Electrek.co

Electrek.co

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Electrek.co is a premier news destination dedicated to chronicling the significant shift from fossil fuel-powered transportation to electric mobility and the expansive clean energy ecosystems that support it. As an integral part of the esteemed 9to5 network, Electrek.co leverages its affiliation with sister sites like 9to5mac.com, 9to5Google.com, and 9to5Toys.com to provide comprehensive coverage.

This distributor is recognized for its in-depth reporting on electric vehicles, including exclusive content such as "Electrek Podcast: Tesla Battery Tech, Model 3 Price, Mercedes-Benz EQC, and More," "Xpeng's Tesla FSD Self-Driving Competitor Unedited Test Drive," and "Tesla Cybertruck Live Test Ride." Their expertise extends to emerging players and innovative products, as evidenced by features like "First Look at Also (Rivian) Tmb Ebike Launch" and "Ford Mustang Mach-E First Drive by Electrek."

Latest Additions

Showing 24 of 579 total titles. Page 15 of 25.

New Wheel-E Podcast! Biggest Electric Bike and Mobility EV Stories of 2021 and 2022

New Wheel-E Podcast! Biggest Electric Bike and Mobility EV Stories of 2021 and 2022

This episode of the Wheel-E podcast provides a comprehensive look at the electric bike and alternative mobility landscape of 2021, with a forward-look... ing perspective on 2022. The hosts delve into significant industry challenges, primarily the widespread supply chain and shipping issues that impacted e-bike availability, despite soaring demand. They highlight creative solutions by companies like Rad Power Bikes and Super73. The discussion also covers emerging vehicle categories, such as higher-powered electric motorcycles like the Saunder's Metacycle and the Vulcan Grunt off-road motorcycle, noting the blend between e-bikes and motorcycles. A significant portion is dedicated to affordable, often Alibaba-sourced electric vehicles, including a mini pickup truck and a Jeep-like vehicle, detailing their pros, cons, and the potential for low-speed vehicle (LSV) conversion. The episode concludes by exploring the trend towards high-speed e-bikes, regulatory challenges, and the future of battery technology and vehicle design in 2022, emphasizing larger batteries and versatile power solutions. less
Podcast: 2022 for Tesla and Electric Vehicles

Podcast: 2022 for Tesla and Electric Vehicles

This podcast episode focuses on the anticipated developments for Tesla and the broader EV market in 2022. The hosts emphasize that Tesla's primar... y focus will be on volume growth, particularly for the Model 3 and Model Y, driven by the ramp-up of new Gigafactories in Berlin and Texas. A critical secondary focus is the internal production of 4680 battery cells, essential for scaling production and enabling new vehicle architectures. While acknowledging Tesla's continued dominance in delivering compelling EVs at scale, the discussion also touches upon potential 'side projects' like the Cybertruck and FSD, with the latter's timeline remaining highly uncertain despite Elon Musk's optimistic projections. The episode also highlights concerns about Tesla's quality control, suggesting internal competition between factories could drive improvements. Beyond Tesla, the hosts preview several anticipated EV launches for 2022, including the BMW iX, Cadillac Lyriq, Fisker Ocean, Ford F-150 Lightning, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, and others, noting their potential impact and production challenges. less
Podcast: Tesla V11 Holiday Update, Tesla Roadster, Electric Snowmobile, and More

Podcast: Tesla V11 Holiday Update, Tesla Roadster, Electric Snowmobile, and More

This episode of the Electrek Podcast covers Tesla's significant v11 software update, bringing a refreshed UI with features like persistent dark m... ode and automatic blind-spot camera integration to Model 3 and Model Y. The update also introduces new entertainment options, including TikTok and updated games, alongside minor cold-weather improvements. A rare blog post detailed feature availability across different Tesla models and generations, noting limitations for older S and X vehicles. The podcast also touches on Tesla's controversial practice of selling new vehicles with aged 2017 battery packs, leading to reduced range, and discusses a viral incident of a Tesla owner destroying their car due to a high battery replacement cost. Additionally, the removal of Roadster pricing and reservation availability is noted, with a projected timeline placing it after Cybertruck production. Finally, the discussion covers Tesla's application for Supercharger stations with CCS connectors in Texas, hinting at broader network opening in the US, and Elon Musk's stock sales, reframing the narrative around taxes. The episode concludes with news on Taiga Motors producing its first electric snowmobiles and NIO's potential US expansion. less
Podcast: Rivian EV of Year, First Earnings, Hyundai Ioniq 5 Price, Hummer EV Deliveries, and More

