Tesla has big plans for the Cybercab, its all-electric, fully autonomous robotaxi that it plans to start building before 2027. Not only does it expect them to be ferrying around passengers across the United States before the end of the decade, but Elon Musk foresees a world where people could own multiple Cybercabs and manage a fleet of them.

At the car’s unveiled two months ago, one element that really captured the world’s attention was its bold design. Not only is it unlike any other Tesla to come before it, but it’s different from most other four-wheeled vehicles. Of course, that’s if you disregard the VW XL1 from 2013, but that’s another story. To provide us with a glimpse into the design of the Cybercab, Tesla design boss Franz von Holzhausen recently spoke with the Petersen Automotive Museum, where one of the EVs is on display.

Read: Tesla Cybercab Is A $30,000 Robotaxi Without A Steering Wheel Or Pedals

The discussions start at the rear of the car. Just like the Polestar 4, the Cybercab lacks a rear window. Von Holzhausen says that in a self-driving vehicle designed to ferry passengers from A to B, there’s really no need for occupants to see what’s going on behind them. By ditching a rear window, Tesla has also been able to make the storage compartment as large as possible.

For the first time in a Tesla, the Cybercab uses dihedral doors which are usually reserved for high-priced supercars. These doors make it feel like “you’re stepping into the future,” according to Von Holzhausen. The wheels feature solid aero discs aimed to maximizing efficiency. Tesla has also painted strips around the tires in the same shade as discs, making it seem like the wheels are bigger than they really are.

The EV’s interior is even more minimalist than other Tesla models. Dominating the cabin is a large central screen that’ll keep passengers entertained, and there are a pair of seats that look more reminiscent of lounge chairs than traditional car seats.

Whether or not the Cybercab will be a success remains to be seen. It’ll have to sell well, and for regulations concerning self-driving vehicles with no conventional controls like a steering wheel and pedals, which currently limit their permits to 2,500 per year, to change radically. If reports about incoming President Donald Trump’s intentions turn out to be accurate, this may actually happen sooner rather than later, as his transition team has allegedly said that crafting a federal framework for self-driving cars (and likely removing existing restrictions) is a “top priority”.

The Tesla Model Y is gearing up for its most significant update since its 2019 debut. Of course, by “significant,” we mean it’s still largely the same car—just with enough fresh bells and whistles to keep it reigning atop global sales charts. Now, a camouflaged prototype of the updated Model Y was spotted in California, coinciding with reports that production could kick off in China as early as next month.

More: Everything We Know About The Tesla Model Y Juniper

According to the latest information circulating in Chinese media including Sina, production of the facelifted Model Y, codenamed “Juniper”, is set to kick off in January 2025 at Tesla’s Shanghai plant. This aligns with Elon Musk’s earlier comments indicating that the facelifted Model Y wouldn’t launch in 2024. Reports also suggest that Tesla has already built prototypes in Shanghai as part of its preparations for full-scale production, signaling that the company is moving quickly to refine the next iteration of its best-seller.

A New Longer Six-Seater Variant For China

Tesla is expected to introduce two versions of the updated Model Y: a standard five-seat model, which offers an optional third row for two additional (and very small) passengers, and a longer-wheelbase six-seater variant designed exclusively for the Chinese market, set to arrive in the fourth quarter of 2025. Both versions will come with a range of exterior, interior, and mechanical updates to keep the Model Y fresh and competitive.

Read: Tesla Exec Confirms $30K Model Q For 2025, Deutsche Bank Report Claims

The redesigned bodywork of the Model Y is expected to echo the updates seen on the Model 3 ‘Highland’, featuring slimmer headlights and a more streamlined front bumper. In a recent spy video shared on X by photographer Colin W., the new DRLs (daytime running lights) can be seen glowing through a thick camouflage wrap. The prototype is also equipped with newly styled wheels. While the rear end remains fully covered, earlier spy shots revealed a full-width LED taillight bar with a frosted finish, adding a more modern touch to the design.

Video quality is uploaded at 720p because I don’t have Premium pic.twitter.com/WOQGFztBwN

— Colin W. (@Y2KColin) December 12, 2024

Bye, Bye Stalks

Inside, the Model Y is expected to ditch its wiper and turn signal stalks, along with the gear shifter, in favor of an even more minimalist design. However, it will gain a redesigned steering wheel, an infotainment display with slimmer bezels, more comfortable seats, multi-color ambient lighting, and an additional touchscreen for rear passengers to control climate settings, just like the Model 3 facelift.

More importantly, the EV will reportedly benefit from better-quality materials inside the cabin and improved NVH, courtesy of chassis and suspension upgrades. These will be likely joined by onboard technology upgrades too.

Battery and powertrain options should be carried over from the outgoing model, although a more powerful Model Y Performance trim sounds plausible, mirroring the specs of the Model 3.

More: New Tesla Models Crippled By AP4 Computer Failures, Breaking Essential Features

In the lead-up to the updated model’s release, Tesla has cut the price of the Model Y in China by an additional ¥10,000 ($1,370), dropping it to its lowest price ever. The move seems to be paying off: between January and November 2024, the Model Y was China’s best-selling vehicle, with 373,000 units sold, accounting for 73% of Tesla’s sales in the region.

