mrlloyd.net's Tech Brief

Tesla & Electric Vehicles

Tesla, autonomy, charging and the wider EV market.

Teslarati

Tesla expands Robotaxi geofence in Houston with an ode to SpaceX merger

Tesla expanded its Robotaxi service area in Houston, Texas, increasing the service area and introducing a new rocket-shaped boundary. The expansion is part of Tesla's pattern of starting with controlled validation zones before widening coverage. The service is now available in six cities, including Austin, Dallas, and Miami.

Why it matters: This expansion provides more residents in Houston with access to Tesla's unsupervised Robotaxi service, which is a key step towards the company's goal of achieving widespread autonomous transportation.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla Robotaxi App Now Supports iPad, iPhone Duo and Improved Live Activities

Tesla has released an updated version of its Robotaxi app that supports iPad, iPhone Duo, and Android tablets and foldables, with a layout designed for larger screens. The app now also features improved Live Activities on iOS, including color-coded ride assignments and a live progress bar. The update is available in version 26.10.3 and later.

Why it matters: This update improves the user experience for Tesla's Robotaxi service, making it easier to book and track rides on larger devices.

Electrek

BYD opens pre-orders for its first luxury electric SUV with over 1,000 km CLTC range

BYD has opened pre-orders for its new luxury electric SUV, the Denza N8, with a range of over 1,000 km under CLTC conditions. The Denza N8 is available to pre-order in China, with prices not yet revealed. The SUV features a 30-inch infotainment screen, panoramic head-up display, and advanced safety features.

Why it matters: The Denza N8's long range and luxury features make it a notable addition to the electric vehicle market.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla and SpaceX Form Special Committees to Discuss Potential Merger

Tesla and SpaceX have formed special committees to discuss a potential merger, with Elon Musk stating that he cannot participate in the talks due to being a conflicted party. The committees have not agreed on terms for any transaction, and there is no guarantee that a deal will be reached. A merger would require shareholder approval at both companies, which is considered a high hurdle at Tesla.

Why it matters: The potential merger could have significant implications for investors and stakeholders in both companies.

Electrek

Volkswagen gets L3 autonomous driving test permit in China, eyes 2027

Volkswagen Group China has received a permit to test Level 3 autonomous driving on public roads in Hefei, China, with testing already underway. The permit allows for large-scale driving data collection in the city. Volkswagen aims to achieve Level 3 technology readiness in China by 2027.

Why it matters: This permit is a significant step towards Volkswagen's goal of deploying Level 3 autonomous driving technology in China, a key market for the company.

InsideEVs

Chery Joins China’s EV Charging Race With A Bold Promise

Chery, a Chinese automaker, has announced a new battery that can charge from 10% to 97% in under seven minutes. The company claims this is a significant improvement over current charging times. The new battery is part of Chery's efforts to expand its electric vehicle offerings.

Why it matters: This development could make long-distance electric vehicle travel more practical for Chinese drivers.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla App Lead Talks Upcoming Features: Mac App, More Vehicle Controls and Immersive Powerwall View

Tesla app lead Alex Guichet discussed upcoming features, including an immersive Powerwall view and a Mac app, which will bring the app closer to the in-car experience. The app's latest update has already added ambient background lighting and reflections to vehicle visualizations on larger screens. The team is also working on more granular music controls and improved destination adding.

Why it matters: These updates aim to enhance the user experience and make the Tesla app feel more like the in-car interface.

Electrek

Range Energy shows how its eTrailer saves almost as much as a Tesla Semi

Range Energy published a white paper comparing the cost savings of its eTrailer and Tesla's Tesla Semi, finding that the eTrailer saves almost as much as the Tesla Semi in most scenarios. The analysis focused on refrigerated trailer units, also known as reefers, and considered various charging scenarios. The study found that the eTrailer can save fleets money, with the Tesla Semi offering slightly better savings in some scenarios.

Why it matters: The study provides a practical comparison of two electrification options for fleets, helping them make informed decisions about their energy costs.

Electrek

All aboard! Massachusetts is getting 10 new electric transit trains

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) has approved the purchase of 20 new electric transit trains from Siemens, which will replace aging locomotives. The new trains will be a mix of diesel-powered hybrid electric and battery-electric units. Delivery is expected to begin in 2029, with all 20 trains in service by 2030.

Why it matters: This upgrade will improve the reliability and efficiency of the MBTA's public transit system.

Electrek

Amflow launches two powerful new electric bikes, including its first SUV-style e-bike

Amflow has released two new electric bikes: the TL Carbon, a SUV-style e-bike, and the PR Carbon series, which features a removable battery. The TL Carbon is designed for daily commuting and off-road adventures, while the PR Carbon series is available in two models with varying levels of power. Both bikes are powered by Avinox mid-drive motor systems and have a high capacity battery.

