Issue 349 - Tesla Model Y discounts in North America
CyberCab
A Tesla CyberCab with a steering wheel has been spotted at GigaTexas 📷
I guess they still have to validate things, and Tesla can’t just put cars on the road without a steering wheel or pedals just yet.
Model Y
Tesla Model Y discounts in North America prior to refresh
Tesla is offering significant discounts on the current Model Y inventory in North America as they prepare for the new refresh model launch. In Canada, discounts on the Long Range AWD can reach over $4,000, while US buyers can benefit from a combination of inventory discounts and federal tax credits, making some models cost just under $40,000. If you're considering purchasing a "legacy" Model Y, now might be a smart time to do so with these attractive deals.
Another angle of the refresh Model Y 📹
Check out this new video showing the Tesla Model Y refresh from a unique perspective. This clip reveals more of the sleek design updates.
Software updates
Tesla to add ultra-wideband support for Android devices
With great anticipation, Tesla is finally rolling out Ultra-wideband (UWB) support for Android phones. This enables more accurate phone tracking, enhancing phone key reliability and incorporating hands-free trunk functionality. The app update also hints at new NFC prompts, allowing easy vehicle access even with a depleted phone battery. Although the exact release date remains uncertain, this is great news for Android users.
Tesla HW3 not done yet, reversal feature incoming
Tesla's Hardware 3 (HW3) vehicles aren't obsolete yet, with exciting updates on the horizon. Elon Musk announced that future updates will allow HW3 vehicles equipped with FSD (Full Self-Driving) to reverse, a feature usually reserved for newer models. For now, some model updates clarify that HW3 isn't going anywhere, and the potential for further hardware retrofits leaves plenty of room for future advancements.
Hardware updates
Tesla working on cleaning solution for vehicle cameras
Tesla is in the process of developing a robust cleaning solution for its vehicle cameras, crucial for Autopilot and FSD functionality. This development arose from issues with camera obstructions on the Cybertruck, especially during off-road and wet conditions. The potential solutions might include automated spray systems or hydrophobic coatings, but Tesla hasn't confirmed if these will be available for existing vehicles or only new models.
Supercharger
Tesla prepares drive-in diner supercharger for launch
Tesla's Drive-In Diner Supercharger in Los Angeles is advancing towards launch, with exciting updates added to Tesla's smartphone app signaling progress. Set to include features like a diner offering food and drinks and movie clips projected on massive screens, visible in the app's 4.41.0 update with elements like 'DinerHomeScreen' and 'View menu & amenities.' Although the timeline remains unspecified, the inclusion of these updates indicates that Tesla is keen to bring this unique Supercharger experience to fruition soon. Can't wait!
Cybertruck
RWD Cybertruck may drop auto tonneau and AC outlets
The new Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) Cybertruck is positioned to be a more affordable Tesla option but might come without certain features found in the higher-end variants. Indications from a Tesla app decompile suggest the RWD model might lack the automatic tonneau cover and the convenient AC outlets that provide 120V and 240V power. While these changes aim at cost reduction, the presence of features like the manual tonneau and optional outlets would significantly benefit those using it as a "work truck."
Tesla discounts Cybertruck inventory in US for the first time
Tesla has begun offering inventory discounts on the unreleased Cybertruck models in the US, a first for their electric pickup. Discounts on brand-new Cybertrucks go as high as US$2,000, while demo units come with even larger price cuts of over US$3,300 depending on mileage. If you're considering a Tesla, using our referral link (http://ts.la/ignacio9266) can snag you an additional $1,000 off your purchase.
FSD
Experience with Tesla's supervised full self-driving on a demo drive
Zachary from Teslarati experienced Tesla’s Supervised Full Self-Driving (FSD) as part of a demo drive. Trying it out in a Model S, he was amazed by how FSD handled complex tasks like navigating busy roads and intersections without his input. Initially, it was unsettling to relinquish control, but the system gradually instilled a sense of trust in its capabilities, with only a handful of moments requiring Zachary’s intervention—often in unusual or unexpected traffic situations. Supervision is still crucial, even if fewer corrections are needed over time. For those of us who experience FSD every day, it’s great to read about how first-time users feel.
🤓 What the acronym
As a Tesla fan, I find myself sometimes having to remember what are all those acronyms, here is a list of the ones you can find in this issue.
AWD: All-Wheel Drive
FSD: Full Self-Driving