Prospective Tesla Model Y buyers in the U.S. face a tough decision: wait for the updated model or buy the current version now to secure the $7,500 federal tax credit, especially with the possibility that the next administration may follow through on its promise to eliminate it.

Illustrations: Thanos Pappas for CarScoops

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has confirmed it’s looking into a recent fatal crash involving a Tesla Cybertruck that killed three teenagers in California late last month.

The accident occurred in the early hours of November 27 in Piedmont. Local police officers quickly responded to the scene and found the Cybertruck engulfed in flames. A witness pulled the sole survivor from the truck. All four occupants were 2023 graduates of the Piedmont High School who had returned home to celebrate Thanksgiving.

Watch: Tesla Cybertruck Crash Leaves Three Dead After Catching Fire

While recently speaking with Business Insider, a spokesperson from the NHTSA said the agency “is aware of the crash and is gathering information from the manufacturer and law enforcement.” The official noted that no formal investigation has been launched at this stage.

In the immediate aftermath of the crash, both the Piedmont Police Department and California Highway Patrol said they were looking into the cause of the crash. Piedmont police chief Jeremy Bowers suggested that speed likely played a role.

“It’s safe to say that speed was a factor. Now, are there other factors associated? That is certainly possible, but speed is likely a contributing factor to this collision,” he said. Police added there were no immediate signs that mechanical problems with the Cybertruck had contributed to the crash.

The Tesla caught fire soon after colliding with a cement wall and getting wedged between it and a large tree, but it’s currently unknown whether its high-voltage battery pack was the cause. While Piedmont fire chief Dave Brannigan said that it resembled a “typical car fire”, Bowers commented that it was “too intense” and the police officers, who tried to extinguish it, couldn’t. Eventually, fire crews put out the blaze.

This was the second fatal accident involving a Tesla Cybertruck in the US. The first occurred in early August when a man driving his electric pickup crashed near Beach City in Chambers County, Texas, slamming into a concrete culvert and triggering a fire.

Lead screenshot ABC7/YouTube

What do Tesla fanatics and Dodge enthusiasts have in common? At first glance, not much, except now, they both have something to argue about. Meet the Dodge Model S Plaidcat—or is it the Tesla Challenger Helldrive? Call it whatever you like, but this Dodge Challenger Hellcat has swapped its thunderous V8 underpinnings for the quiet, yet disturbingly powerful, electric might of a Tesla Model S Plaid.

The once-unthinkable body swap is the brainchild of BoostedBoiz, a YouTube channel with nearly 1.4 million subscribers, and it’s sure to raise some serious eyebrows in both camps.

The Unholy Union of Tesla and Muscle

This Frankenstein build began when the BoostedBoiz team bought a wrecked Tesla Model S Plaid, initially intending to convert it into the ultimate sleeper by dropping the powertrain into a Honda Odyssey minivan. However, a few geometry-related hurdles, mainly the Odyssey’s proportions and alignment issues, led them to rethink the project. A Tesla Model X Plaid provided a more fitting base for that build, freeing up the Model S Plaid’s drivetrain for another mad experiment.

Kyle Wade, the man behind BoostedBoiz, came up with a new plan when he noticed that the 116.5-inch (2,959 mm) wheelbase of the Tesla Model S Plaid aligns almost perfectly with the Dodge Challenger (116.2 inches / 2,952 mm). If that doesn’t sound like a recipe for controversy, we don’t know what does. Hardcore Hellcat fans, will likely be rolling their eyes at this one, unless, of course, Dodge has already talked them into the idea of an electric Daytona.

The next step was to purchase a Challenger shell, which cost just $700. As expected, plenty of cutting was needed to make the Dodge body fit onto the Tesla chassis. The similar width of both cars meant the team had to trim parts of the structure on each model. Fortunately, everything aligned in the end, athough the height of the Tesla’s rear shock towers came dangerously close to piercing the Dodge’s rear glass.

More: 2024 Dodge Charger Shows Its Wild Side In Widebody And Demon Renders

Once the fitment was sorted, BoostedBoiz sourced the missing body panels from Dodge Challenger Hellcats, while preserving as much of the original Tesla Model S Plaid interior as possible—including the dashboard, yoke steering wheel, and front bucket seats. The transformation was finalized with the addition of lightning units and Hellcat badges, though a widebody kit may be added in the future to further spice things up.

Tech Meets Torque: The Numbers Game

Weighing in at 4,330 lbs (1,964 kg) or a solid 600 pounds lighter than the original Model S Plaid (4,932lbs / 2,237 kg), this electrified Challenger packs a tri-motor powertrain with 1,020 hp (760 kW / 1,033 PS) and a staggering 1,050 lb-ft (1,423 Nm) of torque. For context, that’s enough muscle to make the drag strip your personal playground. The big question is whether this electric beast can challenge the 8.91-second quarter-mile record of the stock Challenger SRT Demon 170. We’ll be watching closely.

