21.
HN
Tesla avoids 30-day California sales suspension
Tesla successfully avoided a 30-day suspension of its dealer and manufacturer licenses in California by adhering to a DMV directive that required it to discontinue the use of potentially misleading terms "Autopilot" and "Full Self-Driving" in its marketing efforts. This case originated in 2021, stemming from concerns about deceptive advertising practices suggesting greater vehicle autonomy than actually provided. After nearly three years, an administrative judge ruled that Tesla's terminology contravened state law.
In compliance with the ruling, Tesla ceased using the term "Autopilot" for standalone products and modified its branding of "Full Self-Driving" to emphasize the necessity of driver supervision. Additionally, Tesla introduced a subscription-based model for Full Self-Driving capabilities at $99 per month, aligning this change with the DMV's compliance deadline.
The timing of these adjustments sparked speculation regarding Tesla's motivations, implying that regulatory pressure played a significant role in their decision-making process rather than purely strategic business considerations. While avoiding a sales prohibition in its largest U.S. market, Tesla continues to navigate challenges related to consumer perceptions and expectations about its autonomous driving technology and capabilities.
Keywords: #phi4, ADAS, Autopilot, California DMV, Full Self-Driving (FSD), Tesla, compliance deadline, consumer perception, driver-assistance features, misleading marketing, regulatory action, subscription model, suspension
electrek.co 2 hours ago
|
50.
HN
Why Europe doesn't have a Tesla
Europe's absence of tech giants akin to Google or automotive leaders like Tesla can be attributed to several interrelated factors despite its historical strengths. A significant impediment is the stringent labor laws that make it costly for companies to terminate employees, thus stifling innovation and risk-taking. These regulations involve high severance payments, intricate redundancy procedures, and regulatory constraints that deter businesses from exploring experimental sectors prone to job discontinuation. Consequently, European firms often gravitate towards stable industries at the expense of innovative ventures.
In contrast, regions like California exhibit a more favorable environment for innovation, exemplified by Waymo's success in American cities, largely due to a flexible labor market. European legislation, such as Germany’s Protection Against Dismissal Act, is designed to safeguard workers but results in significant costs for businesses when restructuring or innovating is necessary. Although small European economies like Denmark have implemented systems like flexicurity that balance worker security with innovation, larger countries face challenges reconciling employment protection with fostering a dynamic business climate.
Historical evidence suggests Europe was once receptive to radical innovations, as illustrated by the automotive industry's transition from steam to petrol engines. To cultivate modern equivalents of Tesla or similar tech leaders, Europe might need to reform its labor laws by shifting towards more adaptable models that protect workers' incomes through government support rather than employer obligations. Such reforms could potentially enhance innovation while maintaining worker security, a balance achieved in some smaller European nations and neighboring regions like Denmark and Switzerland.
Keywords: #phi4, Europe, Innovation, Tesla, automation, employment protection, entrepreneurship, flexicurity, labor laws, regulation, restructuring, severance costs, startups, venture capital
worksinprogress.co 4 hours ago
|
65.
HN
Tesla announces Powerwall 3P with native three-phase inverter
Tesla has launched the Powerwall 3P specifically tailored for European markets, featuring a built-in three-phase inverter that simplifies installation by eliminating the need for multiple units. This innovation is particularly advantageous for Germany, where three-phase residential grids are common, offering streamlined home backup solutions and potential cost savings over previous multi-unit setups. Although specific specifications and pricing have not been revealed, the Powerwall 3P includes features like dynamic tariff adjustments to optimize energy use in markets such as Germany.
Tesla's Energy division has demonstrated significant growth, contributing substantially to the company's revenue and profit despite challenges within its automotive sector. The strategic introduction of the Powerwall 3P aims to strengthen Tesla’s position amidst increasing competition from European brands like Enphase and BYD. Despite potential obstacles including brand perception issues and regulatory changes affecting incentives, Tesla is banking on the simplicity and cost-effectiveness of the Powerwall 3P to differentiate itself in a competitive market.
