Top Tesla News of the Week [Video]

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 (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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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 (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

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

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

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

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

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 Launches New Long Range RWD Model Y in U.S.: More Affordable and Longer Range

Not a Tesla App

Tesla has finally launched the refreshed Model Y Long Range Rear Wheel Drive (LR RWD) in the United States. While the refreshed Model Y RWD was available as a Launch-Series option in the Asia-Pacific and European markets, it wasn’t yet available at all in North America. Once the Launch Series stopped being offered, Tesla began shipping non-Launch Edition Model Y LR RWDs in Asia and Europe earlier this year, but didn’t bring it to the United States until now.

The LR RWD is one of Tesla’s most affordable vehicles, starting at $44,990 (or $37,490 after the Federal EV Rebate).

Model Y LR RWD

Spec-wise, the refreshed Model Y LR RWD is a compelling alternative to the AWD model. Tesla has kept the premium interior and audio options on the North American variant, so you get the full experience of the refreshed Model Y. You also get more range and faster charging than the AWD model. The only downside is that it’s two-wheel drive and slower acceleration. However, given the lower price and additional range, those may be worth the tradeoffs.

*Listed ranges are EPA Ranges.

Pricing

All in all, you get a fantastic deal, given the lower price tag. The refreshed Model Y LR RWD is priced $4,000 less than the AWD version while still offering many of its attractive features.

*Post-tariff pricing.

Availability

The Long Range RWD is expected to begin shipping immediately in the United States. Tesla has not made the vehicle available in Mexico or Canada yet, likely due to tariff complications. Once the tariff rates settle, Tesla will likely look to export the vehicles from the U.S. to the other two North American countries.

With the arrival of the Long Range RWD variant, the last version we’re waiting for is the refreshed Model Y Performance. That’s likely to be an exciting vehicle, and we’re hopeful it will be in customers’ garages before the end of 2025.

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Tesla Introduces New Dynamic Supercharger Pricing

Not a Tesla App

Tesla is adjusting its Supercharger prices based on current usage in a new pilot program. Tesla’s pricing structure has typically revolved around traditional time-based peak/off-peak schedules but is now migrating to a more dynamic model based on live Supercharger utilization.

This development, announced officially through the Tesla Charging X account, should make Supercharger pricing more accurately reflect the demand for the specific Supercharger site instead of basing pricing on past usage.

Live Utilization Pricing

The core of this new pilot will launch at just 10 Supercharger sites in North America. The particular sites in question have not been clarified, but one of the locations is the Supercharger located in Davis, California.

Tesla intends to expand the pilot based on feedback and the success of the initial rollout. We could be looking at the future of Supercharger pricing around the globe.

New Chart and Features

Today, Tesla typically offers two or three prices based on peak and off-peak demand, meaning that Supercharger prices are based on the hour of the day. The current Supercharger chart in the vehicle shows the hours and price on the X-axis, while the Y-axis is the typical demand (image below).

The current chart for Superchargers versus the new one at the top of the page

Not a Tesla App

However, with the new charts that will soon be added to vehicles, Tesla will display the time on the X-axis, and the Y-axis will show the historical demand and the current price (photo at the top of this page).

In theory, the Supercharger's historical demand and real-time usage should be pretty similar, but there will be exceptions, like holidays and other events. Unexpected high and low usage will play a role in the pricing, such as sporting events and natural disasters. If the Supercharger is busy, then pricing will be high; otherwise, it will be low.

This also introduces a new feature, since pricing is now based on actual demand, users could navigate to a Supercharger that is less busy and, therefore, cheaper. In the hero image, we can see that Tesla will add a new “Find Lower Price Charging” button in a future vehicle update. This will likely highlight other nearby Superchargers that are less busy and less expensive.

However, it seems like Tesla may also start charging more for Superchargers than they do today when they’re extremely busy. Judging by the screenshot Tesla shared, the estimated usage never passed the $0.45 per kWh at the Davis, CA Supercharger. However, it seems that there’s a new price of $0.54 per kWh when the Supercharger usage is at its peak.

The good news is that Tesla is being more transparent and indicating whether the price is low or high with new labels. This change will give users more choices in terms of charging prices. If you want to save a few bucks, you can drive to a less busy Supercharger. The price will also be based on actual usage, which seems like a fairer way to determine price.

While Tesla hasn’t updated vehicles yet to show these new charts, the latest version of the Tesla app already incorporates the changes.

What Tesla Says

Max de Zegher, Tesla’s Director of Charging, elaborated on the pilot program on X.

He points out that Tesla Charging’s rates have been consistent, and it has focused on improving the charging experience and availability. Off-peak and on-peak pricing will help to increase both of these.

Tesla has outlined exactly how this new live feedback loop will function. The more accurate real-time station demand can allow Tesla to adjust pricing if a station is experiencing congestion during traditionally “off-peak” hours. On the flipside, if a station is unusually empty, Tesla can reduce the pricing.

This easily incentivizes customers who are keeping an eye on charging costs, as changing your charging destination can be as simple as the tap of a button. Most interestingly, Tesla says that the average price paid by customers is expected to remain the same as with the previous time-based system, even with seasonal and real-time fluctuations.

Crucially, owners can always see the price per kWh on their vehicle’s primary display, as well as in the Tesla app before initiating a charging session. Additionally, Tesla will not change the pricing mid-charge, so there’s no need to worry about it fluctuating up or down while you’re charging.

When reading some of our old blog posts, you'll find that @TeslaCharging has been consistent in its pricing principles: improving the charging experience and Supercharger availability. True to those principles, we're now piloting live site utilization for off-peak and on-peak… https://t.co/rIqQzOZfcG

— Max (@MdeZegher) May 6, 2025

Supercharger Pricing History

This move to live-based pricing is being presented as Tesla’s latest step towards managing its vast charging network with a more customer-centric approach. Tesla has had some historical progression in its pricing strategy, so let’s take a look at where we were versus where we are going.

kWh-Based Billing: Tesla has long pushed for billing by the kilowatt-hour (kWh) as the fairest method for customers to pay for the exact energy consumed, avoiding session fees that can obscure actual energy costs. This is now standard in most regions, but it wasn’t too long ago that pricing was determined by the minute.

Idle Fees (2017): To address vehicles remaining plugged in after charging was complete at busy sites, idle fees were implemented to improve stall availability – a practice now common across the industry.

80% SoC Limiter (2019): At busy locations, Tesla introduced an automatic 80% state-of-charge (SoC) charging limit (which users can manually override) to encourage faster turnover, as the final 20% of charging is significantly slower.

Time-Based Peak/Off-Peak Pricing (2020): Pricing based on estimated busy times was rolled out to incentivize charging during less congested periods, helping to distribute demand and manage costs.

Congestion Fees (2023): At particularly busy sites, congestion fees were introduced. These combine the principles of idle fees with disincentivizing charging to a very high state of charge when a station is crowded, with the stated goal of improving availability, not generating profit.

Commitment to Affordability

Alongside these pricing changes, Tesla has reiterated its focus on keeping Supercharging affordable for all its users. Tesla points out that, on average, in North America and Europe, Tesla’s Superchargers are 30% cheaper than other fast-charging options while also being far more reliable.

Beyond that, 2025 is set to be Tesla’s largest year for expanding the Supercharger network while also replacing many older V2 charging sites with faster, more capable V4 Supercharger stations.

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