Why it matters: These new e-bikes offer a range of options for riders who want a powerful and practical electric bike for everyday use.

Teslarati

Tesla Cybercabs take over Austin’s F1 weekend

Tesla's Cybercabs swarmed Austin's F1 Grand Prix, with a record 1,250 sightings on Saturday, and provided rides to and from the circuit until 1 a.m. on Sunday. The fleet handled the increased demand without announcing the expanded service in advance. Tesla's Robotaxi service area wrapped around the track, with ride requests open until 1 a.m. on Sunday.

Why it matters: This event showcases Tesla's Robotaxi service's ability to handle large-scale events and increased demand.

Not a Tesla App

First Look at Tesla's Roadster New User Interface[VIDEO]

Tesla has shared a walkthrough of the new Roadster's user interface, which is inspired by fighter jet cockpits and features a retro-futuristic design aesthetic. The UI is centered around the driver and includes a main menu with various settings and modes. The interface reacts to each setting, providing a visualization of the car's systems and features.

Why it matters: The new UI design may provide a more immersive and engaging driving experience for Tesla Roadster owners.

Electrek

XCMG debuts new, fully autonomous electric terminal tractor [video]

XCMG has debuted a new, fully autonomous electric terminal tractor called the SDA411, which has no cabin and is designed for unmanned logistics. The vehicle features an L4 autonomous tech stack and a 360° perception system for navigation and obstacle avoidance. A video shows the SDA411 navigating around XCMG's campus and making emergency stops.

Why it matters: The SDA411 could help address the shortage of truck drivers in the industry by allowing experienced operators to oversee multiple vehicles and take on supervisory roles.

Electrek

Battery electric, solar-powered reefer units reach their first customers

Wickham Freight Lines, a family-owned transport company in Australia, has taken delivery of the first regular production solar-powered electric trailer refrigeration unit (TRU). The unit, developed by Sunswap Endurance, can keep food and pharmaceuticals cold in transit without burning diesel fuel. The company tested the unit on a 1,670 km route and found it performed beyond expectations.

Why it matters: This technology has the potential to reduce carbon emissions and noise pollution from refrigerated transportation, which is critical for hauling fresh food and flowers.

Teslarati

Tesla makes good on its Cybercab promise in just two weeks

Tesla has added a rear camera view and quiet mode to its Cybercab, allowing passengers to see what's behind the vehicle and darken the screen. The features were implemented in just two weeks after a rider requested them. The changes fill a gap in the Cybercab's design, which lacks a rear window and mirrors.

Why it matters: This update provides passengers with a sense of security and control over their in-ride experience.

InsideEVs

Chinese Auto Giant Chery Wants To Crack The U.S. Market. It Thinks Detroit Could Help

Chery, a Chinese auto giant, is considering entering the US market despite a ban on cars made with Chinese hardware and software. The company believes a US entry could be possible with the help of Detroit-based companies. Chery is looking for partnerships to overcome the ban.

Why it matters: This move could lead to new business opportunities for US companies and potentially increase competition in the US auto market.

InsideEVs

The Entegra Coach Embark Is An Electric RV Without The Range Anxiety

The Entegra Coach Embark is a $400,000 electric recreational vehicle (RV) designed to address range anxiety. It features a large battery pack and charging system. The RV is marketed as a luxury product.

Why it matters: This product may appeal to environmentally conscious consumers who want to own an RV without the environmental impact of traditional gas-powered vehicles.

InsideEVs

Slate’s Bare-Bones Electric Truck Surprised This Early Reviewer

An early reviewer drove an unfinished prototype of Slate's electric truck and found it to have surprising comfort and punch. The reviewer noted some rough edges. The truck is still in development.

Why it matters: This review provides insight into the development of Slate's electric truck, which may interest those following the company or electric vehicle news.

Electrek

E-quipment highlight: the highest-rated mowers on Amazon are ELECTRIC (2026)

The highest-rated lawn mowers on Amazon are electric for the second year in a row, with top brands EGO Power, Greenworks, and Worx offering high-performance and efficient models. These electric mowers offer quieter operation, reduced emissions, and lower maintenance compared to gas-powered mowers. They also provide longer runtime and more features such as mulching and bagging capabilities.

Why it matters: This shift towards electric lawn mowers is significant for consumers looking for a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective option for their outdoor maintenance needs.

Electrek

Police pull over two men riding an electric couch down the street

Two men in Charlotte, North Carolina, were stopped by police while riding a couch powered by two Lime electric scooters down a public street. The couch was apparently attached to the scooters in a way that allowed the riders to steer it. The incident was documented by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department on social media.

