Issue 337 - Mass rollout of Tesla Semi is imminent

FSD

FSD v12.5.6.2 to improve "FSD is degraded"
According to Ashok, VP of AI software at Tesla, we should be seeing the new version of FSD 12.5.6.2 soon. One of the improvements in this version is a reduction in how often the car chimes when FSD is degraded. Based on the conversation, I assume the new version will also improve performance, reducing degradation in light drizzle conditions.

Tesla HW3 cars to get free hardware upgrades for Unsupervised FSD, Elon Musk on Q3 call
Elon Musk confirmed during Tesla's Q3 2024 Earnings Call that owners with Hardware 3 (HW3) equipped Teslas will get a free hardware upgrade if it's determined that HW3 cannot support Unsupervised Full Self-Driving (FSD). The upgrade is only for customers who purchased the FSD package, and while it may not be an upgrade to HW4 due to compatibility issues, it will likely be an improved HW3 or a HW3.5 version.

Tesla developing Apple Watch app as a digital key
Tesla is reportedly advancing its tech integration by working on an official Apple Watch app that will serve as a digital key for its vehicles. Spotted in hidden code within the latest iPhone app update, this new feature will allow Tesla owners to unlock their cars directly from their wrists, further enhancing convenience especially since the capability was previously limited to unofficial third-party apps. There's a buzz of anticipation for the official release date, which remains under wraps for now.

Charging and Energy

Tesla starts 'Oasis' Supercharger construction in California 📷
Tesla has initiated construction on the 'Oasis' Supercharger location in Lost Hills, California, set to become the world's largest Supercharger station with 168 stalls. Positioned strategically on the busy Interstate 5, between San Francisco and Los Angeles, the site spans 30 acres, incorporating sustainable energy solutions like an 11 MW solar array and 39 MWh of energy storage using Tesla's Megapacks. Anticipated to open by mid-2025, Oasis will cater to EV drivers' needs with facilities including at least 12 pull-through stalls for Tesla owners with trailers. The article contains some renders and photos of the construction site.

Tesla's Powerwall 3 add-on increases capacity & cuts install time
Tesla has enhanced its home energy offerings with the introduction of Powerwall 3 expansion units. This new addition not only enables customers to up their system's capacity by adding up to three expansion units per Powerwall, but it also promises to drastically reduce installation time. Highlighting the ease of deployment, Tesla demonstrates on their website that expansions can insert an extra 40.5 kWh per unit, shortening the setup process, which is integral to scaling up home energy storage solutions efficiently.

New Vehicles

Mass rollout of Tesla Semi is imminent
Lars, VP of Vehicle Engineering at Tesla, mentioned that the much-anticipated Tesla Semi—a game-changer for heavy goods transportation—is set to roll out en masse soon. He believes Tesla has made the Semi so compelling that companies not using it will be left behind. I can't wait to see more of these on the roads and fewer emissions all around!

Tesla Model Y Juniper refresh details surfaced 📷
The latest leaks of the Tesla Model Y 'Juniper' refresh provide enticing clues to its design, hinting at new lighting features such as a possible front light bar similar to the 'Cybercab' and an innovative rear lighting system. The form factor remains largely the same, with modifications focused on the front and rear, and speculation around interior quality improvements paralleling the recent Model 3 updates. Enthusiasts like Dominic, known for his accurate Model 3 concepts, align their newest interpretations with these intriguing sneak peeks, and I have to say, they look pretty good!

Service

Tesla to open world's largest sales and service center in Queens
Tesla is set to establish the world's most extensive sales, delivery, and service center in Queens, New York, with a sprawling 163,000-square-foot facility. The site will boast approximately 500 parking spaces, featuring 20 EV charging stations, set to begin construction in 2025. It's a bold move by Tesla, sure to make a splash in the Big Apple by substantially enhancing their local presence and customer support.

Robotaxi
Tesla robotaxi showcased at Giga Texas event 📹
After its unveiling at the 'We, Robot' event, the Tesla Robotaxi prototype made a public appearance at Giga Texas for the 'Frunk or Treat' event. Many pictures and videos posted on social media are linked in the article.

Palo Alto considers Tesla robotaxi partnership
Palo Alto is in talks with Tesla about incorporating its robotaxi technology into the local rideshare service Palo Alto Link, which is facing financial challenges. The City Council is contemplating funding extensions and price adjustments for the service, acknowledging its popularity despite operational losses. Meanwhile, regulatory approval and safety assessments of Tesla's autonomous technology remain an ongoing consideration for the potential partnership.

🤓 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
FSD: Full Self-Driving
HW3: Autopilot Hardware version 3, manufactured in/after February 2019 for Model S / Model X, and in/after April 2019 for Model 3
HW4: Autopilot Hardware version 4

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