Podcast: Rivian EV of Year, First Earnings, Hyundai Ioniq 5 Price, Hummer EV Deliveries, and More

This episode of the Electrek Podcast delves into significant developments in the EV space, with a strong focus on Rivian. The R1T is lauded as Electre... k's 2021 Vehicle of the Year, praised for its impressive first-generation execution, high-quality fit and finish, and compelling features like a large frunk, integrated speaker, and a luxurious interior. While acknowledging minor criticisms such as weight and occasional software sluggishness, the review highlights the R1T's strong performance both on-road and off-road. The podcast also covers Rivian's first earnings report, noting substantial losses but also a significant cash reserve post-IPO and strong reservation growth. The planned second factory in Georgia is discussed as a strategic, albeit capital-intensive, move. The discussion then shifts to the Hyundai Ioniq 5, with its pricing revealed to be competitive, starting under $40,000 for the standard range RWD model, offering a compelling alternative to the Tesla Model 3. The Kia EV6's EPA range figures are also presented, suggesting it may offer slightly better efficiency. Finally, the episode touches on GM's Hummer EV deliveries, the teaser for the GMC Sierra Denali EV, Toyota's vague EV strategy including a pickup concept, John Deere's acquisition of Kreisel Electric, a Tesla Model S prototype with a CCS port, and the expansion plans for Gigafactory Texas. The Build Back Better bill's uncertain future and its impact on EV tax credits are also mentioned. less
Podcast: New Tesla Cybertruck Spotted, Model 3/Y Update, Toyota Battery Factory, and More

Podcast: New Tesla Cybertruck Spotted, Model 3/Y Update, Toyota Battery Factory, and More

This episode of the Electrek Podcast delves into several significant EV developments. The most prominent discussion centers on the updated Tesla Cyber... truck prototype, highlighting changes like a massive windshield wiper, the return of physical side mirrors (potentially regulatory-driven), and a possibly smaller bed size. The podcast also covers upcoming updates for the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y, including a switch to 15.5V lithium-ion batteries, the AMD Ryzen chip for improved display performance, and laminated rear door glass. Other key news includes Tesla's integration of its Supercharger stall locking system into its app in China, Tesla halting Model S/X orders outside North America due to backlog, Toyota's $1.25 billion battery factory investment in North Carolina, and the Hyundai Ioniq 5's impressive EPA range. The hosts also touch upon the complexities of the US EV tax credit bill and the potential impact of VW's electric ID. California camper van. less
Podcast: Tesla Cybertruck Update, Cyberquad, Nissan's New Electrification Plan, and More

Podcast: Tesla Cybertruck Update, Cyberquad, Nissan's New Electrification Plan, and More

This podcast episode delves into recent Tesla Cybertruck updates, revealing a significant shift towards a Quad Motor configuration with independent to... rque control for each wheel, alongside four-wheel steering and the controversial 'crab mode'. While this positions the Cybertruck to compete with offerings from Rivian and Hummer, it raises questions about the previously announced tri-motor variant and the feasibility of the $40,000 price point. The discussion also highlights Elon Musk's 'tech bandwagon' comment, suggesting a focus on advanced features, including the confirmed yoke steering wheel, which is expected to be paired with steer-by-wire technology to mitigate usability issues. The episode touches upon the Cyberquad for Kids, a $1,900 Radio Flyer toy, and the improved performance of new AMD chips in Model Y and S/X vehicles. Additionally, it covers Tesla's AI auto-labeling tool for FSD training and the official relocation of Tesla's headquarters to Austin, Texas. Finally, Nissan's 'Ambition 2030' plan and Electrify America's network expansion are briefly discussed. less
Podcast: Tesla's Ultimatum, Full Self-Driving 10.5, Mercedes-Benz EQB, More

