Tesla & Electric Vehicles

Tesla, autonomy, charging and the wider EV market.

TeslaratiOct 23

The Starship moon landing number NASA and Elon Musk can’t agree on

NASA's Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel estimated 22 Starship launches are needed for a Moon landing, but Elon Musk disputes this, predicting 6-8 launches will be sufficient. The disagreement stems from differing estimates of the amount of propellant needed for the mission. Musk's estimate assumes a more capable Starship rocket than the one NASA is currently working with.

Why it matters: The number of Starship launches required for a Moon landing affects the mission's timeline, cost, and risk of delays or accidents.

ElectrekOct 23

Tesla Q4 numbers, more product delays, and some REAL EV charging innovation

Tesla's Q3 earnings call revealed more product delays, including Full Self Driving, which is still at least six months away. Porsche, BMW, and Liebherr announced innovations to speed up EV charging. The companies are working on new technologies to eliminate range anxiety.

Why it matters: These developments could impact the adoption and usability of electric vehicles.

ElectrekOct 23

Another megawatt-level charger enters China: 300 miles in 5 minutes

Chery has announced a 1.44 megawatt charging system that can deliver 500km (311 miles) of range in 5 minutes. The system, called CheryMind, uses AI to adjust charging power based on temperature changes. Chery plans to install 100 chargers in 10 Chinese cities and 20,000 stations worldwide by 2029.

Why it matters: This development highlights the ongoing competition among Chinese companies to create faster and more efficient charging systems for electric vehicles.

TeslaratiOct 22

Tesla’s secretive “Project Crystal Sun” gets a big green light in Texas

Fort Bend County commissioners approved four incentive agreements for Tesla's proposed $10.1 billion solar factory in Texas, which is part of the company's 'Project Crystal Sun'. The agreements include tax incentives and other benefits. The project would create 9,712 permanent jobs by 2033 and start commercial operations in 2029.

Why it matters: The approval brings Tesla one step closer to deciding on a location for the solar factory, which could have significant economic implications for the region.

ElectrekOct 22

sonnen files for insolvency in Germany as US sales double

Sonnen, a residential battery storage maker, has filed for insolvency in Germany, but its US business has seen sales double and is expanding. The company's German business has filed for insolvency, affecting around 400 employees. Sonnen USA will continue to support its existing customers, but the company's German restructuring may impact its US operation and customers.

Why it matters: The insolvency filing raises questions about the future of sonnen's manufacturing, software support, and service for its customers.

ElectrekOct 22

Tesla skipped the most important shareholder question on its earnings call

Tesla skipped a question about when Hardware 3 owners will receive a free computer upgrade for unsupervised 'Full Self-Driving' on its Q3 2026 earnings call, despite it being the fifth most upvoted question. The company answered other questions, including ones about Optimus and FSD mapping, but did not address the HW3 upgrade. Tesla's head of AI, Ashok Elluswamy, did provide a new timeline for unsupervised FSD in customer cars, saying it will come with FSD v15 and potentially in Q2 2027. However, this timeline does not apply to HW3 owners, who were promised unsupervised FSD but have not received it. Tesla has faced class actions and a collective claim over the issue in the US, China, and Australia, and has only submitted HW4 for FSD approval in Europe.

Why it matters: This omission may indicate that Tesla is avoiding a potentially costly and contentious issue with its HW3 owners, who were sold FSD on the promise of unsupervised driving capabilities.

ElectrekOct 22

BYD is about to launch this luxury electric SUV with 623 miles of range

BYD will open pre-orders for the Denza N8 EV next week, a luxury electric SUV with a CLTC range of over 623 miles. The vehicle features BYD's second-generation Blade Batteries and Flash Charging Technology. The Denza N8 EV will be available with a single rear-wheel-drive or a tri-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain.

Why it matters: The Denza N8 EV's long range and advanced charging capabilities make it a competitive option for luxury electric SUV buyers.