Why it matters: The incident highlights the potential risks and safety concerns associated with unconventional uses of electric scooters.

Not a Tesla App

NHTSA Proposes Cyan Lights for Driverless Cars Like Cybercab

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has proposed a new rule to update federal lighting standards for autonomous vehicles, including the optional use of cyan 'ADS marker lamps' to indicate self-driving mode. The proposed rule would also relax restrictions on headlight layouts and allow for integrated headlights to be tested at various voltages. The changes are part of a broader effort to modernize safety standards for autonomous vehicles.

Why it matters: The proposed rule could provide a clearer visual indicator for pedestrians and other drivers to recognize when a vehicle is operating in autonomous mode, potentially improving safety.

Electrek

Volkswagen’s new electric Jetta offers 285 miles of range for under $12K

Volkswagen's Jetta M6 electric sedan offers 285 miles of range for under $12,000 in the Chinese market, with three variants priced at $11,800, $12,000, and $12,500. The car features an 8.88-inch driver display, 15.6-inch central touchscreen, and advanced ADAS. The 42.9 kWh battery and 113 kW electric motor provide an 8.3-second 0-62 mph time.

Why it matters: This affordable electric sedan could be a viable option for budget-conscious buyers in the Chinese market.

Not a Tesla App

New Tesla Roadster Now on Display at LA’s Petersen Museum

The 2028 Tesla Roadster Thrust Prototype is on display at the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles from October 24 to 27. The exhibit is the first public opportunity to see the car since its unveiling at SpaceX's test site in Texas. The Roadster is part of a series of four versions, with the Thrust trim featuring a 200-liter cold-gas thruster system.

Why it matters: This display provides a rare opportunity for the public to see the new Tesla Roadster up close before its production begins in 2028.

Not a Tesla App

Intel to Make Mystery Chip for Tesla: AI6 or Something New?

Intel has partnered with Tesla to produce a chip using its 14A manufacturing process, with the exact chip type unknown. This is separate from Tesla's plans to build its own chip factory, Terafab. The partnership is seen as a way for Intel to prove its competitiveness in the cutting-edge chip market.

Why it matters: This partnership could be a significant win for Intel as it tries to compete with TSMC and Samsung in the cutting-edge chip market.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla Updates App Again, Introduces Fixes to iPad, iPhone Duo and Android Foldables

Tesla has released an update to its app, which includes improvements to support for the iPad, iPhone Duo, and foldable phones, as well as various bug fixes and new features. The update provides more detailed information on how the app uses location data and adds support for tablets and foldables. The app now spans the full width of the device on most screens, with improved visualizations and a more streamlined workflow.

Why it matters: This update improves the user experience for Tesla owners with newer devices, making it easier to access and use the app's features.

Electrek

Chinese EVs found back door into Western car markets – at 40% off MSRP

Used Chinese EVs are being imported into Western markets, offering prices up to 40% lower than their original MSRP, due to tariffs on new Chinese EVs. Pre-owned vehicle sales to EU customers have grown 280% year over year. Western automakers are struggling to compete with the low-cost, high-tech Chinese EVs.

Why it matters: This trend may force Western automakers to reevaluate their pricing strategies and consider offering more affordable options to remain competitive.

InsideEVs

Rivian Buys Synthetic Data Startup To Boost Its Autonomy Ambitions

Rivian has acquired a synthetic data startup to enhance its autonomous driving capabilities. The acquisition aims to help Rivian simulate edge cases in real-world scenarios. This move is part of Rivian's efforts to advance its autonomous driving technology.

Why it matters: This acquisition could improve the safety and efficiency of Rivian's autonomous vehicles by allowing for more realistic simulation testing.

Electrek

NHTSA proposes cyan lights for robotaxis, following Mercedes/China

The NHTSA has proposed using cyan-colored lights to identify vehicles operating autonomously, building on a suggestion from Mercedes. The proposal aims to address concerns about emergency response and vehicle recognition. The draft regulation would allow for optional inclusion of cyan lights, but would not require them.

Why it matters: This proposal could help emergency responders and other drivers recognize when a vehicle is operating autonomously, improving safety and reducing confusion.

InsideEVs

VW's First Car Made With Xpeng Isn't Popular. Here's Why It Matters

Volkswagen's ID. Unyx 08, a car co-developed with Xpeng, has struggled to gain traction in the Chinese market, selling fewer than 250 units per month. The car was intended to help Volkswagen improve its sales in China. Volkswagen's partnership with Xpeng aimed to leverage the Chinese company's expertise in electric vehicles.

Why it matters: This underperformance highlights the challenges Volkswagen faces in the competitive Chinese electric vehicle market.