Musk’s announcement on X wasn’t the one time Tesla’s Robotaxi was talked about on April 5. Just hours earlier, it was revealed that the long-awaited Model 2 project was essentially dead. Leaked inner emails from Tesla prompt that the corporate had pulled the plug on its plans to provide an ultra-cheap household automotive. These plans stretched again to the early days of Tesla, when Elon Musk prompt that the early concentrate on premium autos was all supposed to finally facilitate a platform that would provide low-cost, but high-quality, EVs to the plenty. This thought was fleshed out as time went on, and the primary price range Tesla was set to roll off the manufacturing line in early 2025.
However, not like the repeatedly delayed Cybertruck, the Model 2 will probably by no means see the sunshine of day. Competition from Chinese EV producers, together with some that produce autos for lower than half of the Model 2’s purported MSRP, appears to be the rationale the mission was scrapped.
The one silver lining for these concerned appears to be Musk’s plans to construct a self-driving Robotaxi on the platform that the Model 2 would have used. While Musk is tight lipped on that — posting on X solely that “Reuters is dead” in response to the leaks — it could actually match with previous reports about the shared architecture. Whether we see an actual Robotaxi in August, or one thing nearer to a render or mockup, is anybody’s guess: in any case, we’re speaking about an organization whose first humanoid robotic “demo” was an individual dancing in a spandex go well with.
Tesla’s Cybertruck has made fairly a splash within the electrical and non-electric markets for a lot of causes. You have a boxy, virtually 12 months 3000 vibe in its design, though trying deeper: Where’s the ruggedness and all-terrain options? Many individuals have complained this EV pickup would not provide as wild of a journey as they’d like for the $57,390 (RWD) or $76,390 (AWD). Cybertruck is cool, sure, however what if it was reworked right into a 6×6 mannequin?
What if Tesla went even further into the off-roading segment and made a beast configuration of this notorious pickup? There are limitless alternatives right here for the model, plus the broader EV market, and with this in thoughts, TopSpeed’s very personal digital artist, Rostislav Prokop, we have now an thought of what a fully-loaded 6×6 Cybertruck *may* probably appear to be.
Of course, these renderings are merely for enjoyable, so there is not any affirmation from Tesla this model of a Cybertruck will ever hit manufacturing. After all, we’re nonetheless ready for the usual Cybertruck’s manufacturing numbers to extend, plus the model to iron out a few of the points this mannequin has been experiencing. Who are we kidding, there have already been Cybertrucks rusting. Tesla wants US! Keep studying to seek out out what we have created right here and our ideas on Cybertruck’s future.
In order to provide the most recent and correct info attainable, the information used to compile this text was sourced from Tesla.
The Tesla Cybertruck is likely one of the most polarizing EVs in historical past, and that is all the things it is advisable to know in regards to the all-electric pickup truck.
WOWZA: A 6×6 Cybertruck Is Very Doable
Looking at our in-house renderings of the 6×6 Cybertruck idea, you might have a direct feeling of nostalgia for this design, plus a little bit of envy if you happen to’re evaluating it to the real-life EV mannequin. First, 6×6 vehicles have at all times been heavy tactical vehicles constructed for military-grade efficiency. Therefore, a mannequin already as cumbersome because the Cybertruck would not want a lot to make the leap to this a lot cooler model.
Thanks to Rostislav, you possibly can see that the 6×6 configuration gives a bit larger floor clearance, plus an ordinary pickup truck vibe that so many are after. You additionally see the sheer dimension and sturdiness of Cybertruck in these renderings, keeping much of its good qualities whereas omitting the not-so-great ones. Sometimes, much less is extra! Oh how we want Tesla would have remembered this when designing and producing Cybertruck.
A 6×6 Cybertruck means a extra rugged driving expertise.
Higher floor clearance is best for off-roading
More mattress area and fewer passenger area are greatest for working
An Extra Set Of Wheels? Done
Rostislav Prokop / TopSpeed
One standout function from our renderings of a 6×6 Cybertruck is that this mannequin would add an additional set of wheels. Typically, Cybertruck has 20-inch wheels, with tires from Goodyear, so including another set would make this automobile not solely extra steady in tough terrain but additionally a bit heavier on the highway. Extra wheels and tires are often suited to excessive load-bearing fashions, for which a 6×6 can be excellent. However, the Tesla Cybertruck we know and have right now solely requires two to technically do its job. Which is….? Any guesses?