Podcast: Tesla's Ultimatum, Full Self-Driving 10.5, Mercedes-Benz EQB, More

This episode of the Electrek Podcast delves into several key developments in the EV market. A significant portion discusses Tesla's ultimatum to ... buyers delaying deliveries, highlighting the strategic reasons behind it, including end-of-year targets and potential tax credit gaming. The podcast also covers Tesla's withdrawal from EU subsidies for its German Gigafactory, exploring potential underlying reasons beyond the stated ideological stance against subsidies. Updates on Gigafactory Texas's first phase of Model Y production costs and timelines are provided, contrasting with the ongoing regulatory hurdles in Germany. The discussion touches upon Tesla's Full Self-Driving Beta 10.5 update, noting improvements in object detection and the controversial addition of VIN-associated data collection for safety events. Finally, the launch of the Mercedes-Benz EQB in Europe and the tease of a hyper-efficient Vision EQXX concept car are covered, alongside Rivian's customer delivery windows and a $20,000 carbon ceramic brake kit for the Model S Plaid. less
Podcast: LA Auto Show Report, Tesla Phantom Braking Problem, EV Incentives, and More

Podcast: LA Auto Show Report, Tesla Phantom Braking Problem, EV Incentives, and More

This podcast episode provides a comprehensive report from the LA Auto Show, highlighting key EV news and discussions. The Porsche Taycan GTS is presen... ted as a compelling option, positioned between the 4S and Turbo models, featuring an 800-volt architecture and a 93.4 kWh battery, though its WLTP range of 213 miles may translate to less on EPA cycles. The Nissan Ariya's US launch is detailed, with pricing starting at $46,000 for the RWD version and $59,000 for AWD, noting its competitive positioning against the Model Y despite a delayed release. The Kia EV9 and Hyundai Concept 7 concepts are discussed as previews of future large electric SUVs, though their production-ready status is questioned due to features like suicide doors. A significant portion is dedicated to GM's lack of EV presence at the show and the ongoing issues with the Chevy Bolt EV's battery recall, including a new software update that limits charging to 80% but removes parking restrictions. The Fisker Ocean SUV is unveiled, with a starting MSRP of $37,500, though skepticism remains regarding Fisker's ability to deliver due to past performance and manufacturing challenges with Magna. The episode also covers the opening of GM's Factory ZERO, President Biden's remarks on electrification and his controversial praise for GM CEO Mary Barra, and Tesla's phantom braking issues, which have seen a notable increase in NHTSA complaints. Finally, long delivery timelines for Tesla Model S and X, the milestone of 250,000 Powerwall deliveries, and the Tesla Semi's charging infrastructure development are discussed. less
Podcast: Elon Musk Selling Tesla (TSLA), Tesla Semi News, Rivian Goes Public, and More

Podcast: Elon Musk Selling Tesla (TSLA), Tesla Semi News, Rivian Goes Public, and More

This episode of the Electrek Podcast delves into several significant developments in the EV and energy sectors. The primary focus is Elon Musk's ... sale of Tesla stock, which the hosts dissect as a strategic move to cover impending tax obligations on stock options rather than a response to concerns about unrealized gains. The discussion also covers Tesla's recent Model Y price increases, attributing them to supply chain costs and the upcoming US EV tax incentives, which present a complex decision for buyers regarding delivery timing versus new order pricing. Additionally, the podcast touches on Tesla's software update adding waypoints to navigation, potential battery production investments in Quebec, and the Supercharger network's milestone of 30,000 global chargers. Other news includes Rivian's successful IPO, Subaru's unveiling of the Solterra, and the COP26 declaration for all-electric vehicles by 2040. less
Podcast: Tesla Opens Superchargers, Model 3/Y Price & Range Update, VW CEO Troubles, More

Podcast: Tesla Opens Superchargers, Model 3/Y Price & Range Update, VW CEO Troubles, More

The Electrek Podcast covers significant Tesla news, including the pilot program for opening Superchargers to non-Tesla EVs in the Netherlands. While t... his move is seen as a positive step, challenges like cable length and potential user experience issues for non-Tesla drivers are noted. The discussion also delves into the 2022 Model 3 and Model Y updates, highlighting range increases and price hikes, with the Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive seeing a notable price jump and the addition of standard heated seats and steering wheel. New paint options, including standard silver, are also mentioned. The podcast touches on Tesla's new, more powerful solar roof tiles and a new home charger with a J1772 connector. A significant portion is dedicated to the Hertz deal, with Elon Musk clarifying that no contract is signed, causing market confusion, though the long-term benefits of brand exposure and potential customer acquisition are acknowledged. Finally, the episode discusses VW CEO Herbert Diess's internal struggles and his candid remarks about Tesla's manufacturing efficiency, which he believes VW must emulate to survive. Diess's position is seen as crucial for accelerating VW's EV transition, despite pushback from the worker's council. less
Podcast: Hertz Orders 100K Teslas, TSLA at a Trillion, Toyota's First BEV, More

