PODCAST: TESLA FSD SUBSCRIPTION, OPENING SUPERCHARGER NETWORK, TESLA VIRTUAL POWER PLANT, AND MORE

EV Channels Review

This podcast episode delves into several significant developments within the EV and energy sectors, with a primary focus on Tesla. The discussion highlights the impending production of the Tesla Semi truck, with initial low-volume production (five trucks per week) expected soon, utilizing the Fremont factory's driveshaft and general assembly lines. Deliveries are anticipated by the end of the year to customers like PepsiCo and Walmart Canada. A major point of contention and discussion is Tesla's decision to open its Supercharger network to other automakers later this year, a move met with mixed reactions from the Tesla community due to concerns about network congestion, though it aligns with Tesla's broader mission of accelerating EV adoption. The podcast also critically examines the launch of Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) subscription, particularly the controversy surrounding the $1,000 hardware upgrade fee for older vehicles that were promised FSD capability. The hosts argue this contradicts previous assurances and potentially exposes Tesla to class-action lawsuits. Other topics include the sale of Tesla's Maxwell ultra-capacitor business, a hold on Model S deliveries in the US due to unspecified reasons, recent price increases for Model 3 and Y, and the launch of Tesla's Virtual Power Plant in California, presented as a public good initiative. The episode also touches upon GM's Bolt EV recall and Mercedes-Benz's all-electric plans.