The success of this product could be crucial for maintaining demand for Tesla's energy products as U.S. sales experience a slowdown, highlighting its importance in Tesla’s overall strategy amidst shifting market dynamics.
Keywords: #phi4, BYD, Enphase, Europe, Germany, Powerwall, Sonnen, Tesla, backup, brand issues, capacity, competition, energy storage, engineering, installation, integration, inverter, market, simplification, tariffs, three-phase
electrek.co 5 hours ago
|
107.
HN
Tesla rolls first steering wheel-less Cybercab unit off the line
Tesla has launched production of its first Cybercab at Gigafactory Texas, a vehicle designed to function without steering wheels or pedals, relying entirely on untested self-driving software acknowledged by Tesla to be unresolved. The initial unit was rolled off the line, but full-scale production is not anticipated until April 2026. Recent data from Tesla's Austin robotaxi program reveals concerning issues, with crash rates nearly quadruple those of human drivers and limited service availability at just 19%, casting doubts on the Cybercab’s reliability. Elon Musk aims to achieve safe autonomous driving by July 2026 through gathering 10 billion miles of driving data; however, significant challenges remain in making this technology viable.
The introduction of the Cybercab follows a history of Tesla's hardware adjustments predicated on expected advancements in self-driving capabilities that have yet to materialize. Previous decisions to remove steering wheels and sensors were reversed after proving impractical, highlighting risks with the current approach of eliminating driver controls without backup options. Critics consider releasing such an advanced autonomous vehicle premature, given its unresolved technology. While Musk envisions a future dominated by autonomous vehicles, existing performance metrics and developmental timelines indicate substantial obstacles must be overcome before Cybercab can effectively serve as an autonomous taxi.
Keywords: #phi4, AI5 chip, Austin, Cybercab, Full Self-Driving, Gigafactory Texas, Robotaxi, Robyn Denholm, San Francisco, Tesla, autonomous driving, crashes, inductive charging, pedals, radar, reckless, retrofit, safety monitor, software, steering wheel-less, trademark, turn signal stalk, ultrasonic sensors, yoke steering wheel
electrek.co 8 hours ago
|
126.
HN
Tesla drops 'Autopilot' branding in California after DMV order
Tesla has complied with a directive from the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to change how it markets its advanced driver assistance systems, namely "Autopilot" and "Full Self-Driving." This compliance comes after the DMV issued an order on December 16, 2025, requiring Tesla to clarify that these technologies necessitate driver supervision, addressing concerns over potentially misleading claims regarding their autonomy. In response by a February 17, 2026 deadline, Tesla revised its marketing language and updated its website accordingly. Although the DMV initially considered suspending Tesla's licenses for non-compliance, they allowed time for adjustments instead. Meanwhile, Tesla is transitioning production at its Fremont facility to focus on building Optimus robots, which are not expected to be regulated by the DMV in this context. The company has yet to indicate whether it will apply similar marketing changes beyond California.
Keywords: #phi4, ADAS, Autopilot, California DMV, Fremont facility, Full Self-Driving, Optimus robots, Tesla, compliance, corrective action, driver supervision, license suspension, marketing, safety
www.theregister.com 9 hours ago
|
154.
HN
The resources I'm using to learn Maths, AI and Robotics
The author recently transitioned from Tesla to an AI and robotics role at Yaak AI, bringing a background as a self-taught programmer without formal studies in mathematics or AI. To support this career shift, they are leveraging specific resources focused on these areas. For mathematics, they are using "A Programmer’s Introduction to Mathematics" by Jeremy Kun, which rebuilds mathematical concepts through coding, covering topics such as polynomials, sets, graphs, calculus, linear algebra, eigenvectors/eigenvalues, and groups. The author suggests finding used physical copies or accessing it via a flexible payment option. Additionally, they are utilizing "Essence of Calculus" and "Linear Algebra" by 3Blue1Brown, noted for their engaging animations and comprehensive text versions that aid in understanding foundational concepts.