Podcast: Hertz Orders 100K Teslas, TSLA at a Trillion, Toyota's First BEV, More

This episode of the Electrek Podcast delves into the significant Hertz order of 100,000 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range vehicles, a deal valued at approx... imately $4.3 billion. Notably, Elon Musk confirmed Hertz did not receive a discount, paying consumer prices. The podcast highlights the potential ripple effects, including Uber drivers gaining access to 50,000 of these vehicles at a weekly rate of $234 (including insurance and maintenance), with potential for the total Hertz order to expand to 200,000 units. The discussion also touches on Tesla's $1 trillion market cap, partly fueled by this news and a Morgan Stanley price target increase. Other segments cover new Tesla paint colors, Sentry Mode live view with audio broadcasting, a slower rollout for FSD Beta 10.4, Panasonic's 4680 battery cell development, and the increasing adoption of LFP batteries. The show also briefly covers Toyota's bZ4X and Lucid's Air delivery start. less
Interview with Shell Greenlots Tannaz Banisadre on Plug and Charge

Interview with Shell Greenlots Tannaz Banisadre on Plug and Charge

This interview with Tannaz Banisadre, COO of Shell Greenlots, offers a comprehensive look into the company's strategy and the future of EV chargi... ng infrastructure. Banisadre highlights Shell's commitment to EV adoption, emphasizing the opportunities gained since the Greenlots acquisition. A key focus is the Plug and Charge standard (ISO 15118), with Greenlots being ISO 15118-ready from a software perspective. However, widespread adoption hinges on an ecosystem play, requiring vehicle manufacturers and hardware providers to be on board. While Greenlots enables networks like Electrify America, their branded stations may not yet support Plug and Charge due to hardware limitations and the need for critical mass. The discussion also delves into innovative solutions for urban charging challenges, including lamppost charging and partnerships for condo/building charging. Shell's broader strategy encompasses residential charging, leveraging their extensive global retail network, and exploring destination charging. Energy management, integrating battery storage and solar, is a significant area of development, with pilots underway in the Netherlands and Singapore to address grid constraints and reliability. Banisadre stresses the importance of both supply and demand-side incentives for infrastructure growth and expresses optimism about expanding high-power charging, improving reliability, and achieving Shell's ambitious target of 500,000 charge points globally by 2025. less
Podcast: Tesla Record Earnings, New Cybertruck Prototype, Tesla Twitter

Podcast: Tesla Record Earnings, New Cybertruck Prototype, Tesla Twitter

This episode of the Electrek Podcast delves into Tesla's Q3 2021 earnings, revealing record-breaking financial performance with a significant bea... t on earnings per share and an impressive automotive gross margin of 30.5%. Despite supply chain challenges and increased vehicle prices, Tesla managed to boost profitability. The discussion also touches upon the milestone of achieving an annual production run rate of over one million cars, with Shanghai now outproducing Fremont. A new Cybertruck prototype was spotted, featuring side mirrors and rear-wheel steering, indicating progress towards production, though a firm delivery timeline remains elusive, with late 2022 being a cautious estimate. The podcast also addresses the controversial appointment of Missy Cummings as NHTSA's senior safety advisor, highlighting the backlash from 'Tesla Twitter' and the underlying concerns about her perceived anti-Tesla stance and potential conflicts of interest, while also acknowledging her strong credentials. Finally, the shift to LFP battery chemistry for the Model 3 Standard Range globally and the ongoing challenges with Model X and S delivery timelines are discussed. less
Podcast: Tesla Gigafactory Berlin, Tesla Cybertruck, First Megacharger, and More