With a 6×6 Cybertruck, we might see Tesla add one other set of wheels to this truck. You may anticipate higher payload and towing capability, in addition to a extra steady drive in off-roading situations. More wheels = extra toting pressure.
Here’s what occurred within the newest electrical vs. I.C.E. grudge match between the Hennessey H700 C8 Corvette and an AWD dual-motor Cybertruck.
Our 6×6 Cybertruck Looks More Natural
Rostislav Prokop / TopSpeed
Although the present Cybertruck is neat to take a look at, a lot of its suggestions has been iffy in regard to its driving and total mobility on on a regular basis roads and highways. Because of its ultra-bulky configuration and considerably awkward mattress space, Cybertruck feels extra like a gag than a real workhorse. That stated, via our digital renderings, you possibly can see what an enchancment this design makes to the general vibe of the Cybertruck.
With this model, you can too see what a distinction larger floor clearance makes, plus the hollowing out of Cybertruck’s mattress. There’s extra room for stuff that issues, which to most of us, is a good factor. Current Cybertruck models do not warrant on a regular basis work and leisure however really feel nearer to attention-grabbing second or third automobiles.
We Kept The Lighting The Same
Rostislav Prokop / TopSpeed
If you are taking a more in-depth take a look at our model of a 6×6 Cybertruck EV, you possibly can see key factors, together with lighting, have remained the identical. Because Tesla did a nice job with the front and rear lighting (strip-style), we saved it and as an alternative targeted on the extra important parts of the pickup truck. One factor that can complement the prevailing Cybertruck is its dedication to being totally different. Striking lighting makes for a extra dramatic entrance and exit if you’re behind the wheel, which is what all the thought behind this EV needed to attain. Yes, we love Cybertruck entrance and back-end detailing, so why go forward and alter it? We’re way more desirous about making this truck really feel end-of-the-world-ready anyway.
If you are planning to get your self an electrical or hybrid truck this 12 months, you should try these choices.
A 6×6 EV Would Be The First Of Its Kind
Rostislav Prokop / TopSpeed
Before gawking additional at our digital renderings of a 6×6 Tesla Cybertruck, you need to keep in mind this could be the primary of its form within the electrical area. Of course, we do not see 6×6 fashions hit any markets usually, as they’re extra devoted to army use or idea initiatives, however it goes with out saying this could be monumental. The Cybertruck alone was a MAJOR shift in the electric truck space, making fashions just like the Ford F-150 Lightning and Chevrolet Silverado EV appear virtually too conservative. That stated, Cybertruck has turn into an icon for a lot of causes, optimistic and unfavorable, so releasing a second wave of off-road-ready configurations can be an amazing technique for Elon Musk and his beloved EV firm.
Less Passenger Space May Need To Happen In Our Model
Rostislav Prokop / TopSpeed
Now, earlier than you panic, it is price mentioning that to present the world the most effective 6×6 model of Cybertruck, we could should slice down a few of the rear passenger area and seating. With the present Tesla Cybetruck, you see 63 inches within the entrance and 62 inches within the rear, plus a hip room of 57.2 inches for entrance and rear passengers. With a 6×6 mannequin specializing in basic 6×6 structure, you may even see Tesla lower down on rear quantity and total area. This can be fairly commonplace in some other automobile, although Cybertruck boasts quite a bit of person-space in its present type. Whatever the case, you possibly can’t have all of it.
The Tesla Cybertruck’s hidden options reveal a automobile designed for journey, practicality, and pushing boundaries.
Let’s Get Dirty, Cybertruck
Rostislav Prokop / TopSpeed
Because our in-house renderings of what a 6×6 Cybertruck may appear to be present a deeper understanding of the true essence of a pickup mannequin, possibly it is time Tesla takes a web page from one other producer’s guide. Classic design is that means for a cause, and lots of new fashions may return to their roots in the event that they want to appeal to a broader viewers.
Again, the 6×6 model of Cybertruck will not be conventional by any means, though it does provide a extra work-friendly really feel than the present non-6×6 configuration. What Tesla should do in the next generation of this EV is use driver suggestions to supply one thing extra people-friendly with its pickup mannequin. Not all drivers need to appeal to a whole car parking zone of consideration every time they pull up, and maybe they’d need to deliver their Cybertruck into a piece web site and showcase in different methods than purely aesthetic.
