Issue 353 - Cybertruck earns 5-star safety rating from NHTSA
Model Y
New Ultra Red Model Y unveiled at Tesla Meatpacking 📷
The Tesla Model Y is now available in a striking Ultra Red color, debuting in photos taken at Tesla's Meatpacking location in NYC, and it looks stunning!
First test drive in latest Model Y in rainy NYC 📹
Driving the new Model Y for the first time, this test drive showcases its smooth performance and quiet cabin, even in NYC's pouring rain. The vehicle features Full Self-Driving (FSD) version 13, handling tight turns and complex maneuvers seamlessly. Notable upgrades include headlights with cleaning mechanisms and a silent interior enhanced by the latest software.
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Tesla confirms US rollout of adaptive headlights for all models
Great news for Tesla owners in North America! Tesla's VP of Vehicle Engineering, Lars Moravy, confirms that adaptive headlights—already available in Europe—are set to roll out to U.S. vehicles soon, starting with the new Model Y. With regulatory approval now secured, this update promises significantly improved road safety by reducing glare for oncoming traffic and enhancing visibility for drivers.
Cybertruck
Tesla Cybertruck introduces new features: suspension, rockers, wheel caps
The Tesla Cybertruck is gearing up for some exciting additions this spring. Off-road enthusiasts can look forward to the launch of prototype off-road armor and rockers, set to become available by the end of March. Tesla has also confirmed a supply of wheel covers for early adopters, with a complimentary set of Cyber Wheel Caps being sent to those still waiting. Lastly, enhancements to the Cybertruck's air suspension controls are anticipated, which may introduce advanced functionalities to improve off-roading experiences.
Tesla increases Cybertruck discounts in the U.S.
Tesla is stepping up its discounts on the Cybertruck, offering up to $6,000 off certain models in the United States. This move aims to clear out 2024 model year inventory, especially as newer 2025 Cybertrucks, which qualify for a $7,500 federal tax credit, hit the market. While the 2025 models come with the tax break but no discounts, if that doesn’t matter much to you, the 2024 models present a solid deal for anyone considering a Cybertruck.
Tesla Cybertruck earns 5-star safety rating from NHTSA
The Tesla Cybertruck has officially earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This electric beast boasts the lowest probability of injury and the least chance of rollover among all pickup trucks tested by the NHTSA.
Model 3
Tesla to reinstate turn signal stalk on Model 3
In response to customer feedback, Tesla plans to reintroduce the turn signal stalk on the Model 3, following its return to the Model Y. While the move may surprise fans of the button-style signals used in vehicles like the Cybertruck, it's seen as a nod to drivers accustomed to more traditional controls. The updated stalk will be simplified, focusing on left and right signals, while other functions remain on the wheel or screen. Personally, I don't mind not having it in my Model 3.
Charging
Tesla to build Semi Megacharger station in southern California
Tesla is ramping up its charging infrastructure with its first public Megacharger station for the electric Semi in Southern California, near Carson. The station will feature 12 charging stalls, a lounge, and amenities, set to open on public land, though initially, it will serve Tesla's Semis. Tesla's V4 Supercharging cabinets, capable of remarkable charging speeds of up to 1.2MW will be used here. This development is part of Tesla's larger plan to expand the charging network for its growing fleet of electric trucks.
Under the hood
Tesla Model S standard range: resilient even after 250k miles 📹
A recent test by the Out of Spec team highlights the enduring performance of a 2019 Tesla Model S Standard Range, even after clocking over 250,000 miles. In challenging conditions with 20 mph winds and cool temperatures, the Model S showcased its efficiency by covering 203 miles on a 70 mph highway run, utilizing only 57.8 kWh from its original battery.
Understanding the differences: Tesla Intel Atom and AMD Ryzen MCUs
Tesla vehicles feature two key infotainment systems, the Intel Atom (MCU 2) and the AMD Ryzen (MCU 3), each offering distinct capabilities enhancing the driving experience. The MCU 2, built on the Intel Atom platform, was primarily featured in models between 2017 and 2022 but lacks some advanced features, like high-fidelity park assist and certain gaming functionalities. In contrast, the more recent MCU 3, powered by AMD Ryzen, has been standard since December 2021, boasting superior 3D visualizations and additional gaming, entertainment, and meeting capabilities. Identifying your Tesla's MCU type can be done through the vehicle's software settings, but regardless of your system, Tesla continues to offer upgrades to keep older vehicles functional.
🤓 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.
FSD: Full Self-DrivingWhat the acronym
MCU: Micro Controller Unit
NHTSA: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Regarding the 5-star "earned" rating, the motives of federal agencies should now be held as highly suspect to corruption, for reasons that should be obvious.
What is the best way to provide feedback to Tesla on issues with their cars -- and there are many problems with them. From what I can tell, the company offers no way to email them, call them, or send text messages, so how do drivers communicate? Your article in this email says they reinstated a stalk in response to customer feedback. How are we supposed to provide feedback?