In the realm of AI and robotics, the author refers to "Deep Learning" by Goodfellow, Bengio, and Courville as a reference guide and includes "Society of Mind" by Marvin Minsky, acknowledging its relevance despite not being directly related to their current studies. The author plans to integrate videos, courses, papers, blogs, and articles gradually into their learning process to avoid becoming overwhelmed and is open to receiving recommendations via Twitter or email. Their engagement with a Franka FR3 robotic arm further underscores their active involvement in the field of robotics.
Keywords: #phi4, 3Blue1Brown, AI, Autodidact, Bengio, Calculus, Courville, Deep Learning, Eigenvectors, Franka FR3, Goodfellow, Graphs, Groups, Linear Algebra, Marvin Minsky, Maths, Optimization, Polynomials, Programming, Robotics, Sets, Tesla, Yaak AI
parsam.io 12 hours ago
|
167.
HN
Show HN: SideDisplay – Turn Tesla screen into a wireless second monitor for Mac
SideDisplay is a macOS application that enables the display of a Tesla Model X to function as a wireless second monitor for Mac users, developed after extensive experimentation spanning over a year. It utilizes WebRTC technology along with software solutions such as iPhone USB tethering, macOS Internet Sharing, and Apple's CGVirtualDisplay API to avoid additional hardware costs. The app effectively bypasses Tesla's browser restrictions that prevent connections from private IP ranges by leveraging public IPs instead. SideDisplay offers users the opportunity to test its capabilities through a free trial limited in daily usage, along with an affordable subscription option for unlimited access. Compatibility requires an Apple Silicon Mac running macOS 26 or later. For those interested in the app's development journey, more information is available on their website.
Keywords: #phi4, Apple Silicon, CGVirtualDisplay API, Internet Sharing, LTE router, Mac, MacBook, OBS streaming, OpenWrt router, RFC 1918, SideDisplay, Tesla, Tesla Web Browser, WebRTC, development story, dummy HDMI, hardware mod, latency, macOS 26, macOS app, private IP ranges, public IP addresses Keywords: Tesla, second monitor, security measure, software updates, wireless
sidedisplay.co 14 hours ago
|
180.
HN
Why Europe doesn't have a Tesla
Europe faces challenges in cultivating tech giants comparable to Tesla due to stringent labor regulations that increase the cost of workforce adjustments. These regulations involve extensive severance requirements and social selection criteria when laying off employees, based on factors like age and tenure. Such legal frameworks disincentivize innovation by making companies wary of creating jobs that could become redundant, particularly in innovative sectors where failure rates are higher. In contrast, the more flexible U.S. labor markets allow for greater risk-taking without the burden of high severance costs, fostering a culture of groundbreaking innovations over incremental improvements.
European firms often prioritize minor enhancements rather than radical innovations due to these regulatory constraints. Notable examples include Volkswagen's expensive restructuring efforts and Audi's struggles with its electric SUV development, both hindered by inflexible employment laws. Many startups also opt to relocate outside Europe to evade such restrictions, further stifling local innovation potential. However, some smaller European economies have adopted more adaptable frameworks like "flexicurity," which balances job security with incentives for innovation through easier hiring and firing practices combined with strong social safety nets.
To stimulate innovation akin to the U.S., Europe needs a shift in labor market policies that doesn't completely forsake worker protections but instead incorporates elements from successful models, such as Denmark's approach. This model pairs flexibility with robust unemployment benefits and retraining programs, offering a blueprint for reform. Implementing similar changes could help European countries regain their competitive edge in high-tech industries and nurture future innovators comparable to Tesla.
Keywords: #phi4, American companies, Economic Model, Europe, Innovation, Nokia, Tesla, Volkswagen, Waymo, automation, economic model Keywords: Innovation, electric vehicles, employment protection, entrepreneurship, flexicurity, labor laws, regulatory approaches, restructuring, severance costs, startups, venture capital
worksinprogress.co 18 hours ago
|
198.
