Issue 304 - Cybertruck on snow tracks

Hardware Updates

No Model Y refresh planning this year in North America
Tesla sent the following talking points to their delivery advisors: "There is no refresh for Model Y launching this year." Honestly, I'm one of those who thought it was just a matter of months before Tesla unveiled a Model Y to match the changes in the Model 3, but they are probably going through a lot with the new Model 3, the performance version that hasn't even been revealed, and the Cybertruck, all presenting different challenges and needs on the factory line. I bet that if we see something this year, it will be either in Giga Shanghai or Giga Berlin.

Software Updates

Tesla update 2024.2.3 is improving phone keys by adding ultra-wideband support
Ultra-wideband (aka UWB) will improve how Tesla phone keys work; it's a more reliable technology than Bluetooth, provides a high-precision location, and consumes less energy. The not-so-great news is that not all Teslas will support this feature, given that they lack support for UWB. This update is bringing it to the new Model 3 as well as the 2023 Model X. According to the article, all Model S and X since the refresh (2021) as well as the Cybertruck will support it.

Cybertruck gets first major OTA software update (2024.2.3) 📷
In its first major software update, the Cybertruck is getting some features that we've seen in other models before, like custom lock sounds, Apple Podcast, and automatic 911 calls when it detects it has been involved in an accident. At the same time, it's getting improvements like improved ride and handling and more efficient charging for the 4680 cells that are currently exclusive to the Cybertruck and the Model Y made in Giga Texas.

Tesla approved to deploy adaptive headlight feature to Model S and Model X in Europe
We reported last week that they got the green light for the Model 3 and Y. This week, they received approval for the Model S and Model X. I believe we should see a software update releasing this feature to all supported cars soon.

Charging

Largest Supercharging station (yet) coming to California
According to the plans filed for the permit with Kern County, there is a 164-stall charging station coming soon to Kern County, California. In the plans, we can also see areas for future development. One can only hope Tesla builds another lounge like the one in Kettleman City there.

Geeking out

Want to see Tesla Giga Berlin? 📹
Really cool video moving around Giga Berlin, take a look.

Cybertruck on snow tracks 📹
Really insane mod by HeavyDSparks; he has mounted the Cybertruck on snow tracks and added super bright lights on top and front of the Cybertruck. He mentions he will be posting the first test drive on his YouTube very soon. We will keep an eye out for you!

Cyberbeast going 0-60 in 2.68s 📹
In this owner test, we can see the Cyberbeast going 0-60 in 2.68 seconds and covering the 1/4 mile in 11.85 seconds. Yup, the name checks out!

Secondhand

The price of secondhand EVs is dropping
As Tesla owners, we have seen the price of new cars fluctuating constantly, but in some cases dropping hard, like a Model S Plaid going from $135k at the end of 2022 down to $90k now. This has created a drop in used vehicles as well. According to an article by Bloomberg, secondhand Tesla Model 3s have declined 29.5% year-over-year and Model Ys 25.8%. This isn't great news for owners wanting to get rid of their cars, but it is for those looking for a secondhand one to get into EVs. And remember, buy the car because you want it and it seems fair at whatever price you buy it at; cars are not an appreciating asset.

🤓 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.

EV: Electric Vehicle
OTA: Over-the-air software updates
UWB: Ultra-wideband

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