Setting aside the numbers, there’s no doubt the Tesla-powered Dodge will turn heads on the streets, especially when bystanders experience its silent powertrain and impressive acceleration. And when you think about it, the conversion doesn’t seem all that wild, especially considering the upcoming replacement for the discontinued Challenger is the new fully electric Dodge Charger.

Photos: BoostedBoiz / YouTube and Kyle Wade / Instagram

Dashcam footage from a multi-story parking lot in New South Wales, Australia, has captured the shocking moment a Tesla Model S went rogue, careening into multiple vehicles before launching through a barrier and plummeting to the level below. If you’re expecting the usual “driver error” explanation, you might want to think again. This one’s still a mystery.

The crash occurred last Saturday at a DFO mall in New South Wales, Australia. A video shows the Model S initially slamming into the front of Toyota LandCruiser Prado, briefly lifting it into the air and spinning it around. The Tesla then continues to speed across the parking lot, hitting the car with the dashcam. Just two seconds later, it can be heard smashing into the barrier and falling to the pavement.

Read: Tesla Cybertruck Crash Leaves Three Dead After Catching Fire

Despite the severity of the multiple impacts, the 59-year-old driver and 68-year-old passenger were not seriously injured, although they were transported to hospital for treatment.

The damage to the Model S was extensive. The front end was nearly unrecognizable, the tailgate and rear window were shattered, and one of the wheels was ripped off entirely. It’s not every day you see a car come apart like that without some sort of catastrophic failure at play.

No official cause for the crash has been given at this stage, but officers from the New South Wales police force are investigating. The wrecked Model S has also been taken to a garage to have its electronics checked to determine the cause of the crash. It’s unclear if the 59-year-old male driver was in complete control of the car at the time or if it suffered some kind of mechanical and software-related failure.

Numerous crashes involving Teslas in the United States have been blamed on the carmaker’s Autopilot driver assistance systems, but it would be highly unusual if the driver had tried to enable the system in the parking lot. Nevertheless, the cause of this particular incident is still under investigation, and it’s important to determine whether it was related to the vehicle or driver to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Ten years ago, the idea that two startups would be producing the two most compelling electric pickup trucks on the market would have been inconceivable. However, here we are in 2024 with the Tesla Cybertruck and Rivian R1T leading the charge in the electrification of one of America’s most iconic and popular vehicle segments. But, which of the two is best?

Both the Cybertruck and R1T have their own unique pros and cons so when Motor Trend recently got its hands on the duo, it decided to focus purely on pulling power, arranging the trucks together for a tug of war. However, this tug of war was not performed on the pavement where the Tesla and Rivian would have the best opportunity to put their power to the ground. Instead, it was done on dirt.

Read: Rivian Wants To Give You 3,000 Reasons To Move On From Gasoline

On paper, the flagship Cyberbeast and Rivian R1T Tri-Motor are very evenly matched. A pair of powerful electric motors give the Tesla 845 hp and 864 lb-ft (1,171 Nm) of torque, whereas the trio of motors in the R1T combine to churn out 850 hp and 1,103 lb-ft (1,495 Nm). Both also have max claimed towing capacities of 11,000 lbs (4,989 kg).

As the drivers of the two trucks plant down on the throttles, the two cars start to dig holes in the dirt and pull each other slightly back and forth. The Rivian ultimately does a little better and pulls the Cybertruck a little closer to the line.

A second tug-of-war was also performed. Once again, the Tesla and Rivian performed just as well as each other. Both were ferociously spinning up their wheels as the drivers attempted to gain an advantage. Ultimately, the R1T was awarded the victory, although it only had the slightest of advantages over the Cyberbeast.

Few cars have ever divided opinions quite like the Tesla Cybertruck. Its polarizing design isn’t even up for debate—some love its sci-fi aesthetic, while others can’t stand its unpolished looks comparing it with a child’s drawing brought to life. Regardless of which side you’re on, there’s no denying that it has helped pave the way for other electric pickups. However, it’s also proven to be riddled with problems and videos recently shared to TikTok appear to suggest the wheels might be more fragile than expected.

Earlier in the year, Tesla had to fix the standard aero covers on the Cybertruck’s wheels after it was revealed they were chewing into the tire sidewall. However, this latest potential problem isn’t related to the wheel covers, but instead the alloy rims themselves. More specifically, the wheels of this Cybertruck have shattered in a rather bizarre way, leading to speculation that they may not be as durable as they should be.

Read: Sixth Time The Charm? Tesla Cybertruck Recalled Over Loss Of Drive Power

It’s unclear what exactly caused the wheels to snap off like that. Some believe it could have been caused by a pothole, though this type of damage seems unlikely to result from something so minor. Other viewers speculate that the impact may have been with the concrete wall visible in the videos, but one would have expected more damage to the side of the car if this was the case.

@jordan8tatum

Even in a crash the Cybertruck Rims shouldn’t crumble 🤷🏾‍♂️🤔 #cybertruck #JordanNTatum #fail

♬ original sound – Jordan & Tatum

What’s clear is the extent of the damage. Many of the spokes on the front wheel have broken off and cracks are visible around the central part that connects to the hub. The damage done to the rear wheel is even more extensive, as the entire rim has broken off from the hub, except for some material around the lug nuts.

