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Tesla & Electric Vehicles

Tesla, autonomy, charging and the wider EV market.

Electrek

Open source semi: Windrose puts its electric truck online, for free

Windrose has made the CAD models for its electric truck's 1,023 parts available online for free, allowing anyone to access and potentially manufacture replacement parts. This move is part of the company's effort to increase transparency and customer trust. The models are available in native PRT format, along with an assembly tree and manifest.

Why it matters: This move could give customers more control over the service life of their vehicles and reduce the risk of being left without support from the manufacturer.

InsideEVs

Toyota's Hydrogen Pickup Is Coming In 2028 With 248-Mile Range

Toyota plans to release a hydrogen fuel cell version of its Hilux pickup truck in 2028, with an estimated range of 248 miles. The vehicle will have a towing capacity of around 5,500 pounds. The exact specifications and features of the truck are not yet detailed.

Why it matters: This development is significant for those interested in hydrogen fuel cell technology and its potential applications in the automotive industry.

Electrek

Solid-state battery maker Factorial secures another big partnership

Factorial Energy, a US-based solid-state battery maker, has partnered with Mitsui Kinzoku to scale up the production of sulfide-based solid electrolytes. The partnership will enable the mass production of solid electrolytes at a dedicated plant in Japan. This collaboration brings together Factorial's Solstice platform with Mitsui Kinzoku's electrolyte technology.

Why it matters: This partnership is significant for the development of commercial solid-state batteries, which could improve the energy density and charging speed of electric vehicles.

InsideEVs

Volvo Is Planning 13 New Cars This Decade In Its Biggest Product Push Yet

Volvo is planning to launch 13 new cars in the next decade, including electric vehicles and latest-generation hybrids. The new lineup will be the largest product push in the company's history. The revamp is expected to start immediately.

Why it matters: This expansion will give consumers more options in the electric and hybrid vehicle market.

Teslarati

NHTSA just escalated its Tesla Cybercab investigation in a big way

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has escalated its investigation into Tesla's Cybercab by issuing a Special Order, requiring Tesla to provide sworn answers to 21 questions about the vehicle's certification by September 30. The order is a more formal and legally binding request than the initial audit. The investigation focuses on how Tesla certified the Cybercab as compliant with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, particularly regarding the lack of a steering wheel, pedals, and mirrors.

Why it matters: This development could potentially expose Tesla to significant civil penalties, up to $139 million, if NHTSA finds the certification was flawed.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla Grok Reminders: What They Are and How They Work

Tesla's Grok assistant can now set reminders tied to specific locations, allowing users to automate tasks such as picking up groceries or charging their car. The reminders can be set to trigger when the user arrives at a destination or when they visit a location regularly. Users can also manage their reminders by listing and editing them through voice commands.

Why it matters: This feature can help users stay organized and on top of their daily tasks, especially for those with busy schedules or multiple daily commutes.

Electrek

Out of this world performance at down to Earth prices: Ausom’s AWESOME fall sale

Ausom is offering a sale on six of its electric scooter models, with discounts ranging from $130 to $200 off the regular price. The sale includes the Gosoul 2, L2 Max Dual Motor, DT2 Pro, Gosoul 2 Pro Dual Motor, K20 Pro Dual Motor, and F1 Max models. The sale runs from now until September 30th.

Why it matters: The sale provides an opportunity for customers to purchase Ausom's high-performance electric scooters at a lower price point.

Teslarati

Tesla uber bull Ron Baron says ‘the time to buy the stock is now’

Tesla bull Ron Baron recommends buying the company's stock, citing the growing adoption of Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology, which has seen a 56% year-over-year increase in active subscriptions to 1.48 million. Baron's firm, Baron Capital, has made significant investments in Tesla and SpaceX, generating $30 billion in profits for clients. Baron also expressed support for Elon Musk's leadership and a potential merger between Tesla and SpaceX.

Why it matters: This recommendation from a prominent investor may influence the stock market's perception of Tesla's value and potential for growth.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla Launches Model Y L Accessories in the U.S.

Tesla has launched a range of accessories for the Model Y L in the US, including interior liners, sunshades, and a crossbar system. The accessories are available for purchase on the Tesla Shop. The first deliveries of the Model Y L are expected to begin later this month.

Why it matters: These accessories can help owners customize and protect their vehicles, and may also enhance their functionality and convenience.

Electrek

Tesla brings Cybercab to China, rules out sale and robotaxi service

Tesla is showcasing its Cybercab in China, but the company has ruled out selling the vehicle in the Chinese market or launching a driverless ride-hailing service. The Cybercab will be on display in two malls in Beijing and Shanghai from September 17 to 27 and September 21, respectively. The car has no steering wheel and no pedals, making it unsuitable for sale or commercial use in China.

Why it matters: This move highlights the challenges Tesla faces in deploying its autonomous technology in regulated markets like China.

InsideEVs

The Mercedes CLA Is One Of America's Quickest Charging EVs: Test

Mercedes-Benz tested the CLA's charging capabilities, finding it to be one of the quickest charging electric vehicles in the US. The test focused on the car's range and efficiency during a road trip. The CLA's performance in these areas was deemed satisfactory.