Fewer Antics And More Power, Please
Rostislav Prokop / TopSpeed
Adding to the above level, our Tesla Cybertruck renderings are an amazing launching level for what Tesla could do for the next generation of this model. Focusing on the towing, payload, and total energy of this truck could make it attraction extra to the on a regular basis truck proprietor, versus individuals who purchase Cybertruck to easily be seen. Yes, it is at all times enjoyable to be the lifetime of the celebration, however it’s additionally price it to personal one thing you need to use for a lot of issues. Follow our lead, Elon!
Lithium-ion batteries energy Teslas and most EVs, very like the batteries you discover in laptops and smartphones, solely a lot greater. These batteries retailer the power that makes your Tesla work. While the optimum temperature for a Tesla battery is between 60 and 80 levels Fahrenheit, the automobile performs effectively in a variety of temperatures earlier than it begins to run into issues. However, as soon as the mercury drops under 32 levels Fahrenheit, Teslas could begin to expertise decreased effectivity and longer charging instances.
In chilly climate, the electrolyte fluid in Tesla batteries turns into sluggish, impeding the circulation of the lithium ions. When this occurs, the battery cannot take in as a lot power from a charging plug. Many Tesla drivers run into issues as a result of they arrive at fast-charging stations with batteries which can be too chilly to cost. Then, they’ve to attend for it to warmth up earlier than their automobile will even take electrical energy and start charging.
Tesla‘s most inexpensive mannequin and flagship sedan, the Model 3, will now not qualify for the $7,500 U.S. electric vehicle tax credit beginning January 1st. This change applies to the Rear-Wheel Drive and Long Range variants specifically.
The firm had beforehand stated on its web sites that consumers who take supply of their new Model 3 RWD or Long Range variations earlier than December 31 might probably qualify for half of the EV tax credit score (i.e. $3,750.) Things have taken a extra drastic flip, nonetheless, because it now seems the 2 trim ranges will now not be eligible for any portion of the $7,500 tax credit score. To make clear issues, Tesla says the following on its website:
“Customers who take delivery of a qualified new Tesla vehicle and meet all federal requirements are eligible for a tax credit up to $7,500. Tax credit will end for Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive and Model 3 Long Range on December 31, 2023 based on current view of new IRA guidance. Take delivery by December 31 to qualify for full tax credit.”
In order to provide the most modern and correct info doable, the info used to compile this text was sourced from varied authoritative sources, together with the U.S. Department Of Treasury, Reuters, and SNE Research.
The Tesla Model 3 Performance accelerates into the way forward for electrical driving with a dual-motor setup and a design that cuts by the air.
Understanding The New Tax Credit Requirements
As a buyer, you want to first verify a couple of packing containers to be eligible for the federal incentives. For one, you will need to purchase a car in your personal use, primarily within the United States, and never for resale. Secondly, your modified adjusted gross revenue can’t be over:
$300,000 for married {couples} submitting collectively
$225,000 for heads of households
$150,000 for others
Thirdly, the car’s MSRP can’t exceed $80,000 for vans, utility autos, and electrical pickup vans. The MSRP for the opposite car classes could not exceed $55,000 which disqualifies many EVs, such because the Tesla Model S and the Lucid Air. Electric autos that meet all of the aforementioned circumstances, in addition to one among these two necessities, will qualify for a partial $3,750 federal incentive. Vehicles that qualify for each will get the complete $7,500 tax credit score
Meeting The Mineral Requirements Will Get You Half Of The Tax Incentives
Tesla
To meet the crucial mineral requirement, and qualify for a partial $3,750 credit score, a sure proportion of the crucial minerals (reminiscent of lithium, nickel, cobalt, manganese, and graphite) contained inside the battery have to be extracted or processed within the United States, or one among its free commerce settlement companions.
The car may also be eligible if the set proportion of crucial minerals is recycled in North America. And whereas these circumstances, mandated by the Inflation Reduction Act, might sound strict and sophisticated, you’ll be much less happy to know that they’re set to get extra strict over the upcoming years.
For 2023, the relevant proportion is 40-percent.
For 2024, the relevant proportion is 50-percent.
For 2025, the relevant proportion is 60-percent.
For 2026, the relevant proportion is 70-percent.
Beginning in 2027, the relevant proportion is 80-percent.
The Tesla Model 3 Refresh intends to remain forward of the pack as America’s favourite electrical sedan, with new updates and a dedication to excellence.