It could be that the wheels of the Cybertruck are made from cast aluminum. Most cars on the market leave the factory with cast aluminum wheels as they are relatively inexpensive, but inconsistencies in the materials used during the manufacturing process can make them weak. More premium rims are forged and, in addition to being much stronger, are also significantly lighter.

Perhaps one of the reasons why the rims of this Cybertruck failed so spectacularly is because the electric pickup weighs over 6,600 lbs in its lightest configuration, or more than 3,000 kg, which puts extra stress on some components, such as the wheels and tires.

The person who posted the two videos on TikTok writes that the Tesla has a problem and should be recalled. However, without any more info, it’s impossible to determine whether this is a widespread issue impacting other Cybertrucks too or not.

@jordan8tatum

I seriously think the Cybertruck Rims need a recall! Have yall ever seen a rim snap off in a perfect circle? #cybertruck #fail #explore

♬ original sound – Jordan & Tatum

Image Credit: jordan8tatum / TikTok

Take a drive in a new Tesla—say, the freshly updated Model 3 Highland—and you might notice something amiss. No, it’s not the autopilot fanfare or the borderline obsessive minimalism, but the humble turn signal stalk. In its ongoing quest to simplify, save a buck, or perhaps acclimate us all to a stalk-free Cybertruck future (take your pick), Tesla has migrated the turn signal controls to touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel.

But if you’re longing for the good old tactile days, fear not: a company dedicated to bringing back physical controls has launched a retro-style solution, appropriately named the S3XY Stalks.

More: Everything We Know About The 2025 Tesla Model Y Facelift

This product that was introduced today comes from Enhance Auto. If that name sounds familiar, it’s because the brand already makes other popular physical button components for various Tesla cars. One of its creations is the S3XY Knob, a physical interface that rests in the center console. It’s been working on the stalks for months.

Easy Installation

The cool thing about these stalks is that, unlike other aftermarket options we’ve seen for the latest Model 3 Highland, they don’t require disassembly of the steering wheel. This avoids potential warranty issues and eliminates the headache of dealing with parts that don’t receive software updates. Instead, the stalks simply attach to the steering column and communicate via Bluetooth with a Commander unit mounted on the A-pillar via Bluetooth.

The S3XY stalks sit where one would expect them, on each side of the steering wheel. Once attached, the user can simply flick them up or down to light up a turn signal. Users can customize what the stalks do and add an additional action available via a button on the end of each stalk. The commands from the stalks go to what Enhance calls the Generation 2 Commander and then to the car.

According to Enhance, the stalks feature a replaceable battery designed to last at least a year with typical use. While the current version is tailored for the 2024+ Model 3 Highland, the company has announced that compatible versions for the Model S and Model X are in development and expected to launch in April 2025.

Based on videos showing the stalks in action, it appears as though this is a seriously top-notch upgrade. The design is clean, blends into the cabin as though it were a factory option, and the reaction time seems to be just as quick as it should be.

Pricing And Availability

According to Enhance, the S3XY Stalks are available for pre-order today (Nov 29) for $343.69 or $363.69 depending on the Tesla one owns. Notably, it appears as though the only option available to pre-order right now is the full package. That includes both stalks, the Gen2 Commander, wiring, and cleaning wipes.

At the same time, the company claims that at some point soon, buyers will be able to pick up either stalk individually or both stalks but without the Gen2 Commander. That should cut costs for those who might already have other Enhance products that include the commander already. Shipments begin in February of 2025.

A Problem No One Asked For

It’s a simple solution to fix what can only be described as a dumb idea—one that probably should never have made it past an over-caffeinated engineering brainstorming session. It’s right up there with the decision to ditch the $3 rain sensor in favor of using cameras for auto wipers (just ask Tesla owners how well that turned out). Whether the S3XY Stalks deliver on their promise, we’ll find out soon enough once they land in the hands of real-world users.

In the meantime, check out some videos below of other existing solutions for adding stalks to the Model 3 Highland, which required disassembly of the steering wheel.

Image Credit: Enhance

A crash involving a Tesla Cybertruck has left three people dead and one seriously injured in the northern Californian city of Piedmont

The incident occurred in the early hours of Wednesday morning. Police were first alerted to the accident when the iPhone of one of the occupants automatically sent out an SOS at 3:08 a.m., pinpointing the crash’s coordinates. Just two minutes later, officers arrived on the scene to find the electric truck completely engulfed in flames. Local fire crews were quick to respond, arriving at 3:16 a.m., but the damage was already catastrophic.

Read: Elon Musk Boasts About Tesla Cybertruck’s Strength After Devastating Crash

While speaking with the media, Piedmont fire chief Dave Brannigan said that a witness managed to pull the sole survivor from the wrecked Cybertruck before flames consumed the vehicle. The survivor was transported to the hospital, where they remain in critical condition after undergoing surgery. While the extent of their injuries has not been disclosed, their survival is nothing short of remarkable given the destruction at the scene.

The exact cause of the crash is still under investigation, but Piedmont police chief Jeremy Bowers hinted that speed likely played a central role.