Podcast: Tesla Gigafactory Berlin, Tesla Cybertruck, First Megacharger, and More

This podcast episode delves into several key Tesla developments, with a significant portion dedicated to the Gigafactory Berlin's 'Gigafest&... #039;. The event is described as a successful community outreach, offering test drives and factory tours that impressed attendees with Tesla's openness and employee motivation. A major takeaway from the factory tour was the visible progress on the structural battery pack and the use of large Giga Press machines, highlighting Tesla's manufacturing innovations. The discussion also touched upon the Cybertruck, noting the removal of detailed specs and pricing from its webpage, suggesting a potential shift in strategy or pricing for the 2022 production year, with a focus on higher-end trims over the initially advertised base model. The deployment of the first Megacharger at Gigafactory Nevada signals progress for the Tesla Semi, though customer deliveries remain uncertain. The episode also covers the wider release of Full Self-Driving Beta, the new crash safety technology leveraging real-world data, Tesla app updates, and a warning from JB Straubel about the supply chain challenges for automakers transitioning to EVs. Overall, the podcast provides a comprehensive update on Tesla's manufacturing, product development, and strategic direction. less
Electrek Podcast: Tesla Record Numbers, Prices, Shareholders’ Meeting, and More

Electrek Podcast: Tesla Record Numbers, Prices, Shareholders’ Meeting, and More

The Electrek Podcast covers a significant week for Tesla, highlighted by record Q3 2021 delivery numbers, exceeding Wall Street expectations despite g... lobal supply chain issues. The hosts commend Tesla's ability to navigate chip shortages better than competitors, noting impressive year-over-year and quarter-over-quarter growth. The discussion also delves into Tesla's headquarters move to Austin, Texas, emphasizing potential cost benefits and the development of an "ecological paradise." A major point of contention is the ongoing rollout and communication surrounding Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) software, with the hosts expressing skepticism about the "safety score" system and the transparency of the beta program, suggesting it borders on false advertising. The podcast also touches on manufacturing innovations like single-piece front and rear castings for Model Y, and recent price increases for Model 3 and Model Y, attributed to rising costs but questioned in light of increasing gross margins. Finally, the upcoming release of the CCS adapter in the US is noted as a positive development for owners. less
Podcast: Rivian R1T Electric Pickup First Drive, Lucid Air Production, Tesla FSD Beta, and More

Podcast: Rivian R1T Electric Pickup First Drive, Lucid Air Production, Tesla FSD Beta, and More

The Electrek Podcast hosts provide an in-depth first drive of the Rivian R1T electric pickup. The reviewer was highly impressed, calling it "easi... ly the best truck I’ve ever driven, both off road and on." Key highlights include its exceptional off-road capability, quiet and smooth ride, impressive acceleration (0-60 in three seconds), and numerous thoughtful "Easter eggs" like the portable Bluetooth speaker/light and built-in flashlight. The reviewer also praised its balanced design, which is both rugged and luxurious, and its manageable size compared to other large trucks. Minor criticisms included a slightly slow center display and a small issue with a window rolling up. Charging speeds were noted as good, though the large battery means longer charge times. The discussion also touched on the Lucid Air's production start and Ford's significant investment in new EV and battery factories, alongside updates on Tesla's FSD Beta rollout and associated controversies. less
Podcast: Tesla Megafactory, Audi Q4 E-tron, Toyota/Honda Signing Their Death Warrants, and More

Podcast: Tesla Megafactory, Audi Q4 E-tron, Toyota/Honda Signing Their Death Warrants, and More

This episode of the Electrek Podcast covers several key developments in the EV space. The hosts discuss Tesla's new 'Megafactory' in Ca... lifornia, noting its focus on Megapack batteries and the lack of official Tesla announcement. Elon Musk's denial of a Russian Gigafactory location is also mentioned, alongside confirmation of Tesla's ongoing search for a fourth Gigafactory. A significant point is Tesla's decision to honor original pricing for Solar Roof contracts after a controversial price hike, which the hosts attribute to a lack of PR strategy. The podcast also highlights the launch of the Audi Q4 e-tron in the US, praising its competitive pricing, especially the rear-wheel-drive version, and positioning it as a strong Model Y competitor despite slightly lower efficiency. A critical view is taken on Honda's and Toyota's slow EV adoption strategies, with Honda's reliance on GM's platform and limited production targets, and Toyota facing boycotts for lobbying against EV incentives, both seen as potentially detrimental to their market position. Finally, the expansion of Redwood Materials into battery material production, backed by a Ford partnership, is presented as a crucial step towards sustainable EV supply chains. less
Podcast: $12,500 US EV Incentive, Tesla FSD Beta, Lucid 520-Mile Range, VW ID.4 AWD and More