TeslaratiOct 22

Tesla is building its own maps to fix Navigation issues

Tesla plans to develop its own maps to improve Navigation in its vehicles, aiming to reduce reliance on external data and provide more personalized routing. The new maps will be integrated with voice commands and learn drivers' preferences. Tesla's Head of AI, Ashok Elluswamy, expects the new maps to be available by the time the v15 release starts deploying to customers.

Why it matters: This move could improve the overall driving experience for Tesla owners, addressing a long-standing issue with the company's Full Self-Driving (FSD) system.

ElectrekOct 22

Seattle plans 200 curbside EV charging stations – and you can request one

Seattle plans to install up to 200 public curbside Level 2 EV charging stations by 2030, with residents able to request a charger near their home or apartment. The chargers will be available to the public and can add 12-30 miles of range per hour. The expansion is funded by a transportation levy approved in 2024.

Why it matters: This expansion aims to increase access to EV charging options for residents in Seattle, particularly in neighborhoods with limited charging infrastructure.

ElectrekOct 22

BMW is already discounting the new iX5 with a $1,000 loyalty bonus

BMW is offering a $1,000 loyalty discount for customers who purchase or lease a new iX5, which is set to go on sale in early 2027. The iX5 is the first fully electric BMW X5 and will be available in various powertrains, including battery electric and plug-in hybrid. The vehicle features a 144 kWh battery and a dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain.

Why it matters: This loyalty discount can help reduce the cost of purchasing a new iX5 for returning BMW customers.

InsideEVsOct 22

‘Propulsion-Agnostic’: GM Wants To Bring Tesla-Style Software Features To Its Gas SUVs, Too

General Motors plans to bring software features from its electric vehicles to its gas-powered SUVs, including security camera functionality and autonomous driving capabilities. The features will be part of GM's next-generation vehicles. This will be achieved through a 'propulsion-agnostic' approach.

Why it matters: This move could improve the overall user experience for GM's gas SUV owners and bring them closer to the features offered in its electric vehicles.

ElectrekOct 22

Tesla now says it needs its own maps for FSD after years of dismissing maps

Tesla is building its own maps to improve its Full Self-Driving (FSD) system, addressing issues with speed limits, parking, and route navigation. The company's AI-based mapping and navigation architecture will learn from its fleet and individual drivers' preferences. The new maps will start handling the beginning and end of trips with FSD v15 and take over navigation, parking, and destination handling over the following months.

Why it matters: This shift indicates that Tesla's reliance on cameras and AI alone may not be sufficient for reliable self-driving, and the company is adopting a more conventional approach to mapping.

Not a Tesla AppOct 22

Tesla Is Building Its Own AI-Based Maps, Will Begin Rolling Out In the Next Few Months With FSD v15

Tesla is developing its own AI-based mapping and navigation system, which will be integrated with Full Self-Driving (FSD) version 15. The new system will combine fleet data, personalized routing, and enable FSD voice control. The system will be a completely new architecture, not just another mapping solution.

Why it matters: This development could improve the accuracy and reliability of Tesla's FSD system, addressing issues such as speed limit recognition, parking, and route selection.

InsideEVsOct 22

Want The Best Range Rover? Get The Electric One: First Drive

The new electric Range Rover has been tested and found to be powerful, elegant, and capable. It is priced similarly to the gas-powered model. The electric model's performance and price make it a viable option for those considering a Range Rover.

Why it matters: This information is relevant to those in the market for a Range Rover and considering an electric option.

ElectrekOct 22

Ferrari Luce EV starts at $560,800 in the US, $80K less than expected

Ferrari's Luce electric car starts at $560,800 in the US, $80,000 less than the previously estimated $640,000. The price is based on the European price of €550,000, which includes VAT. The US price does not include state sales tax, which will be added on top.

Why it matters: This price drop may indicate that Ferrari is serious about selling its electric cars, despite the high price point.

InsideEVsOct 22

I Drove The Electric And Gas-Powered BMW X5. I Know Which One I'd Pick.