“It’s safe to say that speed was a factor. Now, are there other factors associated? That is certainly possible, but speed is likely a contributing factor to this collision,” he said, adding there were currently no signs mechanical problems caused the crash.

“We’re very new into this investigation – the California Highway Patrol, us, the Piedmont Fire Department – so there’s no indication that there were mechanical effects that were the primary cause for the collision,” Bowers added. “All that is still very much under investigation at this point.”

The Cybertruck veered off the road, jumped a curb, and smashed into a cement wall before becoming wedged between the wall and a large tree. The impact was so severe that the vehicle caught fire shortly after. Despite initial speculation about Tesla’s lithium-ion battery packs being the cause, Brannigan noted that the blaze resembled a “typical car fire” and was extinguished quickly by local firefighters.

Police have not yet released the names of the victims, but local news outlets, including CBS News Bay Area, have reported that all four occupants were 2023 graduates of Piedmont High School. The group was home for Thanksgiving, visiting family and friends during the holiday break.

Lead screenshot ABC7/YouTube

Plenty of Tesla Cybertrucks descended upon Las Vegas last week for SEMA, but the most dramatic of them all was brought to life by a Florida-based shop you’ve likely never heard of: Reds Miami. It has built what appears to be the world’s first Cybertruck dually, and it’s bound to divide opinions.

More often than not, dually setups are limited to hefty Heavy Duty pickups, but given all the buzz around the Cybertruck, it was only a matter of time before someone decided to bolt on two extra wheels at the rear. Tesla’s polarizing pickup truck was converted into a dually just a few days before SEMA.

Read: You Can Lease A Tesla Cybertruck For $1,249 A Month, But Would You?

The new wheels chosen for the Tesla were produced by Diesel Wheels and measure a huge 26-inch at the rear while wrapped in 35-inch tires. A set of bespoke fender flares then had to be crafted for the EV and much to our surprise, they actually suit the design of the Tesla quite well.

This project wasn’t simply a matter of bolting on the extra wheels and the new arches, however. As standard, the Cybertruck’s charging port is located on the driver’s side rear wheel arch, so new cabling had to be run to accommodate the flared fenders. The Tesla is also equipped with rear-wheel steering. Apparently, this functionality has been retained, although we suspect the extra weight of the two additional 26-inch wheels may put a little bit of extra strain on the system.

Then there’s the range. Fitting huge wheels on an EV can have a noticeable impact on the driving range, as can all-terrain tires. There’s no word on how much this Cybertruck’s range has been cut by, but for some, any reduction in range will be more than worth it for the wild looks.

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A post shared by Pj (@pjtruckin)

A Cybertruck owner became so frustrated at Tesla’s inability to deal with a problem with his electric truck that he took matters into his own hands and fixed it with a $13 DIY part.

Jay Larson, an Arizona-based podiatrist, posted on his MyCybertruckLife X account about how he was moved to act after being disappointed with a Tesla’s dealers attempts to fix a wind noise issue on his pickup. The truck, which has been perfectly quiet when he first bought it, began making a high-pitching whistling noise after its bulletproof windshield was replaced due to a factory defect.

Related: Tesla Delays Cybertruck Range Extender Battery To “Mid-2025”

Larson was adamant that the Cybertruck hadn’t been making the noise before the screen swap so went back to his dealer in Tempe, Arizona expecting the technicians to put it right. They made one attempt, telling Larson the problem was gone, but he disagreed, so asked them to take another look.

This time they told him that the noise was normal for a Cybertruck and that they couldn’t replicate the sound he was complaining about even at highway speeds. And for those reasons they said there was no available fix despite Larson insisting that it was fine with the original windshield. A classic case of “they all do that, sir.”

Not happy with that answer and still irritated by the wind whistle, Larson began casting around for his own solution. And he found it on Amazon, where he purchased a roll of 9 mm silicone weather stripping that perfectly fitted the gap at the top of the windshield. He removed some of the backing from the adhesive strip, but not all of it, saying that the weather seal was so snug it didn’t need much adhesive. He also had a hunch that it might have been trickier to fit if all of the adhesive surface had been exposed.

Larson says the truck is now whisper-quiet, even at 90 mph (145 km/h), and cost him only $12.99 to fix. But he shouldn’t have had to spend a penny.

Anyone else have a high pitching wind noise in their Cybertruck?? Tesla service center in Tempe AZ said it was normal but I didn’t have the noise before they replaced my windshield so after 2 trips to the service center with no improvement I fixed it myself. @elonmusk @Tesla… pic.twitter.com/1rMnoFXRqT

— MyCybertruckLife (@jaylarsondpm) October 24, 2024

Image credits: Amazon, Jay Larson (@jaylarsondpm)

Believe it or not but it’s been more than seven years since the second-generation Tesla Roadster was unveiled, and despite several assurances from Elon Musk that it’s coming, it appears interested customers still have some time to wait before getting their hands on the new electric sportscar.