Podcast: $12,500 US EV Incentive, Tesla FSD Beta, Lucid 520-Mile Range, VW ID.4 AWD and More

The Electrek Podcast discusses the proposed $12,500 US EV incentive, highlighting its potential to accelerate adoption by removing manufacturer caps a... nd offering point-of-sale rebates. However, a significant point of contention is the additional $4,500 for union-assembled vehicles, which is criticized as a "Tesla tax" and a political maneuver benefiting unions. The podcast also delves into Tesla's FSD Beta v10, noting its impressive environmental perception but questioning its decision-making capabilities and the rollout strategy involving driver monitoring. Updates on Rivian's R1T production start and Ford's F-150 Lightning pre-production are covered, emphasizing the race for electric pickup truck volume. Lucid's impressive EPA-certified 520-mile range for the Air Dream Edition is celebrated, while the VW ID.4 AWD is reviewed positively for its increased power and improved off-road capability compared to the RWD version, despite some lingering software and UI criticisms. less
Podcast: Mercedes Goes All Out at IAA, VW's $24,000 EV, Tesla FSD Beta Leaks, and More

Podcast: Mercedes Goes All Out at IAA, VW's $24,000 EV, Tesla FSD Beta Leaks, and More

The Electrek Podcast covers a significant week of automotive news, with a strong focus on Mercedes-Benz's IAA reveals. The EQE sedan is highlight... ed as a compelling electric E-Class equivalent, praised for its exterior design, spacious interior thanks to its EV architecture, and an impressive WLTP range exceeding 400 miles. The reviewer notes the potential for the passenger screen to play videos, enabled by advanced driver monitoring. The EQB, positioned as a competitor to the Tesla Model Y, is also discussed, though its 66.5 kWh battery and 100 kW charging speed are seen as slightly behind the curve. Concept vehicles like the electric G-Class (EQG) and the Maybach SUV are presented as future production models, showcasing Mercedes' broad EV strategy. On the Volkswagen front, the ID.Life concept previews an affordable ~$24,000 EV due in 2025, featuring a compact design and innovative tech. The Tesla Model S Plaid's Nürburgring record is celebrated, though the yoke steering wheel's practicality for everyday use is questioned. The discussion also touches on Tesla's FSD Beta leak, a patent for laser-based debris removal, and Tesla's workaround for direct sales bans by opening on tribal land in New Mexico. Overall, the podcast provides a comprehensive overview of key industry developments. less
Podcast: Tesla's $25,000 Electric Car Timing, Roadster, and Cybertruck

Podcast: Tesla's $25,000 Electric Car Timing, Roadster, and Cybertruck

This episode of the Electrek Podcast delves into several key Tesla updates, primarily focusing on the much-anticipated $25,000 electric car, the Cyber... truck, and the new Roadster. The hosts express skepticism regarding Tesla's timeline for the $25,000 model, with Elon Musk suggesting a 2023 release and even posing the radical idea of it launching without a steering wheel or pedals, contingent on full self-driving capabilities. This raises questions about the feasibility of the $25,000 price point when combined with the necessary autonomous technology and potential subscription models. The Cybertruck's production is confirmed to be delayed, with volume production not expected until late 2023 due to new technologies and production ramp challenges. Similarly, the new Roadster is pushed to 2023, with a significant caveat that this timeline is dependent on a drama-free 2022 for Tesla. The podcast also touches upon the low take rate for Tesla's Full Self-Driving package, particularly in Europe and Asia, and discusses a peculiar case of insurance fraud involving a Model X. The discussion highlights Tesla's ongoing challenges with delivery logistics and the impact of global supply chain issues. less
Podcast: New Tesla App, Tesla Energy Push, Rivian Pushing Ahead, and More

