EV Daily | Tesla Unveils Wireless Charging Amid FSD Probe and Cybertruck Price Shift
Saturday, Oct 19, 2024 8:00 am ET
TSLA --
【Tesla】
Tesla has showcased its upcoming wireless electric vehicle charging station, a feature that aligns with its goal to automate charging for self-driving vehicles. This wireless charging solution, revealed at the Robotaxi unveiling, is a shift from Tesla’s previous preference for an automated robot arm. Tesla’s chief designer confirmed its development, and a new video provides more details about its design and functionality. This solution is not equivalent to Tesla's Supercharger network's level 3 DC fast charging but exceeds typical level 2 home charging rates. Tesla also revealed its Powerwall app update, offering new functionalities for offline use and power monitoring.Tesla's Full Self-Driving system is under investigation by NHTSA following crashes in low-visibility conditions. The Office of Defects Investigation identified several reports under these conditions, including a fatal incident. This preliminary evaluation covers Tesla vehicles built since 2016 and could potentially lead to a recall. Despite previous evaluations not resulting in significant recalls, this investigation highlights ongoing concerns about FSD's capability in adverse weather.Tesla is making the Cybertruck available for orders without requiring previous reservations. Initially revealed in 2019, the Cybertruck now starts at $79,990, a change from its initially promised $39,900. Tesla has reportedly sold 30,000 units, and its quick production ramp-up signals a strong market position. However, the conversion rate from reservations is low, potentially due to pricing changes and competition from other electric pickups.
【BYD】
BYD has officially launched the Seal 06 GT in China, a sporty electric hatchback at a lower price than initially promised. Based on the Seal fastback sedan, the Seal 06 GT is part of BYD's "Ocean" range and features a new 3.0 Evo 800V platform for rapid charging. It offers four trim options with various ranges and powertrains, and it marks a key model in BYD’s expansion in Europe.
【Others】
Kia's EV2, a smaller and more affordable electric SUV, has been spotted testing ahead of its 2026 release. Part of Kia's "EVs for all" strategy, the EV2 aims for a price around $30,000 in Europe, with lower prices in Korea. Kia is expanding its EV lineup, including models like the EV5, already making an impact globally.Pony.ai, an autonomous driving technology company, has filed for a US IPO following revenue growth. Known for its robotaxi services, Pony.ai has operations in China and the US and partnerships with major OEMs. The company seeks to trade on Nasdaq, potentially becoming the first publicly traded global robotaxi specialist.Northvolt, a Swedish battery maker, is seeking financial support to address production challenges and workplace safety issues. Despite significant investment and expansion plans, Northvolt has faced production delays, workplace incidents, and canceled orders. A rescue package is being negotiated, highlighting challenges in Europe's battery manufacturing sector.Rivian and Bosch are embroiled in legal disputes over e-motor supply. Rivian alleges insufficient supply led to production issues, while Bosch claims Rivian breached contracts by developing its own motors. The lawsuits reflect tensions as Rivian shifts to in-house production to control its supply chain.Hyundai's IONIQ 5 now features an ultra-fast lease offer, enabling customers to upgrade to new models regularly. Based on the E-GMP platform, the 2024 IONIQ 5 offers over 300 miles of range and fast charging. Hyundai's strategy includes flexibility for customers, aligning with their approach to mobile phone upgrades.
Tesla has showcased its upcoming wireless electric vehicle charging station, a feature that aligns with its goal to automate charging for self-driving vehicles. This wireless charging solution, revealed at the Robotaxi unveiling, is a shift from Tesla’s previous preference for an automated robot arm. Tesla’s chief designer confirmed its development, and a new video provides more details about its design and functionality. This solution is not equivalent to Tesla's Supercharger network's level 3 DC fast charging but exceeds typical level 2 home charging rates. Tesla also revealed its Powerwall app update, offering new functionalities for offline use and power monitoring.Tesla's Full Self-Driving system is under investigation by NHTSA following crashes in low-visibility conditions. The Office of Defects Investigation identified several reports under these conditions, including a fatal incident. This preliminary evaluation covers Tesla vehicles built since 2016 and could potentially lead to a recall. Despite previous evaluations not resulting in significant recalls, this investigation highlights ongoing concerns about FSD's capability in adverse weather.Tesla is making the Cybertruck available for orders without requiring previous reservations. Initially revealed in 2019, the Cybertruck now starts at $79,990, a change from its initially promised $39,900. Tesla has reportedly sold 30,000 units, and its quick production ramp-up signals a strong market position. However, the conversion rate from reservations is low, potentially due to pricing changes and competition from other electric pickups.
【BYD】
BYD has officially launched the Seal 06 GT in China, a sporty electric hatchback at a lower price than initially promised. Based on the Seal fastback sedan, the Seal 06 GT is part of BYD's "Ocean" range and features a new 3.0 Evo 800V platform for rapid charging. It offers four trim options with various ranges and powertrains, and it marks a key model in BYD’s expansion in Europe.
【Others】
Kia's EV2, a smaller and more affordable electric SUV, has been spotted testing ahead of its 2026 release. Part of Kia's "EVs for all" strategy, the EV2 aims for a price around $30,000 in Europe, with lower prices in Korea. Kia is expanding its EV lineup, including models like the EV5, already making an impact globally.Pony.ai, an autonomous driving technology company, has filed for a US IPO following revenue growth. Known for its robotaxi services, Pony.ai has operations in China and the US and partnerships with major OEMs. The company seeks to trade on Nasdaq, potentially becoming the first publicly traded global robotaxi specialist.Northvolt, a Swedish battery maker, is seeking financial support to address production challenges and workplace safety issues. Despite significant investment and expansion plans, Northvolt has faced production delays, workplace incidents, and canceled orders. A rescue package is being negotiated, highlighting challenges in Europe's battery manufacturing sector.Rivian and Bosch are embroiled in legal disputes over e-motor supply. Rivian alleges insufficient supply led to production issues, while Bosch claims Rivian breached contracts by developing its own motors. The lawsuits reflect tensions as Rivian shifts to in-house production to control its supply chain.Hyundai's IONIQ 5 now features an ultra-fast lease offer, enabling customers to upgrade to new models regularly. Based on the E-GMP platform, the 2024 IONIQ 5 offers over 300 miles of range and fast charging. Hyundai's strategy includes flexibility for customers, aligning with their approach to mobile phone upgrades.