The new Roadster is supposed to serve as the halo of the Tesla range and went first announced, was announced with a $250,000 price tag. Many interested customers even placed $250,000 deposits on the car. But, rather than focusing on bringing the car to the market, Tesla has been side-tracked with other projects, such as the Semi, the Cybertruck, and now, the forthcoming Cybercab and Robovan.

Read: Tesla Roadster Delayed For 2025, Musk Promises 0-60 Blast-Off In Under 1 Second

While speaking during Tesla’s latest quarterly earnings report, Musk apologized to the “long-suffering deposit holders” of the Roadster but indicated it’s simply not as important as some of the brand’s other projects, hence why it continues to be delayed.

“I’d just like to thank our long-suffering deposit holders of the Tesla Roadster. The reason it hasn’t come out yet is because the Roadster is not just the icing on the cake, it’s the cherry on the icing on the cake,” he said. “Our larger mission is to accelerate the progress towards a sustainable energy future, try to do things that maximize the probability the future is good for humanity and for Earth. That necessarily means that the things like that are kind of like dessert.”

“We’d all love to work on the next-gen Tesla Roadster, it’s super fun, and we are working on it, but it has to come behind the things that have a more serious impact on the good of the world. So thank you to all our long-suffering Tesla Roadster deposit holders, and we are actually finally making progress on that. We’re close to finalizing the design on that, it’s really going to be something spectacular.”

Musk revealed earlier this year that Tesla plans to begin production of the Roadster in 2025. While he hasn’t said if this date has been pushed back once again, it’s certainly possible Tesla’s continued development of the mass-scale Cybercab could lead to more delays for the Roadster.

There were plenty of talking points after the Tesla Cybercab’s glitzy unveiling a couple of weeks ago and one of the more interesting topics relates to how the carmaker plans to charge the all-electric robotaxi.

Take a look at the photos published by Tesla of the self-driving two-seater and you’ll notice it does not have a charge port. That’s not an accident. The Cybercab will be produced at scale without a charging port, meaning it cannot use the carmaker’s expansive network of Superchargers. Instead, the Cybercab can only be charged wirelessly.

Read: Musk’s Cybercab Dreams Could Hit 2,500-Unit Limit Under US Rules

During the car’s presentation, Tesla teased it using inductive charging and recently shared a clip on X that shows it charging at 25 kW. That’s impressive for inductive charging and is much quicker than the standard 11.5 kWh provided by Tesla’s Wall Connector. Of course, it is much slower than most public chargers, including Tesla’s V4 Superchargers, which can charge at up to 350 kW.

Responding to this clip, technology reviewer Marques Brownlee indicated there’s no way Tesla can make an inductive charging system that isn’t inefficient, noting that “wireless charging has a massive heat waste,” and suggesting that a “really noble goal for something like this would be maybe 75% efficiency.” Tesla responded to this claim, stating it’s achieved efficiency that “is well above 90%”, while Elon Musk claimed that “there is no meaningful efficiency difference between inductive and conductive charging if the system is designed right.”

Hold up, it doesn't even touch the car? Genuinely asking, is there a way this *couldn't* be inefficient? https://t.co/PrfDNZDg0v

— Christian Selig (@ChristianSelig) October 18, 2024

Efficiency is well above 90%

— Tesla (@Tesla) October 19, 2024

If true, that would be quite an impressive feat. Last year, Tesla quietly purchased a German company specializing in wireless charging technologies for a reported $76 million. That company, Wiferion, had claimed to have developed a wireless charging solution that achieves 93% efficiency.

Although the Cybercab may achieve a breakthrough in wireless charging, not adding a plug seems shortsighted. Tesla wants to establish a huge fleet of robotaxis but none of them can use existing Superchargers, nor any other public charging network. This means Tesla will need to either update its Superchargers to include wireless charging pads specifically for the Cybercab, or the onus will be placed on owners to charge their robotaxis at home with a charging pad.

There is no meaningful efficiency difference between inductive and conductive charging if the system is designed right.

There is always an inductor somewhere in the charge circuit!

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 19, 2024

Drag races are great for seeing how fast a car can accelerate, but a U-drag race tests braking and cornering too. Now, Tesla and Lucid are going head to head with their most potent sedans ever. These are two dramatically different cars but each boasts a four-figure horsepower claim and the performance to back that up.

Tesla’s Model S Plaid packs 1,020 horsepower (760 kW) and the example in this video has the optional $20,000 track pack that includes bigger brakes for better stopping power. The Lucid Air Sapphire comes standard with 1,234 horsepower (920 kW) and multiple track modes including drag strip, hot lap, and endurance. The Air also has some 400 lb-ft (541 Nm) of additional torque.

More: Lucid Air Sapphire Makes A Dodge Demon 170 Look Slow

In race one of this Edmunds U-Drag, we see the Lucid leverage every bit of its extra power and twist to get out to a lead early. In fact, it’s powerful enough that it keeps that lead all the way through the quarter of a mile and into the first turn. Despite having huge brakes, the Tesla can’t reel the Lucid in enough at the bend and the Air Sapphire takes off for the finish line with lots of room between the sedans.