Why it matters: This information can help potential buyers understand the CLA's capabilities for long-distance driving.

InsideEVs

The Aventon Level 3 Made Me Fall Back In Love With E-Biking

Aventon's Level 3 e-bike is a commuter e-bike from a popular American brand. It is easy to recommend. The article does not provide further details on the bike's features or specifications.

Why it matters: This review may be helpful for readers considering purchasing a commuter e-bike.

Electrek

Kia is offering big discounts on the EV9, with over $15,000 off at some dealers

Kia is offering discounts on the EV9, with some dealers offering over $15,000 off the sticker price. The discounts are available on both the Light Short Range and Long Range versions of the vehicle. The EV9 is Kia's largest electric SUV, with a starting price of $54,900.

Why it matters: The discounts on the EV9 may make it more competitive with other electric vehicles in the market.

InsideEVs

Tesla Says The Cybercab Is Street Legal. Regulators Want To Know How.

Tesla's Cybercab has been deemed street legal by the company, but regulators are seeking clarification on the self-certification process. The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has asked Tesla to provide more information by the end of the month. The agency wants to understand how the Cybercab meets safety standards.

Why it matters: This development may impact the availability and adoption of the Cybercab in the US market.

Electrek

ENGWE E26 3.0 full suspension e-bike with $343 FREE bundle at new $1,499 low + Eagle electric dirt bike new $899 low, Anker, more

ENGWE's E26 3.0 Dual-Motor Full Suspension All-Terrain e-bike is now available for $1,499 with a $343 bundle, a $900 markdown from its original price. The ENGWE Eagle Electric Dirt Bike is also discounted to $899 with a free bundle. Anker's eufyCam C37 4K Wireless Solar Security Camera is available for $99.99, a $30 discount from its original price. Anker's eufyCam S4 4K Triple-Lens Bullet-PTZ Solar Security Camera 4-Cam Kit is available for $1,194.98, a $455 discount from its original price.

Why it matters: These deals offer significant discounts on high-end e-bikes and security cameras, making them more accessible to consumers.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla Roadster: What We Know and What to Expect

Tesla has set an October 1 event for the reveal of the second-generation Roadster, after years of delays and hype. The event will feature a live demonstration of the car's capabilities, rather than pre-recorded videos or animations. The Roadster is expected to have impressive acceleration and aerodynamic features, including a patented F1-inspired aero system and a one-piece composite seat.

Why it matters: The reveal of the Roadster will provide insight into Tesla's latest advancements in electric vehicle technology and its plans for the future of high-performance EVs.

Electrek

BYD undercuts the Tesla Model 3 with its new Formula S EV, starting at under $29,000

BYD has launched the Formula S series, a new line of electric sedans and grand touring models, with prices starting at under $29,000. The series includes five variants, with ranges of up to 559 miles on a single charge. The vehicles feature premium extras and BYD's latest Blade Batteries and Flash Charging system.

Why it matters: The Formula S series offers a more affordable alternative to the Tesla Model 3, which starts at $35,000 in China.

Electrek

Tesla’s new ‘Accordion’ Supercharger could speed up its slow buildout

Tesla has deployed its first 'Accordion' Supercharger, a pre-assembled charging unit that can install 16 stalls on a single truck and is 20% cheaper than a conventional site. The unit is designed to be installed between parking spaces, allowing for faster deployment in urban and retail lots. Tesla aims to pre-assemble all Superchargers in a factory.

Why it matters: This new deployment method could help Tesla speed up its Supercharger buildout, which has been slower in recent years.

Electrek

Volkswagen’s new electric hot hatch delivers more power than the Golf GTI [Images]

Volkswagen has unveiled the ID.3 GTI, a new electric hot hatch with 322 horsepower and 402 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful series-production GTI ever. The ID.3 GTI can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 5.6 seconds. The vehicle features a rear-wheel-drive layout, adaptive DCC sports chassis, and a new GTI mode.

Why it matters: The ID.3 GTI's performance and features make it a notable addition to the electric vehicle market, particularly for fans of the GTI brand.

Electrek

Rivian’s ALSO e-bikes are finally hitting the road – but not for frustrated customers

Rivian spin-off ALSO is launching a 'Test Spin Fall Tour' to showcase its TM-B electric bikes in cities across the US, while its earliest customers are still waiting for their pre-ordered bikes, which were originally expected to be delivered in spring 2026.

Why it matters: The delay in delivery of ALSO's TM-B e-bikes highlights the challenges of manufacturing complex, high-tech products and the importance of clear communication with customers.

Teslarati

SpaceX’s next Starship launch is about to attempt its biggest leap yet

SpaceX is planning to launch Starship Flight 14 on September 22, aiming to reach real orbit for the first time. The mission will carry a batch of Starlink V3 satellites and test the vehicle's orbital insertion capabilities. The launch window opens at 7:15 a.m. Central time at Starbase in South Texas.

Why it matters: This flight marks a significant step towards SpaceX's goal of establishing a reusable orbital launch system.