The Battery Requirements Are More Exigent
If the mineral necessities can appear a bit stern, the battery parts necessities are much more demanding. To meet the requirement for a partial, $3,750 credit score, producers should ensure that an relevant proportion of the worth of the battery parts is both manufactured or assembled in North America. As you’ll be able to see, the standards are set to be more and more extra demanding as effectively.
For 2023, the relevant proportion is 50 %.
For 2024 and 2025, the relevant proportion is 60 %.
For 2026, the relevant proportion is 70 %.
For 2027, the relevant proportion is 80 %.
For 2028, the relevant proportion is 90 %.
Beginning in 2029, the relevant proportion is one hundred pc.
Tesla Model 3 Pricing (Without $7,500 Tax Credit)
Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive
$38,990
Model 3 Long Range
$45,990
Model 3 Performance
$50,990
(Prices sourced from Tesla)
To high all of it off, the IRA stated that after December 31, 2023, no portion of the EV tax credit score is permitted if any part within the EV battery was sourced from a foreign entity of concern “FEOC”. These overseas entities, specifically, embody Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea.
The Tesla Model 3 is cheaper to keep up than many gas-powered autos, nevertheless it additionally comes with hidden prices of its personal.
Tesla Has Come Under The Scope Due To Its Alleged Ties To CATL
Aditya Chinchure Via Unsplash
The Chinese EV market is currently the biggest on the planet, representing one-third of electrical car gross sales worldwide. Aside from being house to many rising corporations, reminiscent of NIO, the PRC can be populated by a few enterprise moguls, specifically BYD and CATL, who’re recognized for manufacturing lithium-ion batteries for a number of EV-makers, reminiscent of Stellantis, Honda, and BMW.
From January to September 2023, CATL’s global market share reached 36.8-percent, in keeping with a report revealed by SNE Research. This determine represented a 34.6-percent YoY improve, and successfully allowed the Fujian-based big to stay the main battery producer on the planet. In the West, and extra significantly within the United States, the corporate’s lengthy attain has been trigger for concern amongst politicians and lawmakers.
Tesla’s Business Practices Are Being Questioned In Congress
On September nineteenth, 2023, a senior Republican in Congress requested Tesla to supply particulars of its ties with CATL. The request sprung out of issues relating to the improper move of U.S. electrical car subsidies to overseas entities, particularly China.
In his follow-up letter to Tesla CEO Elon Musk
, the chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, Representative Jason Smith, inquired if the Austin-based producer has contracts, or is contemplating contracts with Chinese battery maker CATL, or some other overseas entities of concern.
2023 Tesla Model 3 Performance Specs
Model 3 Long Range
Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive
Electric Layout
Dual-motor setup
Rear-electric motor
Horsepower
435 horses
271 horses
Torque
363 pound-feet
310 pound-feet
0-60 mph
4.2 seconds
5.8 seconds
Top Speed
145 mph
140 mph
Electric Range
333 miles
272 miles
Charging Time
147 miles in quarter-hour @250 kW
147 miles in quarter-hour @250 kW
(Specs sourced from Tesla)
Fast-forward a few months later, and it now seems the Model 3 Long Range and Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive will probably be utterly disqualified from receiving any tax credit score come January 1, 2024. The timing is sort of unlucky since Tesla is ready to introduce a revamped version of its flagship sedan, the Model 3 Highland, by subsequent 12 months.
Tax Credits Could Benefit CATL, To The Detriment Of Local Interests
Similarly, Ford has additionally fallen underneath scrutiny on account of its relationship with CATL. In February, the corporate introduced its plans to spend $3.5 billion to construct a battery plant in Michigan using technology sourced directly from CATL. This led to Jason Smith and Mike Gallagher, Republican chairs of the House Ways and Means Committee and the Select Committee on China, seeking answers from Ford relating to their take care of Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL)
“We are concerned that the deal could simply facilitate the partial onshoring of PRC-controlled battery technology, raw materials, and employees while collecting tax credits and flowing funds back to CATL through the licensing agreement,” the House letter stated.
Amid the current price-reductions and in mild of the upcoming Highland model, this is likely to be one of the best time to purchase a Tesla Model 3.
EVs Are Growing At An Unsatisfying Pace, And The New Regulations Won’t Help
Tesla
The upcoming tax credit score necessities that take impact on January 1st, 2024 have the potential to shake up the EV business, which remains to be going through some challenges because it tries to draw extra customers. Nonetheless, a couple of fashions stay eligible for a full tax credit score of $7,500.
