WE DRIVE TESLA FSD BETA, MINI GETS NEW ELECTRIC MODELS AND POLESTAR 2 RECALLED

EV Channels Review

The podcast discusses Tom's decision to trade in his 16-month-old Tesla Model 3 Dual Motor Long Range for the updated version, citing improvements in efficiency (now EPA rated at 353 miles) and the new magnetic sun visor clips as key motivators. He highlights Tesla's continuous over-the-air updates as a significant advantage over competitors like the BMW i3. The discussion also touches on the Model Y's initial production quality issues, which Tom believes Tesla has largely resolved with the Model 3. A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the Tesla FSD Beta, with reviewers expressing mixed but largely critical views. While acknowledging the impressive vision system's ability to recognize objects, they highlight significant concerns regarding its inconsistent performance in navigating urban environments, particularly with tight corners and left turns. The lack of comprehensive driver training and the potential for complacency due to the system's partial successes are major safety worries. The panel also notes Tesla's aggressive expansion of service centers, a necessary move to keep pace with sales growth, and discusses the company's substantial investment in Gigafactories and battery production.