HN
Tesla Robotaxis Reportedly Crashing at a Rate That's 4x Higher Than Humans
Tesla's robotaxi fleet in Austin has reportedly been involved in five recent crashes, raising safety concerns due to a crash rate four times higher than that of average human drivers. These incidents include collisions with fixed objects and vehicles like buses and trucks while operating autonomously. Tesla disclosed these crashes covering December 2025 and January, contributing to a total of 14 reported accidents since the fleet's inception in June of the previous year, averaging one crash every 57,000 miles driven. This frequency contrasts sharply with Tesla’s Vehicle Safety Report, which indicates that average U.S. drivers experience minor crashes at about 229,000 miles and major ones at around 699,000 miles. Unlike competitors such as Waymo and Zoox, Tesla has redacted details of these incidents in public crash reports. Moreover, a previous report was revised to indicate hospitalization following what was initially deemed property damage only. Concurrently, other autonomous vehicle companies like Waymo face scrutiny over their self-driving systems, including an investigation into an accident involving a child near a school and issues with stopping at school buses.
Keywords: #phi4, Austin, Autonomous, Collision, Crashes, Defects Investigation, Drop-off Hours, Electrek, Fleet, Investigation, Major Collision, Miles, Minor Crash, Model Y, NHTSA, Robotaxis, Safety, School Bus, Self-driving, Tesla, Transparency, Vehicle Safety Report, Waymo, Zoox
gizmodo.com 22 hours ago
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=47051559 21 hours ago
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=47051546 21 hours ago
https://electrek.co/2026/02/17/tesla-robotaxi 21 hours ago
https://waymo.com/safety/impact/ 21 hours ago
https://electrek.co/2026/02/17/tesla-rolls-fi 18 hours ago
|
241.
HN
Tesla's 45 Austin Robotaxis now have 14 crashes on the books since June 2025
Since June 2025, Tesla's fleet of 45 Austin Robotaxis has experienced 14 crashes over approximately 800,000 paid miles, translating to an average crash rate of one every 57,000 miles—a frequency higher than the U.S. national average of one crash per 500,000 miles. In January alone, Tesla reported five additional incidents to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which included a collision with a fixed object at 17 mph while traveling straight and a stationary impact with a bus. Other low-speed collisions occurred during backing maneuvers involving heavy trucks and other objects. Notably, one earlier crash was updated to reflect that a passenger required hospitalization following the incident. Despite these safety concerns, Tesla's stock experienced an uptick after CEO Elon Musk announced that the Robotaxis were being operated without a designated safety monitor, underscoring investor confidence despite ongoing technical and operational challenges.
Keywords: #phi4, Austin, Electrek, Elon Musk, NHTSA, Robotaxis, Tesla, X post, backing incidents, bus collision, crashes, fixed object, heavy truck, hospitalization, paid miles, safety monitor, shares
sherwood.news a day ago
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=47051546 a day ago
https://finance.yahoo.com/news/why-elon-musk-1-trillion 23 hours ago
|
242.
HN
Tesla 'Robotaxi' adds 5 more crashes in Austin in a month – 4x worse than humans
Tesla's Robotaxi fleet in Austin has been involved in 14 crashes since its launch in June 2025, with an additional five incidents reported between December 2025 and January 2026. A significant concern is the lack of transparency from Tesla, as details about these incidents are redacted, though a July 2025 crash was later updated to note hospitalization. The fleet's crash rate is one every 57,000 miles, markedly higher than the average human driver's rate of one minor collision per 229,000 miles, even with safety monitors present for each trip. In contrast, Waymo reports fewer incidents over a larger mileage without needing safety drivers. Tesla stands out among other autonomous driving system (ADS) companies by withholding detailed narratives about its crashes. Despite these issues and the absence of regulatory intervention, Tesla began offering rides in Austin without safety monitors by late January 2026, raising further concerns given their higher-than-average crash rate and lack of transparency.