EVs Are Not As Popular As They Should Be
Although EV gross sales proceed to develop strongly, and topped 300,000 examples in the United States for the first time in September, they nonetheless solely account for lower than eight-percent of recent car gross sales, in keeping with Cox Automotive. This unsatisfying progress in shopper curiosity is going on regardless of a noticeable lower in EV costs. The common price for an EV dropped to $50,683 in September, marking a noticeable step down from $52,212 in August and $65,295 a 12 months earlier. Nonetheless, EVs remained 28% costlier than ICE autos on common, according to a report revealed by CarGurus in October.
Dealerships are additionally reporting longer backlogs, with EVs sitting available on the market for a median 82 days versus 64 days for ICE autos, in keeping with CarGurus’ report. Thus, it looks as if tightening the rope on EV makers and making tax credit much less accessible might additional irritate these points, within the quick time period not less than.
Knowing Which EVs Qualify For The Tax Credit
According to the IRS and Consumer Reports, the next EV and Plug-in hybrid (PHEV) producers indicated they’re presently eligible for a full tax credit score of $7,500. As you’ll be able to see, a number of the autos on this record aren’t more likely to be eligible for the federal incentives beginning subsequent 12 months.
The previous version of Tesla’s documentation included strict rules for reselling. Initially, the company prohibited any sale within the first 12 months of ownership. However, if an exception was necessary, the buyer would need to obtain written permission from Tesla. Tesla stated that it had the sole authority to consider a resale and remained the exclusive buyer for such Cybertruck units.
Under the previous rules, Tesla would deduct costs such as repair expenses and charge a fee of $0.25 for each mile on the odometer. Interestingly, the updated Cybertruck Motor Vehicle Pre-Order Agreement no longer includes these rules. However, it still maintains a “No Resellers” stance, and any breach of that clause would result in punitive action.
The document states, “We may unilaterally cancel any order that we believe has been made with a view toward resale of the Vehicle or that has otherwise been made in bad faith.” It’s worth noting that there is no mention of the company blocking any future purchase of Tesla cars for the bad actor. It’s important to note that Tesla isn’t the only carmaker to take this approach, as companies like Ferrari, Ford, and Aston Martin also have strict regulations around flipping new cars for a profit.
Tesla has experienced both immense success and notable criticism in its 15 years in the automotive industry. The company is renowned for pioneering modern electric vehicles and innovations like Autopilot. Tesla introduced the Autopilot feature in 2015, making it a breakthrough technology that generated excitement among customers. However, it quickly became the subject of criticism after accidents suspected to be caused by Autopilot occurred, leading to concerns about its safety.
The automaker has been accused of propagating misleading marketing gimmicks that gave drivers a false sense of safety. Additionally, other carmakers like GM, Mercedes, and Ford are developing better self-driving vehicles, posing increased competition for Tesla in the ADAS sector.
Updated on 10/22/2023: With Tesla’s Autopilot and self-driving features falling behind other car brands, there is a heightened sense of urgency to perfect Tesla’s ‘Vision.’ This article has been updated to reflect current Consumer Report testing of ADAS systems and new press information from Tesla regarding these results. Tesla will need to work overtime, but we’re sure they’ll have a breakthrough.
The information for this article has been sourced from Tesla, Consumer Reports, TopGear, Car and Driver, MotorTrend, and other credible websites and publications.
Many people consider Tesla’s Autopilot system unsafe despite its cutting-edge technology.
Reports have emerged of the Autopilot feature not functioning as anticipated.
Tesla’s advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) come in three different levels: Basic Autopilot, Enhanced Autopilot, and Full Self-Driving Beta. However, the names of these levels can be misleading. Tesla’s ADAS has faced controversy because of how it is marketed compared to how drivers use it.
One major concern is that despite being promoted as a safety-enhancing feature, Autopilot appears to endanger the driver’s life. There have been instances of drivers being arrested for being spotted in moving vehicles while the driver’s seat was empty. This suggests that some drivers mistakenly believe Autopilot can operate as a fully self-driving vehicle, allowing them to take their hands off the steering wheel and focus elsewhere.
Moreover, Tesla shareholders have filed a lawsuit against CEO Elon Musk, alleging that he exaggerated the functionalities of the Enhanced Autopilot and Full Self-Driving features. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have taken notice of several accidents suspected to be caused by Autopilot as well. The investigations led to a recall of 363,000 Tesla vehicles due to concerns about the Full Self-Driving system not adhering to speed limits and posing risks at intersections.