Podcast: New Tesla App, Tesla Energy Push, Rivian Pushing Ahead, and More

This episode of the Electrek Podcast delves into Tesla's significant app overhaul, introducing a refreshed UI and expanded functionality aimed at... both owners and non-owners, including order management and enhanced energy product integration. The hosts highlight the 'off-grid' one-click feature for Tesla Energy users and the improved multi-vehicle management for owners. The discussion then shifts to Tesla's aggressive expansion into the energy retail market, particularly in Texas, with plans for a substantial 250 MW battery system at Gigafactory Texas, alongside its existing virtual power plant initiatives in California and Germany. The podcast also touches upon the European Model Y deliveries originating from China, the introduction of the LFP battery pack for the Model 3 Standard Range Plus in North America, and the ongoing development of Tesla's Full Self-Driving Beta. Finally, the team covers the Model S Plaid's Nürburgring testing accident, the vindication of Tesla vehicles in a Dallas fire incident thanks to dashcam footage, and the potential for John Carmack to improve UI performance on older Tesla models. The episode concludes with US EV sales data, showing Tesla's continued dominance despite market share erosion, and updates on Rivian's production readiness and Ford's F-150 Lightning production plans. less
Podcast: We Discuss Tesla Bot, AI Day, Autopilot Probe, and More

Podcast: We Discuss Tesla Bot, AI Day, Autopilot Probe, and More

This podcast episode delves into Tesla's AI Day, focusing heavily on the much-discussed Tesla Bot. While the reveal was dramatic, featuring a dan... cer in a robot suit before showcasing a concept, the hosts express skepticism about its immediate viability, labeling it 'vaporware' and primarily a recruiting tool. They acknowledge Tesla's AI and battery expertise as relevant but question the focus on a humanoid robot over core business priorities like FSD and production. The discussion also covers Tesla's Dojo supercomputer, highlighting its impressive specs and potential as a new business unit, and the simulation system's advancement, comparing it to a video game engine. The NHTSA probe into Autopilot and emergency vehicles is analyzed, with the hosts suggesting the focus might be misplaced and that driver inattention is a more likely factor. The ban on salvaged cars from the Supercharger network is criticized for lacking a clear path for inspection and re-entry. Finally, the episode touches on the Model S Plaid's drag race against the Rimac Nevera, the increased non-refundable order fee, and the sighting of camouflaged Model 3s in India. less
Podcast: Tesla Cybertruck Delay, Model Y in Europe, $40,000 Cap on Tax Credit, More

Podcast: Tesla Cybertruck Delay, Model Y in Europe, $40,000 Cap on Tax Credit, More

The Electrek Podcast discusses the official delay of the Tesla Cybertruck to 2022, with production likely starting in the second half of the year. The... hosts express skepticism about meaningful production numbers in 2022 due to the novel construction and ongoing production challenges with other Tesla models. The discussion also touches on the Model Y's European rollout and production at Gigafactory Berlin, with an optimistic October start date contingent on government approval. Significant time is dedicated to the ongoing Model S delivery delays, where existing customers face extended waits and potential price increases, leading to frustration. The podcast highlights Tesla's improved battery recycling efficiency (92%) and Elon Musk's public criticism of chip suppliers Renesas and Bosch due to supply chain limitations. Finally, the proposed $40,000 cap on EV tax credits is debated, with the hosts arguing for a more reasonable cap and a shift towards point-of-sale incentives. less
Podcast: We Talk About the Whole Biden-Tesla Mess, $25,000 Tesla, Blade Batteries and More

Podcast: We Talk About the Whole Biden-Tesla Mess, $25,000 Tesla, Blade Batteries and More

This episode of the Electrek Podcast delves into several key developments in the EV space, with a significant portion dedicated to the controversy sur... rounding Tesla's exclusion from a Biden administration EV announcement. The hosts argue that while Tesla's absence was notable, the focus should be on the administration's actions, particularly the infrastructure bill and the Clean Energy for America bill, which are ultimately beneficial for EV adoption and Tesla's mission, despite potential union influence on incentive structures. The discussion also highlights significant issues with Tesla's Model S delivery communication, where buyers are experiencing confusing and shifting delivery dates and VIN assignments, leading to frustration and speculation about production priorities. Furthermore, the podcast touches on rumors of BYD supplying Tesla with 'blade batteries' and the persistent speculation around a $25,000 Tesla model, with the hosts urging tempered expectations regarding timelines and pricing due to Tesla's historical pricing strategies and production challenges. Finally, the upcoming Tesla AI Day is previewed, with hints of advancements beyond the vehicle fleet, including Dojo supercomputing and potential partnerships in robotics. less