self-loading and unloading system, reducing emissions by 40% and fuel use by 25% compared to its predecessor. The ship is powered by a diesel-electric drive system and a 131-ton marine battery system. The vessel will transport 2.7 million tonnes of raw limestone annually between Australia's Gulf St. Vincent and a cement factory in Adelaide.

Why it matters: The MV Yampu's design and technology could serve as a model for reducing emissions in the maritime industry.

Not a Tesla App

How Tesla Improved Automatic Navigation in Update 2026.26

Tesla's Automatic Navigation system has been improved in the 2026.26 software update, allowing it to better predict destinations based on habits and routines. The system now considers time of day, day of the week, and location to suggest routes. The update also includes a new interface for displaying suggested destinations.

Why it matters: This update improves the user experience by providing more accurate and personalized navigation suggestions.

Electrek

Toyota’s new electric SUVs are catching on, with nearly 5,000 sold in August

Toyota led US new EV sales growth in August with 4,964 units sold, up 35% from July, and its electric SUVs accounted for nearly 5,000 sales. The average transaction price for a new EV fell to $54,754 in August, down 1.3% from July and 2.8% from the year prior. The price gap between EVs and gas cars narrowed to $4,847, or 9.7%.

Why it matters: The narrowing price gap between EVs and gas cars may make electric vehicles more appealing to consumers.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla's Upcoming Full Self-Driving Features

Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) software is set to receive several new features, including natural language processing, pothole avoidance, and personalized parking habits. The updates will allow drivers to interact with their vehicles more naturally and make the driving experience more comfortable. The company is also working on a major upgrade to the FSD system, FSD v15, which will increase the neural network's parameters by a factor of ten.

Why it matters: These updates will improve the overall driving experience and make Tesla's FSD system more user-friendly and effective.

InsideEVs

What If We're Thinking About EV Charging All Wrong?

A podcast episode discussed various electric vehicle topics, including curbside charging, the Tesla Roadster 2.0, the Mercedes GLC, and the Ford Fathom.

Why it matters: This podcast episode provides insights into the latest developments in the electric vehicle industry.

Electrek

Want to get off gas? Learn how at Drive Electric Month events across the US

Drive Electric Month continues with over 150 events across the US and Canada, offering opportunities for prospective EV buyers to learn from EV owners and network with others. Events will be held in most US states and will cover topics such as EV ownership and charging. The events are organized by local EV advocates and range from small meetups to large festivals.

Why it matters: This event provides a platform for people to learn about electric vehicles and their experiences from owners, which can be helpful for those considering purchasing an EV.

Electrek

Hyundai warns the US may be next in line for a wave of cheaper Chinese EVs

Hyundai's CEO warned that the US may be next in line for a wave of cheaper Chinese electric vehicles, citing the UK as an example where Chinese brands have taken over the market. Chinese automakers like BYD are already 30-40% cheaper than comparable auto brands in some markets. The US imposes a 100% tariff on EV imports from China, but President Trump has suggested allowing Chinese automakers to sell in the US if the vehicles are built in the US.

Why it matters: The entry of Chinese electric vehicles into the US market could have significant economic implications for American automakers.

Electrek

Anker SOLIX E10 system sale starts from exclusive $3,799 low, Heybike ALPHA mid-drive e-bike $1,099 low, EcoFlow, more

Anker's SOLIX E10 Whole-Home Backup System is on sale for $3,799 with a free metal pad and AC generator adapter, down from $5,799. The Heybike ALPHA All-Terrain Mid-Drive e-bike is also on sale for $1,099, down from $1,799. EcoFlow's 3,072Wh DELTA 3 Ultra Plus Power Station with a 500W modular solar panel is on sale for $1,899, down from $2,799.

Why it matters: These deals offer significant savings on home backup systems, e-bikes, and portable power stations, which can be useful for those looking to prepare for power outages or off-grid living.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla FSD Cuts Collisions by 40% in Australia and NZ

Tesla's Full Self-Driving (Supervised) software has been used in Australia and New Zealand for a year, resulting in a 40% reduction in collisions compared to manual driving. The software was launched in the region in September 2025 and has been used for 160 million kilometers of driving. The data shows a decrease in various safety events, including automatic emergency braking, harsh braking, and horn usage.

Why it matters: The data provides evidence of the safety benefits of Tesla's Full Self-Driving software, which can inform regulatory decisions and wider adoption of the technology.

InsideEVs

'Can't Be Done By One Company': This Startup Is Rallying A Team To Bring Solid-State Batteries To Life

Factorial, a startup, is working with multiple battery companies to develop solid-state batteries. The goal is to create a more efficient and safer alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries. The collaboration aims to overcome the technical challenges associated with solid-state batteries.

Why it matters: This collaboration could lead to the development of more efficient and safer batteries for electric vehicles.

Electrek

BMW begins iX3 deliveries early in the US as demand surges

BMW has begun delivering the iX3 electric SUV in the US earlier than expected, with some customers receiving their vehicles as early as September 16, 2026. The company has seen strong demand for the vehicle, with over 100,000 orders worldwide. The iX3 features a range of up to 434 miles and a 400 kW DC charging capacity.

Why it matters: The early delivery of the iX3 suggests that BMW's electric SUV is in high demand, which could be a positive sign for the company's electric vehicle sales.

Electrek

XPeng shops its self-driving tech to automakers — Tesla found no takers

XPeng is trying to license its self-driving and smart-cockpit systems to automakers, suppliers, and software firms, following a deal with Volkswagen. The company has already seen interest from potential customers, including foreign software developers and auto suppliers. XPeng's approach to self-driving technology includes a redundant safety layer that uses sensors in addition to cameras.

Why it matters: This development could be a significant opportunity for XPeng to generate high-margin revenue from its self-driving technology.

InsideEVs

Congress Advances Bill That Would Force Your EV To Have AM Radio

The US House of Representatives passed a bill requiring automakers to install AM radio in all vehicles sold in the US, including electric vehicles. The bill aims to ensure that all vehicles have a radio that can receive AM signals. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.

Why it matters: This bill could impact the future of vehicle design and the types of features included in new cars.

Electrek

Volkswagen’s EV van drove through 92 countries to set a new Guinness World Record

Volkswagen's ID. Buzz electric van completed a 99,767 km journey across 92 countries, setting a new Guinness World Record for the most countries visited in a continuous journey by an electric vehicle. The trip took 445 days and required over 300 charging cycles. The van's high-voltage battery retained 95.75% state of health after the journey.

Why it matters: This achievement demonstrates the feasibility of long-distance electric vehicle travel and highlights the benefits of electric vehicles in terms of reduced maintenance and lower emissions.

Electrek

144 Tesla Megapacks power Australia’s first 8-hour grid battery

Australia's first 8-hour grid battery, powered by 144 Tesla Megapacks, has been activated in New South Wales. The 50 MW / 400 MWh battery can discharge for eight hours, four times longer than typical Australian grid batteries. The battery is paired with a solar farm and is designed to store energy during the day and release it in the evening.

Why it matters: This battery demonstrates a new approach to grid storage that can help stabilize the grid and enable the transition to renewable energy.

InsideEVs

Same Battery Size, Different Range: VW ID. Polo Takes On Renault 5

A Volkswagen ID. Polo was tested on a European road trip with a highway-heavy route. The electric vehicle used less energy per mile compared to other electric vehicles. The ID. Polo also required less time to charge.

Why it matters: This comparison highlights the potential differences in real-world range and charging efficiency between electric vehicles with the same battery size.