Drivers have also reported incidents of sudden and inexplicable braking by Tesla cars, known as “phantom braking.” These incidents have resulted in further lawsuits against the company.
The current level of automated driving technology is level three out of five.
Tesla’s Autopilot and Full Self-Driving Beta fall under level two.
The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) categorizes driving automation on a scale from Level 0 to Level 5. Currently, the highest level achieved is Level 3, where the car can self-drive under certain conditions. Tesla’s Autopilot and Full Self-Driving Beta fall under Level 2, which requires constant supervision from the driver. Despite being named “Full Self-Driving,” these systems still require the driver to be ready to take control of the vehicle at any time.
Mercedes has become the first automaker to introduce a Level 3 automated driving feature called the Drive Pilot. This feature allows the driver to engage in activities like playing games, browsing the web, or watching movies on the car’s front screen, as long as the driver’s face is visible to internal monitoring cameras. Mercedes has received government approval to deploy this feature on public roads in certain jurisdictions.
Ford’s BlueCruise and GM’s SuperCruise are considered better alternatives to Tesla’s Autopilot.
Other car manufacturers have significantly improved their ADA systems.
According to Consumer Reports, Tesla ranks at position 7 out of 15 ADAS systems currently on the market. Ford’s BlueCruise emerged as the top-rated system, followed by Cadillac Super Cruise and Mercedes-Benz Driver Assistance.
Ford’s BlueCruise and GM’s Super Cruise have received acclaim for their direct driver monitoring systems (DDMS), which increase driver engagement and reduce dependence on the ADAS. These systems use head and eye-tracking infrared cameras to monitor the driver’s face and issue warnings if the driver’s attention drifts away from the road. In comparison, Tesla’s Autopilot allows engagement even in unsafe conditions, and its monitoring system has been criticized for being less effective.
ADAS are not suitable for all driving conditions, especially at Levels 3 and below. They excel in specific scenarios like traffic jams or long highway drives but pose risks in others like crowded pedestrian areas or off-road settings. Therefore, it’s essential to incorporate mechanisms that communicate to the driver whether it is safe to engage the ADAS.
Tesla’s Autopilot has been known to engage even in unsafe road conditions, such as when there is a lack of clear lane markings. This can result in the car veering dangerously close to the edge of the road. Ford’s BlueCruise, on the other hand, requires the driver to keep their hands on the steering wheel and eyes on the road, providing an added layer of safety.
It’s worth noting that fully autonomous vehicles are not yet a reality from any major car manufacturer. User participation and engagement are still required in all current ADAS systems.
Tesla’s Approach to Competing in the Market
Tesla
Global car manufacturers like Ford, Toyota, Mercedes, GM, and Volkswagen have significantly improved their ADA systems.
Recent ADAS ratings position Tesla in the middle of the market.
Other global car manufacturers, including Ford, Toyota, Mercedes, GM, and Volkswagen, have made substantial advancements in their ADA systems, surpassing Tesla’s Autopilot and self-driving features. In recent tests, Ford’s BlueCruise ranked as the top-rated system out of 17 tested, followed by Cadillac Super Cruise and Mercedes-Benz Driver Assistance. Tesla now finds itself no longer leading the pack but positioned in the middle of the market.
Ford and Cadillac have surpassed Tesla in ADA systems and are rated among the top out of 17 tested vehicles (as of October 2023). Tesla is working on perfecting its ‘Vision’ ADA system, but it might be too little, too late for the company.
This change in market dynamics has brought urgency to Tesla, particularly at the leadership level. Tesla has transitioned to “Tesla Vision,” which relies on cameras around the vehicle instead of radar. The company claims that Model 3 and Model Y equipped with Tesla Vision have maintained or improved their safety ratings and pedestrian automatic emergency braking interventions compared to radar-equipped vehicles.
While other companies have caught up or surpassed Tesla in ADA systems, the competition poses a significant challenge. Tesla continues to strive for improvement, but only time will tell if they can regain their position as the market leader.
Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, has set a date for the first deliveries of the highly anticipated Cybertruck. While the exact number of reservations received by Tesla has not been disclosed, it is expected that company employees will have priority based on previous models like the Model 3. However, the long line of reservations and production challenges indicate that the wait for customers will likely be quite lengthy.