Race two plays out largely the same but with one key differentiator. The Tesla actually begins to reel in the Lucid on the back straight but isn’t quick enough to catch it before the end. Still, it’s an interesting result given that the Lucid has a top speed north of 200 mph (322 km/h). Don’t feel too bad if you’re a big Tesla fan though. This set of races set a new U-Drag record.

In fact, the Lucid Air Sapphire is so quick at this test that it’s a full 1.7 seconds faster than the second-place car, a McLaren 765LT. For its part, the Tesla managed fourth overall, losing to both the 765LT and to a McLaren 750S with a best time of 29.8 seconds.

Image Credit: Edmunds

A few years ago, Tesla was being fiercely criticized for rolling out driver-assistance technologies without any effective driver-monitoring system. It didn’t take long before videos emerged of drivers sleeping behind the wheel, putting all their faith in the car’s onboard systems and sensors.

Tesla eventually introduced driver monitoring, but based on a recent clip that surfaced on Reddit, it doesn’t stop some from behaving irresponsibly.

The video, filmed on a highway somewhere in the States, shows a red Tesla Model 3 cruising along with a sunshield completely blocking the windshield. It seems as if the driver decided it would be a good idea to have a rest and let the car do all of the driving.

Watch: Video Shows Tesla Mistaking Teddy Bear For A Driver And Hitting A (Fake) Kid

In the clip, the Model 3 can be seen driving in the center of the highway and at one stage, approaches a slower-moving Toyota Prius and automatically changes lanes. It then cruises past the occupants of the car filming and it looks as though the owner has stuck old newspaper to the side windows to block out as much of the sun as possible. We don’t actually get a chance to see the driver.

It’s hard to know how the driver has managed to trick the car’s monitoring system. There are devices sold online that clip onto the steering wheel and apply enough torque to it, allowing for a ‘hands-free’ experience.

However, all Model 3s are fitted with a cabin camera that’s used to determine driver inattentiveness and provide audible warnings to remind drivers to keep their eyes on the road when Autopilot is engaged. In theory, this should be enough to prevent drivers from doing things as dangerous as this.

Video Reddit

The motorists who filmed this Tesla Model 3 noted the car’s license plate and, hopefully, alerted the appropriate authorities to what they’d seen. While Tesla’s marketing of Autopilot and its Full-Self Driving systems has long been controversial, owners need to remember that even with these technologies enabled, they must remain attentive at all times.

Image credit: Slimanna/reddit

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So, Tesla finally did it. After years of wild speculation, Twitter teasers, and a few timeline “adjustments” from Elon, the company has officially pulled the covers off its long-rumored robotaxi. The vehicle, officially named the Cybercab, draws design inspiration from the Cybertruck, and unlike many other robotaxi prototypes unveiled over the past few years, this Tesla will actually be available for private consumers to buy.

Read: Rimac’s Verne Robotaxi Is A Sporty 2-Seat Coupe With Sliding Doors And No Steering Wheel Or Wipers

The Cybercab is packed with Tesla’s latest autonomous driving tech, and about 20 units were on display at the event, giving attendees a chance to experience test rides. Tesla’s eccentric billionaire boss, Elon Musk, claimed production will kick off in 2026, though during the live unveiling, he was quick to admit he tends to be “optimistic” with timelines. To cover his bases, Musk clarified that production will begin before 2027, and it should be available to purchase for less than $30,000.

Steering-Wheel-Free Future?

Since the Cybercab has been conceived without a steering wheel or pedals, Tesla won’t be able to start manufacturing or selling it to customers without securing regulatory approval first. As expected of any new Tesla model, the interior is extremely minimalist, offering seating for two and featuring a large central infotainment screen, seemingly lifted straight out of a Model 3 or Model Y.

Butterfly Doors

Like the electric Cybertruck, the Cybercab’s exterior is dominated by a single full-width LED light bar across the front end that gives it a futuristic look. You’ll also spot some familiar Tesla shapes and lines on the outside, including sharp creases running over the hood and the pronounced rear shoulders that echo the Model Y. However, there’s one standout feature not seen in any other Tesla model: the supercar-inspired butterfly doors. In theory, they should help with ingress and egress, but we’ll see how practical that turns out in a Whole Foods parking lot.

Tesla’s obsession with aerodynamics is alive and well, with solid aero covers on the wheels to help squeeze out a few more miles of range. At the rear, you’ll find a super-thin light bar that, unsurprisingly, takes design cues straight from the Cybertruck playbook. And since this car is built for full autonomy, there’s no need for outdated relics like wing mirrors or even a rear window—who needs to look back when your car drives itself?

The company is still playing coy when it comes to the Cybercab’s powertrain. No specific details have been revealed about how far it can go on a single charge, which seems like a pretty critical piece of info for a robotaxi designed to be in constant, all-day use.

Bonus Round: Tesla Robovan

Just when everyone thought it was over, Musk hit us with a curveball—a surprise second reveal called the Robovan. It’s Tesla’s vision of an all-electric, fully autonomous bus that can hold up to 20 passengers in comfort or serve as a van to transport goods. Like the Cybercab, few technical details were provided about the vehicle, but Musk did confirm that it would use the firm’s most advanced self-driving tech, relying on a vision-only system. There’s no steering wheel or pedals here either, just a wide-open, spacious cabin with plenty of seating.

