Issue 401 - Tesla and Google to cut electricity costs
Semi
Semi logs 1.64 kWh per mile in 4,700-mile fleet trial
A Texas-based logistics company reports the Semi achieved 1.64 kWh per mile over 4,700 miles of real-world freight routes, beating both Tesla's estimates and earlier trial figures. This improved efficiency means lower operating costs and supports the idea that the Semi could deliver real savings for fleet operators.
Inside the new Semi: 10 cameras, new window design, and more 📹
New images of the production-ready Semi show a redesigned, driver-focused cabin with twin 16-inch touchscreens, improved window access, and 10 external cameras for enhanced safety and monitoring. Updates address practical driver needs, like relocated cupholders and expanded storage, while the truck itself delivers two trims at 325 or 500 miles of range, a notably light curb weight, and energy use of just 1.7 kWh per mile.
Semi nears production after winter testing, first LA Megacharger opens
The Semi program is nearing a critical milestone as the Nevada production facility is said to be nearly complete, with a launch event expected soon. The refreshed truck has passed winter testing, likely in Alaska, showing progress on real-world durability. A first LA-area Megacharger has also opened, marking another step in building the North American charging network for logistics fleets.
Model S & X
Model S and X wind down continues with referral cuts and factory shift
Steps are continuing to phase out Model S and Model X in the U.S., removing them from the referral program and halving existing loyalty discounts. Production of these flagships is set to end by mid-2026 as resources shift toward next-generation products like Optimus and Cybercab. The Model S has always been my favorite Tesla, it is sad to see it going away 😕
Cybercab
Cybercab mass public testing ramps up 📷
The Cybercab is moving swiftly toward mass production, with extensive public road testing around Giga Texas and California indicating a maturing validation process. The focus is on ramping volume output toward millions of units annually in the long term, though initial production will be slow as the platform is new. Notably, tactile Braille has been added on Cybercab controls, making the fleet more accessible for blind and visually impaired riders.
Production Cybercab revealed with cabin updates and rollout plans 📷
The production-ready Cybercab was unveiled in Washington, D.C., showing refinements like a huge 21-inch screen, a larger cabin camera, USB-C ports, a non-carpeted rear storage area, and a trunk camera to help prevent lost items. The minimalistic two-seat interior has no steering wheel or pedals, only an emergency stop and hidden door releases, while the exterior adds more durable door buttons and self-cleaning cameras. Mass production starts in April at Giga Texas, with initial units possibly shipping with steering wheels where required by law, signaling an aggressive move into fully autonomous ride-hailing.
Energy & Charges
Tesla and Google form ‘Utilize’ coalition to cut electricity costs
Tesla and Google are leading a new coalition called Utilize, alongside major partners like Carrier and SPAN, to make U.S. electricity more affordable by maximizing use of the existing power grid rather than building more infrastructure. The group is pushing for legislative changes to require utilities to disclose grid usage and prioritize smart storage, aiming to save consumers up to $180 billion over a decade.
App Updates
Hidden features in the latest app update: advanced trip planner, V2G, and insurance upgrades 📷
The latest app update hints at three meaningful upgrades: a more advanced trip planner called Voyager that could enable multi-stop, weather-aware routes from your phone; real-time vehicle-to-grid power management, allowing select vehicles to send electricity back to the grid; and streamlined Insurance features, including easier access to digital insurance cards.
App update 4.54.5 adds self-driving stats, Wall Connector upgrades, and more
The latest app update prepares to launch Self-Driving Stats, letting users view and share their FSD performance. Wall Connector management gets a visual overhaul with more details for each device, while Cybertruck owners gain new Powershare controls to prevent accidental battery drain and enable advanced home and grid energy features. There are hints of new seasonal charging badges as well, though these features are not all fully active yet.
Roadster
Roadster patent hints at radical seat redesign 📷
A new patent reveals an innovative seat design for the next-generation Roadster, following the strategy of reducing parts for efficiency and lighter weight. The Roadster is inching closer to its 2026 reveal after years of delays, aiming for hypercar performance at around $200,000.
🤓 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-Driving