Keywords: #phi4, ADS operator, Austin, Model Y, NHTSA, Robotaxi, Tesla, Vehicle Safety Report, Waymo, Zoox, autonomous driving system, crashes, human driver rate, injury severity, narrative redaction, police-reported crash average, rides without safety monitor, safety data, safety monitor, transparency
electrek.co a day ago
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fisher%27s_exact_test a day ago
https://web.archive.org/web/20241211115851/https:& a day ago
https://www.tesla.com/fsd/safety a day ago
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=14600924 a day ago
https://www.businessinsider.com/musks-claim-teslas-appreciat a day ago
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/22/musk-tesla-ro a day ago
https://www.rubensteinandrynecki.com/brooklyn/taxi-acci a day ago
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photon_counting a day ago
https://www.sony-semicon.com/files/62/pdf/p-1 a day ago
https://www.fastcompany.com/91491273/waymo-vehicle-hit- a day ago
https://faq.usps.com/s/article/What-Options-Do-I-H 22 hours ago
https://finance.yahoo.com/quote/TSLA/ 22 hours ago
|
286.
HN
Why Europe doesn't have a Tesla
Europe's lack of major tech giants like Tesla is largely due to stringent labor laws that make layoffs costly and complex, discouraging companies from engaging in risky ventures essential for innovation. Unlike California, where high costs do not stifle creativity, European regulations impose significant financial burdens on restructuring efforts. This includes hefty severance packages and extensive negotiation processes with works councils, especially notable in countries like Germany and France, which require social selection tests and comprehensive approval procedures, respectively.
These regulatory hurdles lead companies to favor established industries over innovative sectors prone to failure, such as self-driving cars or new electric vehicle lines. For instance, Volkswagen has faced challenges transitioning to electric vehicles due to these constraints, while Audi has incurred high costs from severance schemes. This contrasts with American firms that can pivot more freely without facing similar financial repercussions.
However, some smaller European nations have adopted the "flexicurity" model, which balances job security and labor market flexibility. By looking at Denmark or Switzerland's successful integration of flexible markets with robust social safety nets, Europe could potentially reform its regulations to foster innovation while upholding its social values. Historical examples, like De Dion-Bouton's early automotive advancements, demonstrate that Europe has the capacity for technological leadership if regulatory changes are made to support innovation.
Keywords: #phi4, American companies, Economic Model, Europe, Innovation, Nokia, Tesla, Volkswagen, Waymo, automation, economic model Keywords: Innovation, electric vehicles, employment protection, entrepreneurship, flexicurity, labor laws, regulatory approaches, restructuring, severance costs, startups, venture capital
worksinprogress.co a day ago
|
294.
HN
AI giants are hoarding memory chips, pushing prices to hyperinflation levels
The global memory chip market is grappling with a severe shortage primarily driven by heightened demand from AI data centers operated by major tech companies such as Alphabet Inc., Amazon.com Inc., Microsoft Corp., and Meta Platforms Inc. This surge stems from the shift toward artificial intelligence technologies, which necessitate large quantities of high-bandwidth memory (HBM) to power advanced applications like Nvidia’s AI accelerators. Consequently, consumer electronics manufacturers are contending with increased competition for limited supplies of dynamic random access memory (DRAM) chips from suppliers such as Samsung Electronics Co. and Micron Technology Inc., resulting in significant price increases—up to 75% in some instances—and forcing companies across diverse sectors including automotive, smartphones, and gaming consoles to revise production schedules or elevate product prices.
The repercussions of these shortages are extensive: industry leaders like Elon Musk have voiced concerns about maintaining production levels, with Musk contemplating the construction of Tesla’s own memory fabrication plant. Additionally, corporations such as Sony Group Corp. and Nintendo Co. are reconsidering their product launch timelines and pricing strategies due to component scarcity. Analysts anticipate that this supply-demand imbalance will persist until at least 2026, further exacerbated by inventory deficits and ongoing price inflation akin to past hyperinflation scenarios.
