Top Tesla News of the Week [Video]

By Not a Tesla App Staff
Not a Tesla App - Top news of the week
Not a Tesla App - Top news of the week

Join us as we take a look back at this week's top Tesla stories. From improvements to emergency braking to low mode regenerative braking, we've got you covered. So sit back, relax, and get ready to dive into the week's most talked-about topics.

View our week in review video below or scroll through the top stories of the week.

Tesla's 'Automatic Emergency Braking' Now Works in Reverse and at Speeds Over 100 MPH

Tesla's Automatic Emergency Braking now works in reverse and at higher speeds
Tesla's Automatic Emergency Braking now works in reverse and at higher speeds
Tesla (Edited by NATA)

Tesla has made some subtle but significant changes to its owner's manual for the 2023.12 software update, revealing improvements to the Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) system. These changes include the ability for AEB to function while the vehicle is in reverse and an increased operational speed range. The latest improvements reflect Tesla's continued commitment to enhancing the safety and performance of its vehicles.

Thanks to a reader named Randall, who brought the changes to our attention. The latest 2023.12 software update includes these improvements outlined in the updated Tesla owner's manual. Previously, the manual described AEB as being designed to reduce the impact of frontal collisions. But, as of the 2023.12 owner's manual, which was released a couple days ago, … Read More

Tesla Upgrades Automatic Emergency Braking to React to Perpendicular Dangers

Tesla has made improvements to automatic emergency braking
Tesla has made improvements to automatic emergency braking
Tesla

Tesla has introduced notable upgrades to its Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) system in a recent FSD Beta update. Initially, FSD Beta 11.3, which only went out to Tesla employees, included a significant update to Tesla's automatic emergency braking.

However, when FSD Beta 11.3.1 was released to public testers, the release notes significantly differed from the employee version, leaving some uncertainty regarding the status of AEB enhancements. Read More

A Closer Look at Tesla's Trip Planner Feature in the Tesla App

Tesla adds a Trip Planner to the Tesla app in version 4.20.69
Tesla adds a Trip Planner to the Tesla app in version 4.20.69
Not a Tesla App

Tesla has updated their app to version 4.20.69, introducing a much-anticipated trip-planning feature. With this addition, Tesla owners can plan a trip through the app and send it directly to their car. This guide will walk you through the new features, limitations, and other updates in this release.

To use the Trip Planner simply go to the location section of the Tesla app, tap on "navigate," and input your destination. The app will then find Superchargers along the route, give an ETA, show how much to charge at each charger, display the state of your car's battery, and plot the route on a map. Read More

Tesla to Revive Low Regen Mode in Upcoming Update

Tesla appears ready to reintroduce a 'low' regenerative braking option
Tesla appears ready to reintroduce a 'low' regenerative braking option
Not a Tesla App

We reported last week that one of our users temporarily saw release notes for what appears to be an upcoming release in their Tesla app.

One of the features the user saw was an upcoming UI change to the Power Meter in the vehicle.

Another change the user saw was the reintroduction of low regen mode. The low regen mode makes it easier for drivers to adapt to the regenerative braking system (RBS) unique to electric and hybrid cars. However, it may result in reduced range and increased brake usage. Read More

Tesla to Make Changes to the Power Meter in Their Cars

Tesla has improved the power meter in the vehicle through several updates
Tesla has improved the power meter in the vehicle through several updates
Tesla

Thanks to one of our readers, it looks like we have a look at an upcoming change to Tesla's power meter. The power meter, an essential element of the UI, provides drivers with real-time information on power usage and regenerative braking.

Tesla accidently displayed this feature in their app before fixing it a few hours later.

Over the years, Tesla has made several changes to the power meter's design to improve driver experience. Early versions of the meter featured a thin green and black line. However, recent updates increased the line's thickness to enhance visibility. Now, the latest UI update appears to strike a balance between these designs. Read More

Tesla Reveals FSD Beta Accident Rate for First Time; Compares It to Autopilot and National Average

Tesla reveals FSD Beta and Autopilot accident rates
Tesla reveals FSD Beta and Autopilot accident rates
Tesla

Tesla's latest Impact Report, which focuses on the company's sustainability and safety initiatives, has provided updated data on the performance of its Full Self Driving (FSD) Beta and Autopilot systems. The new numbers illustrate the significant improvements in road safety when these advanced technologies are utilized.