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Clearly, the most radical aspect of the Robovan is the exterior design. Looking like a futuristic pod out of a science fiction film, it has large glass side panels and LED lighting both front and rear. Musk said it’ll be part of the upcoming ‘Tesla Network,’ an autonomous ride-hailing service, but as with all things Tesla, production timelines and pricing remain mysterious.

And there you have it: Tesla’s latest attempt to take over your driveway—and the future—one autonomous pod at a time. Now it’s your turn—drop your thoughts in the comments and let us know where you stand on this fleet.

One of the first Tesla Cybertruck imported from the US to Europe has been approved for road use in the Czech Republic. However, safety groups aren’t convinced. Despite the required modifications, they sent a letter to the local government expressing serious concerns about the electric truck’s shape, weight, and size. Apparently, they believe that having a vehicle shaped like a giant, unyielding wedge might not be the safest choice on the roads.

To gain approval as a privately imported vehicle, the Cybertruck’s infamous sharp edges were reluctantly dressed with rubber moldings, an attempt to make it slightly less dangerous for pedestrians—though one wonders if anyone actually feels safer. Additionally, the LED headlights and taillights were tweaked with yellow indicators to align with European regulations.

More: Tesla Cybertruck’s ‘Guillotine’ Panels Can Chop Off Carrots, But What About Your Fingers?

According to the owner’s post on X (ex-Twitter), the EV was registered on July 12 after what he called a “difficult journey.” But the real difficulty may just be beginning, as seven safety organizations believe the Cybertruck never should have been allowed on Czech roads in the first place. They’ve highlighted irregularities in the approval process, suggesting it wasn’t quite the model of regulatory scrutiny one would hope for.

Irregularities in the Weight

The groups lodged a complaint with Martin Kupka, the Czech Republic’s Minister of Transport, and the European Commission, setting their sights on removing the Cybertruck from public roads. Their letter points out that the EV was registered with a maximum weight of 3.5 tons (7,716 pounds)—a figure that conveniently undercuts the 4,007-4,159 kg (8,834-9,169 pounds) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating listed in the owner’s manual.

🇨🇿Tak a je to, dneškem oficiálně máme registrovaný PRVNÍ CYBERTRUCK v ČR, byla to náročná cesta, ale zvládli jsme to a nyní už můžeme rozdávat radost i v Česku s tímto revolučním vozem

🇺🇸 So that's it, today we have officially registered the FIRST CYBERTRUCK in the Czech… pic.twitter.com/CSKk0fR8cm

— CyberTruck.cz (@CybertruckEU) July 12, 2024

Campaigners argue that even at this seemingly deflated weight, the truck fails to meet regulations for the N1 category when fully loaded. European laws require heavy vehicles to be fitted with speed limiters, a rule that seems to have been overlooked in this case.

Pedestrian Safety

The letter doesn’t stop there. It highlights the truck’s enormous footprint, expansive blind spots, lack of crumple zones, and extreme acceleration, all of which they say pose a real danger to pedestrians and other road users. For these reasons, campaigners argue that the Tesla Cybertrucks currently on European roads should be de-registered and removed from public streets.

Among the signatories of the letter are the European Transport Safety Council, Eurocities, Clean Cities, Transport & Environment, POLIS – Cities and Regions for Transport Innovation, International Federation of Pedestrians, and the European Cyclists’ Federation.

A Tug-of-War Over Regulation

As The Guardian reports, the Czech Transport Ministry didn’t find the weight discrepancy to be much of an issue, dismissing it with the explanation that the registration was merely an “individual approval of a vehicle” within national boundaries. In other words, it’s not the EU’s problem—yet.

Meanwhile, the European Commission is a little less relaxed about it and has asked for “more information on national requirements and safety measures” to evaluate the registration. Looks like the Cybertruck isn’t in the clear just yet.

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Interestingly, the European-registered Cybertruck has wasted no time hitting the roads across the continent, complete with its own website and social media accounts under the Cybertruck.cz name. It has already made appearances in several EU countries, including Slovakia, serving as a rolling advertisement adorned with various liveries and sponsor decals.

Safety experts have been vocal about their concerns regarding the Tesla Cybertruck’s pedestrian safety credentials. Even Tesla’s own chief engineer has publicly acknowledged the challenges of meeting European safety regulations with this particular design.

Yet, despite all the controversy, the Cybertruck is just one of many heavyweight imports from the US to Europe. Large trucks and SUVs regularly make the transatlantic journey, slipping through the cracks under the “individual vehicle approval” rule.

Whether this process is a loophole or a lenient nod from authorities seems to depend on just how eager local regulators are to welcome these American giants onto their streets. Europe may be waking up to the reality of sharing its roads with vehicles more suited for wide-open plains than cobbled city squares.

Feeling a bit off-roady today 📐 Check out our new website and feel free to contact us through https://t.co/yq6N3AGNK0 ⚡️ pic.twitter.com/hpxqkyIJ9G

— CyberTruck.cz (@CybertruckEU) June 24, 2024

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Screenshots Cybertruck.cz