The BMW iX5 is an electric version of the X5, a luxury SUV. The author tested the iX5 and a gas-powered X5 to compare the two. The iX5 has a range of 373 miles on a single charge.

Why it matters: The comparison between the two vehicles may help potential buyers decide between an electric and gas-powered X5.

ElectrekOct 22

Kia believes it has a way to beat China’s cheap EVs in Canada

Kia is positioning its new lineup of affordable EVs, including the EV3, to compete with Chinese models in Canada by offering a value equation that includes tech and features. The EV3 starts at CAD $39,744 in Canada. Kia's COO believes the company's affordability and value proposition will help it stand out in the market.

Why it matters: This strategy could make Kia a more attractive option for Canadian consumers looking for affordable electric vehicles with desirable features.

ElectrekOct 22

Exclusive $500 savings hit Heybike’s 100-mile Hybrid e-bike + 45-pound Venus e-bike at new lows from $999, EcoFlow, more

Heybike's Hybrid Longest Range Commuter e-bike and Venus e-bike are now available at new lows of $1,199 and $999, respectively, with a $500 discount. EcoFlow's DELTA 3 Max power station with 2x 220W solar panels is also on sale for $1,379. Greenworks' 3,000 PSI electric pressure washer is at an annual low price. Various other deals are available, including e-bikes and power stations.

Why it matters: These deals can help readers save money on eco-friendly products for their daily routines.

InsideEVsOct 22

The Ferrari Luce Officially Starts At $560,800

Ferrari has announced the starting price of its first electric vehicle, the Luce, at $560,800. The price makes it one of the most expensive electric cars on the market. The Luce is Ferrari's first foray into electric vehicles.

Why it matters: This announcement provides insight into the pricing strategy of Ferrari's electric offerings.

TeslaratiOct 22

Tesla buyers are buying for Full Self-Driving and not for the car, data shows

Tesla reported a 20-percentage-point sequential increase in the Full Self-Driving (FSD) software attach rate in North America, reaching 75% of new vehicle deliveries. The attach rate is driven by the transition to a subscription model, which improves revenue visibility and margins. Active FSD subscriptions rose to 1.75 million, a 67% year-over-year increase.

Why it matters: This trend suggests that Tesla buyers are prioritizing FSD capabilities over the car itself, and may have implications for the company's future revenue and growth.

Not a Tesla AppOct 22

Tesla Q3 2026 Earnings Call Recap: Everything You Need to Know

Tesla held its Q3 2026 earnings call, discussing its product portfolio, including Full Self-Driving (FSD), Robotaxi, Cybercab, and Optimus. The company aims to build 5 million vehicles per year by 2030 and has set delivery records in several markets. FSD has over 1.7 million paid customers globally, with unsupervised FSD expected to roll out to customer vehicles in Q2 2027.

Why it matters: The updates provide insight into Tesla's plans for its autonomous driving technology and its expansion into new markets.

ElectrekOct 22

Volkswagen is launching its most affordable EV yet in 2027, starting at around €20,000

Volkswagen is launching a new electric car, the ID. EVERY1, in 2027, starting at around €20,000. The car is smaller and more affordable than the ID. Polo, with a length of 3,880 mm and a 37 kWh battery. The ID. EVERY1 will offer space for four passengers and a luggage compartment volume of 305 liters.

Why it matters: This new entry-level EV is significant for readers who are looking for an affordable electric car option.

ElectrekOct 22

Scania speeds up switch to silent semi trucks with Chinese production

Scania is accelerating its production of electric trucks in China, with plans to start manufacturing battery-powered trucks at its new Rugao assembly plant as soon as it receives a license. The plant, built last year, will serve China and other Asian markets and can produce both conventional diesel and electric trucks. Chinese electric semi-truck sales have jumped 80% in the first half of 2026 compared to 2025, and are on pace to account for over 30% of all heavy trucks sold this year.

Why it matters: This shift to electric trucks in China could have implications for the global trucking industry and the environment.