According to the Impact Report, FSD Beta users now have 0.31 accidents per 1 million miles, showcasing the effectiveness of Tesla's ADAS technology. In addition, Teslas with Autopilot engaged demonstrate even better safety performance, with only 0.18 accidents per 1 million miles. These impressive statistics highlight the potential for autonomous systems to drastically reduce accident rates compared to the industry average of 1.53 accidents per 1 million miles. Read More

Tesla Shares Battery Life Span Data: Just 12% Degradation After 200,000 Miles

Tesla says Model S and Model X batteries degrade about 12% after 200,000 miles
Tesla says Model S and Model X batteries degrade about 12% after 200,000 miles
Tesla

Tesla owners often are asked about the lifespan of their vehicle's battery and whether it will need to be replaced. However, based on over a decade of real-world data, Tesla confidently states that battery replacement is not a concern for most customers. On average, Tesla batteries degrade by a mere 12% after 200,000 miles (321,868 km) of usage, which outperforms many expectations.

The impressive durability of Tesla batteries has been demonstrated through the company's consistent investment in research and development. As a result, Tesla has consistently pushed the limits of battery technology, ensuring that their electric vehicles remain at the forefront of the industry regarding performance and sustainability. Read More

Tesla Achieves Impressive Sustainability Goals in 2022 Impact Report

Tesla started producing its Model 3 in 2017
Tesla started producing its Model 3 in 2017
Tesla

Tesla has released its 2022 impact report, more than 200 pages detailing the company's progress towards sustainability goals and environmental impact. The report showcases Tesla's impressive achievements in renewable energy, emissions reduction, and transparency.

According to the report, Tesla's global Supercharger network was powered by 100% renewable energy in 2022, achieved through on-site resources and annual renewable matching. This impressive feat demonstrates Tesla's commitment to reducing its environmental impact and promoting sustainability. Read More

The Ultimate Guide to Tesla Shortcuts and Tips You May Not Know

You can tap the speedometer or speed limit sign to set your Autopilot speed
You can tap the speedometer or speed limit sign to set your Autopilot speed
Not a Tesla App

Tesla vehicles are known for their cutting-edge technology, making the driving experience enjoyable and efficient. In this article, we will delve into Tesla tips and tricks that can further enhance your experience. While some of these tips may be specific to the Model 3 and Model Y, many are applicable across the Tesla lineup.

While on Autopilot, you can tap the speedometer to set the maximum Autopilot speed to your current speed. This is useful if you want to maintain your current speed without manually adjusting it. Read More

Tesla Offers Up Recommended Equalizer Settings for Your Vehicle

You now change Tesla's subwoofer level independently
You now change Tesla's subwoofer level independently
Not a Tesla App

Tesla's official Instagram account in Hong Kong recently posted their recommended audio settings for their electric vehicles, causing some confusion. Many wonder why these settings differ from the preprogrammed settings and why they vary between the Model 3, Model 3 Performance, and Model Y.

Tesla Hong Kong's post was to promote the vehicle's immersive ten speakers system. It outlined specific audio settings for different car models, which appear to diverge from the factory settings. This raised questions among users about the rationale behind this discrepancy and whether these new settings are "official" recommendations. Read More

Tesla Surpasses 150 Million Miles Driven with FSD Beta

Tesla FSD Beta has driven over 150 million miles
Tesla FSD Beta has driven over 150 million miles
Tesla

Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology continues to reach new heights, as the company announced during its latest earnings call that it has now crossed over 150 million miles driven using the FSD beta. CEO Elon Musk emphasized this number's exponential growth and data's importance in refining the technology. Read More

Tesla Updates Model S and Model X: Steering Choices and Price Adjustments

Tesla increases the price of the Model S and Model X in the U.S.
Tesla increases the price of the Model S and Model X in the U.S.
Oak

Tesla has made notable changes to its flagship Model S and Model X. The yoke is now a special order, and the prices have been adjusted again.