In Tesla’s third fiscal quarter report, it was revealed that the Giga Texas facility will have an initial pilot production capacity of 125,000 Cybertruck units per year. This number is expected to increase to 250,000 units in the future. However, achieving mass production capacity of this scale is projected to take until 2025.
Musk acknowledged the significant challenges involved in reaching volume production with the Cybertruck during an earnings call. Tesla is investing billions of dollars to bring this ambitious ride to the market. Meanwhile, potential customers have expressed concerns as Tesla’s website has removed all details regarding pricing and configurations.
While the company initially announced a sticker price of $39,900 for the single-motor RWD model, with the dual-motor and triple-motor versions priced around $60,000 and $70,000 respectively, these figures have not been officially confirmed. Kelley Blue Book estimates that the base variant could be priced around $50,000. This places the Cybertruck in the same price range as competitors like the Ford F-150 Lightning and the Chevy Silverado. The higher-spec versions of the Cybertruck are expected to compete in the market segment dominated by GMC and Rivian.
The Rimac Nevera, the fastest electric vehicle around the Nurburgring, has set new records, beating Tesla’s lap record by 20 seconds and achieving an EV record at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. However, to determine if the Nevera is faster than two high-performance motorcycles in a standing-start drag race, read on.
In a new video by Carwow, an exciting trio is brought together. The Nevera, equipped with four electric motors producing a total of 1,914 horsepower, is the only car participating in this race. Although incredibly powerful, it also happens to be the heaviest vehicle in this drag race, weighing 5,070 pounds (2,300 kilograms) due to its massive 120-kilowatt-hour battery pack.
Honda and its luxury brand Acura have confirmed that they will adopt Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS) charging connector in North America. The decision was announced by American Honda Motor Co. President and CEO Noriya Kaihara in an interview with Motor1.com. Kaihara emphasized the importance of pushing for the adoption of NACS: “It is quite important. We also have to push NACS, as well. It is clear.”
Specific details regarding when the first Honda and Acura all-electric models will feature NACS charging inlets are still unknown. However, Kaihara mentioned that it will depend on General Motors (GM). The first two all-electric Honda and Acura models will be based on GM’s Ultium platform and produced at GM’s plants. Therefore, the adoption of NACS by Honda and Acura will follow GM’s switch to the charging standard: “Maybe 2025 or 2026 timing,” Kaihara noted. “For ZDX… we clearly depend on GM. So once they do [switch to NACS], it will follow for ZDX after that.”
GM itself has already committed to transitioning from CCS1 to NACS starting in 2025, indicating a high possibility that Honda and Acura will be ready for NACS adoption by 2025 or 2026. However, initially, the first Honda Prologue and recently unveiled Acura ZDX battery electric vehicles (BEVs) will be equipped with the Combined Charging System (CCS1).
In addition to joining the NACS coalition, Honda is also developing its own platform for future all-electric models that will succeed the initial two Ultium-based BEVs. It is expected that these upcoming models will support NACS charging right from the start.
Furthermore, Honda, along with BMW Group, General Motors, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, and Stellantis, plans to establish a joint venture fast charging network in North America. The aim is to create a secure, reliable, and accessible charging infrastructure for electric vehicles.
Jay Joseph, American Honda’s Vice President of Sustainability and Business Development, highlighted the importance of reliable software and capable hardware for the new network: “The software needs to be really reliable and really open infrastructure so it communicates with every OEM’s software. The hardware needs to be capable of the highest levels of charging. It needs to be secure, it needs to be reliable, it needs to be accessible.” Joseph also emphasized the excellent maintenance of Tesla’s Supercharging network as an important aspect to consider for the new network’s success.
Tesla has set a major objective of achieving the first completely seamless autopilot experience in its modern vehicle line. The concept of self-driving cars has been a dream of science fiction for decades, making this goal commendable. However, Tesla’s vehicles have faced numerous failures and malfunctions in their pursuit of true autopilot, which has sparked controversy and investigations into the automaker’s self-driving “beta.”
According to the NHTSA, the recall was initiated because the Full Self-Driving Beta, both installed and pending installation, caused some Tesla vehicles to exceed speed limits or navigate intersections unlawfully or unpredictably, posing a significant risk of accidents.
While Tesla’s ambition to develop self-driving technology is admirable, the numbers speak for themselves: the technology is not yet fully road-ready, and the company’s insistence on including it has deterred drivers concerned about their own safety and the safety of others.
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