ElectrekOct 22

Tesla pushes Optimus deliveries to late 2027, says hands still a problem

Tesla has pushed back the delivery timeline for its Optimus humanoid robot to late 2027, citing issues with the robot's hands, durability, and AI. The company has started early production of Optimus on its high-volume line in Fremont, but it will take at least a year to reach a production rate of 20,000 units a week. Tesla is still working on solving the robot's AI architecture and hand design, which are the main areas of concern.

Why it matters: The delay in Optimus deliveries may impact the robot's adoption in industries that require humanoid robots, such as manufacturing and healthcare.

ElectrekOct 22

New Jersey may finally reverse its draconian e-bike law after massive backlash

New Jersey lawmakers have introduced a bill to reverse the state's e-bike law, which was implemented in July and required licensing, registration, and insurance for low-speed e-bikes. The proposed bill would remove these requirements for e-bikes with motors rated at 750W or less and a maximum speed of 20 mph. The move aims to restore bicycle-like treatment for these e-bikes, including throttle-equipped models.

Why it matters: The proposed change could help revive the state's e-bike industry, which has seen significant sales declines and business closures since the original law took effect.

ElectrekOct 22

Kia’s EV6 GT beat out the Tesla Model Y and BYD Sealion 7 in a German EV comparison test

Kia's EV6 GT ranked first overall in a German comparison test of high-performance electric vehicles, beating the Tesla Model Y Performance and BYD Sealion 7. The EV6 GT scored highest in three categories: safety, powertrain, and driving performance. It features a dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain and a 84 kWh battery with up to 279 miles of range.

Why it matters: The test results provide insight into the performance and capabilities of the Kia EV6 GT compared to other high-end electric vehicles.

Not a Tesla AppOct 22

Tesla Officially Begins Optimus Robot Production; Demo Coming Soon

Tesla has started production of its Optimus robots at its Fremont factory, with a planned capacity of 1 million units per year. The company is launching with its Optimus Gen 3 design, which will be upgraded to Gen 4 at Giga Texas. Tesla expects to reach a rate of 20,000 units per week within a year.

Why it matters: This development marks a significant step towards the commercialization of Tesla's Optimus robots, which are expected to be used for industrial tasks.

ElectrekOct 22

Fortescue is using KUKA welding robots to handle 6 MW charging cables [video]

Fortescue is using KUKA welding robots to handle 6 MW charging cables for its massive electric haul trucks in Australia's Pilbara region. The company has developed a 6 MW charging system with Liebherr, which requires massive, liquid-cooled copper cables that are too big and heavy for humans to handle. A $10 million grant from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency helped Fortescue develop and refine the KUKA robots for the task.

Why it matters: This development is significant for the mining industry, as it enables the efficient and safe charging of massive electric vehicles.

ElectrekOct 22

Tesla (TSLA) quietly cuts 2026 capex guidance to $20B

Tesla has lowered its 2026 capital expenditure forecast from over $25 billion to in excess of $20 billion. The company's Q3 10-Q filing revealed the change, which is driven by investments in compute infrastructure, data centers, and factory ramps. Tesla has spent $13.01 billion so far this year, with $7 billion still needed to reach the new target.

Why it matters: The capex cut suggests Tesla may be adjusting its spending plans for 2026, potentially due to changes in its business priorities or financial situation.

Not a Tesla AppOct 22

Tesla Says It's Trying to Get Cybercabs to Customers by the End of This Year

Tesla aims to produce 5 million vehicles per year by 2030 and is working to deliver the first Cybercabs to customers by the end of 2026. The company has been increasing its manufacturing capacity, with its factories operating at record rates. Tesla is planning to expand its Giga Berlin factory to 1 million vehicles per year and has filed plans for a new factory building and logistics hub at the site.

Why it matters: This development could impact the ride-hailing industry and the electric vehicle market as a whole, as Tesla's Cybercab could become a major player in the market.