Tesla is well-known for pushing the boundaries of automotive design and technology. However, the company has demonstrated a willingness to listen to customer feedback and adapt to their preferences. The reintroduction of the traditional round steering wheel for the Model S and Model X is a prime example of this customer-centric approach. Read More

Tesla Woos New and Existing Customers with Extended Free Supercharging Offers

Tesla is offering six years of free Superchargers to some owners
Tesla is offering six years of free Superchargers to some owners
Tesla

Tesla has announced an enticing offer to both new and existing Model S and Model X owners, providing them with extended periods of free Supercharging at its expansive Supercharger network. This move aims to boost sales of the two models and maintain Tesla's dominance in the competitive EV market. Read More

Tesla's Pricing Strategy - A Modern-day Take on Henry Ford's Assembly Line Legacy?

Ford introduced the assembly line in 1913
Ford introduced the assembly line in 1913
Ford (edited by NATA)

In 1913, Henry Ford introduced the assembly line in Highland Park, Michigan, revolutionizing the automotive industry and drastically reducing the price of the Model T. This groundbreaking innovation led to the collapse of hundreds of rival car companies, unable to compete with Ford's cost-effective production methods. Fast forward to 2023, and we witness a similar dynamic unfolding in the electric vehicle (EV) market, with Tesla leading the charge. Read More

Tesla Unveils New Cybertruck Production Images and Remains on Track for Q3

A peek at the Tesla Cybertruck being built
A peek at the Tesla Cybertruck being built
Tesla

During Tesla's Q1 2023 earnings call, CEO Elon Musk gave an update on the Cybertruck's progress, revealing new images of the pilot production line at the Fremont factory and the permanent production line at Giga Texas. With anticipation mounting for the highly-anticipated electric vehicle, Musk assured that production remains on track for later this year and hinted at a Q3 delivery event. Read More

Tesla Debuts New Model 3 Variant With a 394-Mile Range for Businesses

Tesla now offers a Model 3 with almost a 400 mile range in the UK
Tesla now offers a Model 3 with almost a 400 mile range in the UK
Tesla

Tesla has introduced a new Model 3 variant designed exclusively for the UK business sector. The latest addition to Tesla's lineup features a Long Range battery pack and a single rear motor. This new offering comes as Tesla aims to accelerate the electrification of Europe's business-to-business fleet. Read More

Leaked Letter Shows Tesla Is Facing Pressure From Group of Investors

Tesla is facing pressure from a group of investors
Tesla is facing pressure from a group of investors
TED

Tesla is under pressure from a group of long-term investors holding over $1.5 billion in shares. These investors have voiced concerns over the company's governance and leadership and human rights issues within its operations and supply chain. They have called for changes in the composition of the Board of Directors, greater focus from CEO Elon Musk, and increased transparency in the company's practices. Read More

Tesla's Q1 2023 Earnings Show Lower Margins Amid Aggressive Price Cuts

Tesla released its Q1 2023 earnings report
Tesla released its Q1 2023 earnings report
Tesla

Tesla reported a lower-than-expected gross margin for the first quarter of 2023 as a series of aggressive price cuts aimed at spurring demand in a sagging economy and fending off rising competition took their toll. As a result, the company's total gross margin stood at 19.3%, compared to analysts' expectations of 22.4%, marking the lowest level since Q4 2020. Read More

Tesla's Social Media Domination Continues to Surge in 2023

Tesla's social media platforms have been growing at an impressive rate
Tesla's social media platforms have been growing at an impressive rate
Not a Tesla App

Tesla's innovative approach to the electric vehicle and renewable energy sectors has been well-documented, but its exceptional success on social media platforms is another story worth telling. With a strong presence on Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn, Tesla has managed to create a powerful and influential online presence that captures the attention of millions worldwide. Read More

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Tesla LFP Batteries Can Now Be Warmed up While Supercharging Using Innovative Feature

By Karan Singh
Not a Tesla App

Tesla’s been on a roll with Supercharger improvements lately, from the 325kW charging update for the Cybertruck, to 500kW with V4 Superchargers coming next year. While those improvements have been limited to the Cybertruck, Tesla didn’t put all their focus on their new flagship vehicle, but looked at their more affordable vehicles as well.

LFP Battery Heating

Tesla’s Superchargers can now heat LFP Batteries - those that are in the Model 3 and Model Y Rear Wheel Drive variants. This applies to Long Range and Standard Range models, which saw a limited run. This is another update included as part of the 2024 Tesla Holiday Update - which really arrived with a lot of unannounced new features and capabilities.

The change is pretty interesting - Superchargers of the V3 and V4 variety can now pre-heat batteries for Model 3 and Model Y vehicles equipped with LFP battery packs. That means those vehicles are able to get back on the road faster when it's extremely cold. Of course, Tesla still advises you to precondition before you arrive, saving drivers time and money.

