In a recent web post that was quickly taken down, Sirius has confirmed that SiriusXM is coming to vehicles in a future software update. This post went up on SiriusXM’s Canadian website, showing the steps needed to get the free trial running on your vehicle.
Streaming, not Satellite
This version of SiriusXM will be streaming and not dependent on satellites. That means a few things. First, that it’ll be available on more vehicles than just the Model S and Model X that have satellite radio receivers. It will also be available on the Model 3 and Model Y, as well as the Cybertruck.
Secondly, the streaming version of SiriusXM has more choices and content. The specific package that will be available is called SiriusXM 360L – which includes a full set of exclusive streaming channels, on-demand content, and live sports – all available by streaming data rather than over a satellite connection.
Its expected to require Premium Connectivity like Tesla’s other music services.
Pricing
It looks like SiriusXM 360L runs for $21.99 USD a month for their “All Access” package, while the more limited “Select” package is available for $16.99 a month right now.
However, based on the leaked webpage, streaming data to Teslas may only be available with their “Platinum” package, which is $28.80 USD per month. You’ll also be able to stream to devices including smartphones, smart devices, and computers with the same subscription.
Starting with a Demo
SiriusXM will offer new Tesla users a free trial of the Platinum package once you create and login to a SiriusXM account. It’ll be a 30 day demo to get you started, and includes everything available in the Platinum package.
The navigation flow to setup the Demo from SiriusXM's website.
Not a Tesla App
Satellite Streaming on the Model S and Model X
This doesn’t look like it will impact SiriusXM satellite radio on the Model S and Model X at this time – and we’re not quite sure how the implementation will function once internet streaming radio arrives. It’s possible Tesla may consider them separate apps in the vehicle, SiriusXM Streaming and SiriusXM radio.
As it stands, you can use SiriusXM Satellite Radio when you’re out of cellular signal range on the Model S and Model X – due to the hardware SiriusXM receiver in the vehicles.
Going forward, with the implementation of internet streaming SiriusXM, the Model S and Model X may also lose their SiriusXM satellite receivers. Tesla has consistently been a proponent of “no part is the best part”, and this also comes in line with many of the other cost-cutting measures that the company has taken in order to simplify the construction of their vehicles.
These satellite receivers are fairly expensive as well. SiriusXM sells standalone units meant to plug into an Aux jack for about $60 USD. That’s a significant cost that Tesla could cut from its vehicles, especially since most users may prefer to use services like Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, or Amazon Music today.
Either way, another streaming option is fantastic to see in Tesla’s continually growing streaming repository. We’re not quite sure when this will arrive and show up your Tesla, but we’d expect it to arrive sometime before the end of this year.
The first Robotaxi prototype has been spotted, with a hefty layer of camouflage over its body – at the Warner Bros. Studios, where the Robotaxi event is expected to occur. This news comes right after Tesla recently announced that a stock draw was going to take place for Robotaxi event tickets.
Tesla has already begun to gather data in the WB Studio area using its Robotaxi mules – but this is the first actual Robotaxi prototype we’ve seen. The mule vehicles have been Model 3s with odd-shaped camera mounts in the rear windows – which appear to approximately line up with the shape of the new vehicle that’s rolling around the studio streets today.
Robotaxi Prototype
The prototype itself appears to be roughly the same size and shape as the Robotaxi Concepts that we’ve seen, along with a box in the back to maybe make its shape harder to discern. Of course, the Tesla-like headlights, aero caps, and curves are fairly obvious to the seasoned observer, and it looks like a compact Model Y.
Most interestingly, it seems that Tesla has camouflaged this vehicle to try and prevent people from discerning what it is – but astute Tesla fans on Reddit have noted seeing this vehicle and several others wrapped in eye-catching bright yellow, along with fake body panels.
@philroberts
It seems the prototypes have two doors and steering wheels, at least currently. In a now-deleted comment, a Reddit user also mentioned they caught sight of a straight and solid rear lightbar, similar to the Cybertruck—and perhaps the leaked Model Y Juniper that was seen last month.
Unlike the Cybertruck event – where the “unbreakable” windows shattered on stage, Tesla appears to be putting a lot of effort into preparing for this event and making sure everything goes right. It definitely feels like attendees will get to experience calling for a Robotaxi and getting a ride at the Warner Bros. studio, which will make this unlike any other Tesla event before.'
We’re looking forward to seeing all the cool things Tesla will reveal at the upcoming Robotaxi event – which is on October 10th. If you haven’t already signed up to be included in the random drawing for tickets, be sure to sign up soon, as entries for the drawing close on Tuesday, September 17th!
Tesla has announced that it will be doubling the annual openings of its Destination Charging Network.
Destination Chargers are located at hotels, restaurants, parking garages, and other locations where you’ll be likely to spend several hours using a facility. These are all level 2 chargers, providing you with a chance to plug in, charge, and relax while you’re on a trip.
Today, Tesla has over 40,000 Wall Connectors installed at its destination charging sites – and it is planning to continue increasing that number.
Tesla previously announced back in 2023 that it was partnering with Hilton Hotels to equip 2,000 hotels across the United States, Canada, and Mexico with a staggering 20,000 Universal Wall Connectors – which are capable of charging any EVs – not just Teslas. Many of these locations are already on track to be installed or have been installed – as the plan began in early 2024.
Destination Charging
Destination charging locations are available through your vehicle navigation – they appear as either one-bolt or two-bolt chargers at many locations. While destination charging isn’t as fast as Supercharging, you can pick up a full charge overnight at a hotel with destination charging, or top off your charge with a 1-hour dinner at a restaurant. Most destination chargers will be 11.5 kW or 9.6 kW, which will charge about 35-44 miles every hour, depending on your model.
11.5 kW (48 amps)
9.6 kW (40 amps)
Model S
41
34
Model 3
44
37
Model X
35
29
Model Y
44
37
With its Certified Installers program, Tesla also partners with local companies to get Tesla destination or urban chargers installed into environments. The Certified Installers program allows businesses to quickly find and work with Tesla-certified electricians and contractors who will be able to install the correct charging solution – and once it's enabled – make it show up within vehicle navigation.
Cost & Charging
Using a Destination Charger is as simple as plugging your vehicle in, in most cases. Some locations may charge to use them, and the Tesla app will get you squared away with automatic recognition and billing – just like using a Supercharger. One item of note is that Destination Charging prices are set by the location owner – not Tesla – so prices may vary. Many businesses use them as a way to attract customers and offer free charging.
Destination Charging is a fantastic solution for EV drivers to get from location to location without relying on Level 3 charging stops if they’re taking it slow. It also serves as a way for urban areas to get charging added to parking garages, theaters, restaurants, and other locations.
The best part about Destination Charging installs is that because its Level 2 charging for the most part – it only requires 48-amp services, which doesn’t require special infrastructure like a Supercharger does. This means that most businesses can install it fairly easily and without a big bill. We look forward to seeing Tesla’s 40,000 sites rapidly expand to the next big marker – 50,000, and then 100,000.
