Tesla’s cars can operate FSD in Shadow Mode – which means that the vehicle is running FSD in the background without any real output except analytics. This is a common software practice that lets software engineers compare the process they’re testing against an existing known output and compare the results. In this case, Tesla compares what FSD would do to what the driver does, and any discrepancies are reported back to be analyzed.
With this information, we could guess that FSD has been operating in Shadow Mode in China for a while, and this new Employee FSD Beta Program will be the beginning of employee testing in China, providing even more data for the end-to-end process that is FSD V12.
FSD Beta, not Supervised FSD
Most interestingly, the photo refers to “FSD Beta” instead of “Supervised,” which Tesla started using with FSD 12.3.3 in March 2024. This could imply that FSD in China isn’t ready for a “Supervised” variant, and it’s considered to be in more of a testing stage.
In the photo, we can also see that it says “Wave 1,” which is what Tesla calls the group of employees who receive “pre-release” Tesla updates on their personal vehicles. Wave 1 serves as a final test for software before its released to the public. In most cases, the software is rolled out publicly within a couple of weeks, however, there have been times when bugs are found and Tesla releases revision before a public release.
Release Date
Prior to larger releases here in North America, we generally see Tesla ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) testing and verification vehicles on the roads, which have not yet been spotted in China.
Whether these vehicles will be needed in China is up for debate, but once FSD features begin rolling out to employees, we should get a better idea of a public release in China.
Subscribe
Subscribe to our newsletter to stay up to date on the latest Tesla news, upcoming features and software updates.
Over at 7000 Santa Monica Boulevard in Hollywood, Los Angeles, Tesla’s stainless steel-clad retro diner is really coming together. Most recently, we saw the gigantic 45-foot LED screens for the outdoor theater come to life, but there’s been more going on inside than we originally knew about.
Now, thanks to photos shared with us by Thomas Adamian, who ventured over to the site, we have our very first look inside the nearly completed Tesla Diner.
While we knew the concept aimed for a retro-futuristic theme, blending a diner with Superchargers and a modern open-air theater, the initial stages of the interior are well beyond a mere nostalgia project.
Interior Explored
Inside, we’ve got a seamless blend of classic circular diner-style seating accompanied by distinctly modern lighting and fixtures. This definitely brings to life that modernist art-deco feel and feels right at home alongside Tesla’s Robovan, rather than a period set-piece.
The facility is still clearly under active construction in these images, with materials and equipment visible, but they provide the best and most detailed glimpse so far of what the indoor dining experience will look like.
Front Door / Diner Logo
The circular spaceship-like entrance
Thomas Adamian
The circular entrance looks like something out of this world - and while we’re hoping the doors slide inside the walls, like a pocket door, they likely open in or out like a standard door.
This is also one of our first looks at the Tesla Diner sign, which hangs inside the doorway. The logo itself also has an art-deco look and feel. On the door, there’s also a sign confirming that the diner will be open 24/7.
Windows & Artwork
Shutters, Stealth Fighters, and Cybertrucks
Thomas Adamian
Tesla really nailed the style with the windows and shutters, matching the diner’s vibe. In the background, you can also see the concept art for the Cybertruck. We hope Tesla includes artwork for other vehicles as well, as they help tell the Tesla story and give diners an inside look at the company.
Exterior Seating
The exterior seating
Thomas Adamian
There’s also an exterior seating space, which seems to be in the early phases of being laid out. None of those pallets have been disassembled yet, but they likely have outdoor furniture, letting customers sit outside and enjoy a meal.
The Tesla Diner in Hollywood is shaping up to be much more than just a restaurant with chargers. It’ll have in-app functionality with the Tesla app and offer room for 200 diners inside, along with the ability to use a drive-in theater with in-car service. Tesla’s original plans also include rooftop seating, so there’s likely more to come once the construction phase continues.
The idea for a Tesla Diner began in 2023, when it was announced at Tesla’s Investor Day. While the diner has yet to open, it already seems like it’ll be an iconic establishment for the area. Amid recent brand turbulence tied to politics, this project has the potential to refresh Tesla’s image—offering a fun, memorable place to charge.
If there’s one thing we’re hoping for, it’s that the food matches the creativity of the design. Ideally, what Tesla is building in Hollywood becomes a blueprint for similar diners across North America—and eventually, the world.
With its unique concept and prime location, the Diner is poised to become a true LA landmark and a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.
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.
Vehicle
Range*
0-60mph
Charging Speed (15m)
2025 AWD
501 km / 310 mi
5.0s
239 km / 148 mi
2025 LR RWD
525 km / 326 mi
7.9s
250 km / 155 mi
2026 AWD (Juniper)
526 km / 327 mi
4.3s
266 km / 165 mi
2026 RWD (Juniper)
574 km / 357 mi
5.9s
271 km / 168 mi
*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.
Model
Price (USD)
Price (CAD)
2026 Model Y LR AWD
$48,990
$84,990*
2026 Model Y LR RWD
$44,990
Not available
*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.