Max de Zegher, Tesla’s Director of Charging, also commented on the new feature. Essentially, Tesla is inducing an AC (alternating) ripple current through the battery to warm it up. Keep in mind that Superchargers are DC charging. That means it is possible to get a cold-soaked LFP vehicle on the road 4x faster than before, assuming that it didn’t precondition at all and that it is in the worst-case scenario (below 0ºF).

In essence, Tesla is using some engineering magic to turn the circuits inside the LFP battery into an electric heater - and powering that heater through the Supercharger. An AC ripple current is a small oscillation in the DC charging current that generates heat through electrical resistance, warming up the battery. Those ripples are a byproduct of converting AC to DC and back - so Tesla is using the onboard charger to induce those ripples to warm up the battery. Definitely an innovative technique that’s really only possible with the versatility of the NACS connector.

We’re hoping Tesla can implement this across their full lineup of vehicles, but we’ll have to wait and see how it is trialed across LFP vehicles first and if it is even possible on vehicles with 2170 or 4680 battery packs.

Tesla Included FSD V12.6.1 and V13.2.4 in the Same Update: What Caused This and What It Means

By Karan Singh
Not a Tesla App

Tesla launched two FSD updates simultaneously on Saturday night, and what’s most interesting is that they arrived on the same software version. We’ll dig into that a little later, but for now, there’s good news for everyone. For Hardware 3 owners, FSD V12.6.1 is launching to all vehicles, including the Model 3 and Model Y. For AI4 owners, FSD V13.2.4 is launching, starting with the Cybertruck.

FSD V13.2.4

A new V13 build is now rolling out to the Cybertruck and is expected to arrive for the rest of the AI4 fleet soon. However, this build seems to be focused on bug fixes. There are no changes to the release notes for the Cybertruck with this release, and it’s unlikely to feature any changes when it arrives on other vehicles.

While this update focuses on bug fixes, Tesla’s already working on bigger features for FSD V13.3, which we have already confirmed to include improvements to highway following and speed control.

FSD V12.6.1

FSD V12.6.1 builds upon V12.6, which is the latest FSD version for HW3 vehicles. While FSD V12.6 was only released for the redesigned Model S and Model X with HW3, FSD V12.6.1 is adding support for the Model 3 and Model Y.

While this is only a bug-fix release for users coming from FSD V12.6, it includes massive improvements for anyone coming from an older FSD version. Two of the biggest changes are the new end-to-end highway stack that now utilizes FSD V12 for highway driving and a redesigned controller that allows FSD to drive “V13” smooth.

It also adds speed profiles, earlier lane changes, and more. You can read our in-depth look at all the changes in FSD V12.6.

Same Update, Multiple FSD Builds

What’s interesting about this software version is that it “includes" two FSD updates, V12.6.1 for HW3 and V13.2.4 for HW4 vehicles. While this is interesting, it’s less special when you understand what’s happening under the hood.

The vehicle’s firmware and Autopilot firmware are actually completely separate. While a vehicle downloading a firmware update may look like a singular process, it’s actually performing several functions during this period. First, it downloads the vehicle’s firmware. Upon unpacking the update, it’s instructed which Autopilot/FSD firmware should be downloaded.

While the FSD firmware is separate, the vehicle can’t download any FSD update. The FSD version is hard-coded in the vehicle’s firmware that was just downloaded. This helps Tesla keep the infotainment and Autopilot firmware tightly coupled, leading to fewer issues.

What we’re seeing here is that HW3 vehicles are being told to download one FSD version, while HW4 vehicles are being told to download a different version.

While this is the first time Tesla has had two FSD versions tied to the same vehicle software version, the process hasn’t actually changed, and what we’re seeing won’t lead to faster FSD updates or the ability to download FSD separately. What we’re seeing is the direct result of the divergence of HW3 and HW4.

While HW3/4 remained basically on the same FSD version until recently, it is now necessary to deploy different versions for the two platforms. We expect this to be the norm going forward, where HW3 will be on a much different version of FSD than HW4. While each update may not include two different FSD versions going forward, we may see it occasionally, depending on which features Autopilot is dependent on.

Thanks to Greentheonly for helping us understand what happened with this release and for the insight into Tesla’s processes.

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