Week 29/25 Tesla Update: Launch of Model YL, Fresh Battery, FSD Transition, Controversial "Most Epic Demo" Involving a Joke About Male Anatomy
Tesla Expands Robotaxi Service in Austin, Waymo Leads with Fully Autonomous Service
Tesla has expanded its robotaxi service in Austin, Texas, covering approximately 230 square kilometers, a significant increase from the initial 50 square kilometers[1][2]. This development comes as Waymo, the self-driving subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., maintains its lead with the only fully autonomous robotaxi service available 24/7 and open to everyone[1].
The ride cost for Tesla's robotaxis has also increased, with each ride now costing $6.90, up from the previous $4.20[1]. In contrast, Tesla's robotaxi service requires a passenger on board, unlike Waymo's service which operates without a driver[1].
Meanwhile, Waymo has not revealed any details about a potential expansion of its robotaxi service area, leaving Tesla as the frontrunner in terms of coverage in Austin[1].
On the product front, Tesla is set to launch the Model Y L, a six-seater version of the Model Y, in China this fall[1][3]. This longer wheelbase model, positioned as a midpoint between the standard Model Y and the larger Model X, offers features like fully flat-folding rear seats for extra utility, catering mainly to Chinese market preferences so far[1][3].
However, there is no confirmed information yet about when or if this 6-seater Model Y L will become available outside of China, such as in North America or Europe[1][2][3]. Tesla has not officially announced plans for international availability, and sources explicitly state uncertainty about bringing the Model Y L to other markets beyond China[3].
Elon Musk, Tesla's CEO, has hinted at potential changes in the Full Self-Driving (FSD) option for European customers. He suggested that he would be in favor of making the unlimited transfer of the FSD option to a new Tesla in Europe without a time limit[1].
In other news, Elon Musk announced a "most epic demo ever" by the end of the year, but provided no further details[1]. The Tesla design studio was mentioned in relation to this announcement, sparking speculation about what this demo could entail.
The highest range according to WLTP will be offered by the rear-wheel-drive Model 3, with 750 kilometers[1]. With all-wheel drive, the Model 3 will have a range of 660 kilometers[1]. The Model 3 Performance will be able to travel 571 kilometers on a single charge[1].
Lastly, it's worth noting that Tesla's robotaxi service area in Austin resembles a penis shape[1]. This unusual shape has sparked some amusement among observers, but it does not affect the functionality or safety of the service.
[1] Electrek [2] Tesla North [3] Tesla Owners Online
- In the automotive industry, Tesla's expansion of its robotaxi service in Austin, Texas, surpasses an area of 230 square kilometers, increasingly competing with Waymo's fully autonomous service in the realm of finance and transportation.
- The business strategy of Tesla involves the launch of the Model Y L, a six-seater version of the Model Y, catering to lifestyle preferences in China, but the plan for international availability remains uncertain.
- The technology sector is intriguing as Elon Musk hints at potential modifications in the Full Self-Driving (FSD) option for European customers, suggesting the possibility of an unlimited transfer of the FSD option to a new Tesla.
- While Waymo maintains the lead in the autonomous robotaxi sector, offering a 24/7 service without a driver, Tesla's ride costs have increased for its robotaxis, requiring a passenger on board.
- The electric-vehicle landscape is evolving, as Tesla's Model 3 offers the highest range according to WLTP, with figures of 750 kilometers for the rear-wheel-drive model, 660 kilometers for the all-wheel-drive model, and 571 kilometers for the Model 3 Performance, showcasing advancements in vehicles' longevity on a single charge.
