StartYourEnginesX, a YouTube channel based in Japan that focuses on testing and reviewing cars, uploaded a series of videos that put the Tesla Model Y's through its paces with high-speed riding, double lane changing and wet swing brake tests. The tests were conducted with executives from Tesla Japan, Mercedes-Benz Japan, which also had a vehicle tested, and the Akebono Brake Industry.
Wet Braking Test
The purpose of the tests was to evaluate Model Y's wet grip approach when it comes to braking and turning on a damp surface. During the trials, Model Y approached a wet road surface at 60 miles per hour. Once on the wet pavement, the driver hammered the brakes while turning.
The video showcased the Model Y's impressive performance, with technicians giving the SUV a near-perfect score with 4.5 stars out of 5 for its stopping power and turning performance in wet conditions. Additionally, the Model Y was able to come to a stop on the curved course, with the technicians remarking that it performed exceptionally well despite the challenging conditions.
The Moose Test
Another video has the testers traveling at 60 mph and then swerving to the left and then back to the right, essentially mimicking what would happen if a moose suddenly appeared in your lane. Again, the test scored a perfect five stars, allowing the testers to stay in control while performing the high-speed maneuver. This video is worth the watch just for the poor guy with a clipboard that appears to be a bit nervous but doing his best to keep his game face on.
Other Tests Results
The Model Y also went for a high-speed ride around the closed track. Again, it received 4.5 stars for its performance. Another test demonstrated how fast the Model Y could stop at 60 mph. It came to a complete, under-control stop in less than 120 feet, earning another 4.5 stars. While Model Y grabbed top marks for acceleration with 0 to 60 times coming in under 4.3 seconds.
The Model Y has been gaining popularity in the automotive industry, with its impressive performance and innovative features making it a favorite among car enthusiasts worldwide. Its electric powertrain, spacious interior, and advanced technology make it a top contender in the SUV market. These videos showcase why the Model Y deserves accolades and continues to gain popularity in the automotive industry. Don't forget, it's also a top safety pick.
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In Tesla’s upcoming update, 2024.32.3, Tesla has added hands-free support for opening the vehicle’s frunk. This follows the Spring Update (2024.14), which added Hands-Free Trunk support for certain vehicles.
When hands-free trunk support was added earlier this year, it was supported on vehicles that include an ultra wideband chip, which includes the refresh Model S, new Model X, and the 2024 Model 3. Due to the hardware requirement, these will be the same vehicles that support the new Hands-Free Frunk feature. Legacy vehicles without UWB will unfortunately not support either feature due to the hardware requirement. UWB enables far more accurate tracking of the phone key, allowing Tesla to pinpoint its exact location relative to the vehicle.
The Cybertruck interestingly also includes an ultra wideband chip, however, it didn’t include the automatic opening of the gate earlier this year. However, we expect the Cybertruck to also receive the hands-free frunk opening in this 2024.32.3 update or relatively soon afterward.
Update: The Cybertruck is receiving hands-free frunk support in the 2024.32 update as well.
Hands-Free Frunk
The Hands-Free Frunk works similarly to the trunk feature – with an iPhone 11+ and a recent version of the app, you’ll be able to stand in front of your vehicle, and the Frunk will unlatch after sounding a chime. On some vehicles, the frunk will immediately open after being unlatched, however, you’ll need to manually close it.
This new feature isn’t enabled by default – you’ll need to go to Settings > Locks > Hands-Free Frunk to enable it.
At this time, Tesla doesn’t support UWB on Android devices, though both the Hands-Free Trunk and Hands-Free Frunk support will come to Android users in a future app update, according to Tesla.
Exclude Home
With the addition of the hands-free frunk opening, Tesla has also added a new option. You can now choose to disable the automatic opening when your vehicle is located at home to prevent you from accidentally opening. This will apply to the automatic frunk and trunk. In addition, in the Model X, you’ll also be able to disable the self-presenting doors at home. This is a great addition as many people have kept the hands-free feature disabled due to it awkwardly opening in the garage.
In the 2024.32.3 update, Tesla also mentions that they’ve improved the detection of the phone key, which should make the feature more reliable and faster when approaching the vehicle from the front or rear.
Following its recent launch in the United States and Canada, Tesla has launched their referral program in several European countries as well.
The program is available in Germany, Norway, France, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and possibly others. The program is almost the same as the one available today in North America, with rewards for each referral and a discount for those referred. The cap in Europe is also ten per year.
This program comes right on the heels of a 0% financing offer for the Model Y in Sweden and France. While referrals aren't currently available in Sweden, the 0% financing still is.
European Referrals
The European Referral program accounts for country and local currency, where applicable.
Country
Referral Discount
Referral Award
UK
£1,000
£500
Germany, France, Netherlands
€1,000
€500
Norway
kr11,500
kr5,750
The referral reward program is comparable to the one available in North America. After exchange rates, there is only an approximately 10% difference between the available rewards in the US and EU.
Other Countries
We expect this program to start rolling out to other European countries over the next few days or weeks, as Tesla continues to expand its referral program.
TeslaFi logs your drives and charging sessions, letting you keep a log of your vehice's activity. We highly recommend checking them out if you use your car for business trips and would like to keep track of reimbursements, if you like to see how much you spend on charging or if you just love statistics. Visit their site and see everything they have to offer!
Tesla Android Project enables you to run Android apps in your Tesla. The platform is Open Source and you can deploy it on your own Raspberry Pi 4. Consider supporting the initiative by donating or purchasing the Compute Module 4 Bundle that delivers the best experience. Get $20 off by using the code: NotATeslaApp
The official Tesla app only notifies you if your car is broken into. By installing Sentry Pro on your phone, you will be notified for all Sentry Mode events. Stay connected and avoid potential surprises by receiving notifications. Stop constantly checking the cameras to ensure safety. Check only when necessary, save battery and get peace of mind. Get a 7 day free trial here!
Stay organized, connected, and stylish with Cyberbackpack — the #1 backpack, luggage & travel accessories for Tesla owners. We highly recommend checking them out if you commute or travel and would like a backpack or luggage that is sleek, secure and durable. View their products page and see everything they have to offer!
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