With AI investments projected to reach $650 billion in 2026, DRAM shortages are expected to have a global impact, potentially inciting panic buying and encouraging shifts toward alternative technologies. The industry's focus on prioritizing HBM over traditional DRAM is causing significant disruptions, jeopardizing the profitability of numerous product lines. While suppliers like Samsung and Micron may benefit from lucrative returns due to high margins on HBMs, consumer electronics producers face a challenging environment in acquiring essential components at reasonable prices.
Keywords: #phi4, AI accelerators, AI data centers, ChatGPT, Counterpoint analyst Keywords: Memory chips, DRAM, GF Securities, HBM, Hyperlink, Memory chips, Micron Technology, NAND, NVL72, Nvidia, Samsung Electronics, Tesla, capital expenditures, consumer electronics, data centers, hyperinflation, hyperscalers, memory fabrication plant, price spikes, production constraints, profitability, semiconductor industry, shortage, supply-demand imbalance, tech industry leaders
www.latimes.com a day ago
|
323.
HN
Tesla Sales Down 55% UK, 58% Spain, 59% Germany, 81% Netherlands, 93% Norway
Tesla has experienced significant declines in vehicle sales across several European markets from January 2024 to January 2026, with notable drops of 55% in the UK, 59% in Germany, 81% in the Netherlands, and a dramatic 93% decrease in Norway. Denmark also saw a decline of 44%, while Spain's sales decreased by 58%. Despite these declines, some markets showed growth: Italy recorded an 82% increase, Sweden experienced a temporary dip but grew 127% since January 2023, Portugal rose 64% over three years, and Ireland had a substantial rise of 117% compared to 2024. Finland's sales increased by 33%, and Austria saw an impressive 85% growth from the same period.
Overall, Tesla’s sales in these 13 European markets fell nearly half (49.5%) from January 2024 to January 2026. This downturn is indicative of broader challenges for Tesla, as it struggles with underperformance relative to its projected growth rates and faces declining sales not only in Europe but also in other key markets like China and the US. While there are positive trends in certain countries, the overall decline highlights concerns about Tesla's ability to meet market expectations and maintain growth momentum across its global operations.
Keywords: #phi4, Austria, Denmark, Europe, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tesla, UK, data, decline, drop, growth, market, performance, sales, trend
cleantechnica.com a day ago
https://eu-evs.com/marketShare/ALL/Groups/Bar a day ago
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meme_stock a day ago
https://www.autonews.com/byd/ane-byd-discounts-germany- a day ago
https://finance.yahoo.com/news/chinas-byd-overtakes-for a day ago
https://cnevpost.com/2026/01/27/byd-european- a day ago
https://www.carscoops.com/2025/11/byd-sold-nearly- a day ago
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=42228138 a day ago
https://www.volkswagen-group.com/en/press-releases/ 22 hours ago
https://business.carsales.com.au/news-room/news/vf 20 hours ago
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NVX6vq0RSnY 17 hours ago
https://old.reddit.com/r/robotics/comments/1p 17 hours ago
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R40IDdAkRZM 17 hours ago
https://www.theautopian.com/elon-musk-doesnt-see-cars-as-a-p 17 hours ago
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=47051546 15 hours ago
https://insideevs.com/news/784404/mercedes-level-3 15 hours ago
https://www.reddit.com/r/robotics/comments/1p 15 hours ago
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Energetically_Autonomous_ 15 hours ago
https://cleantechnica.com/2024/01/25/25000-te 15 hours ago
https://www.msn.com/en-us/autos/news/tesla-sa 15 hours ago
https://www.businessinsider.com/tesla-cybercab-robotaxi-prod 15 hours ago
https://www.macrotrends.net/stocks/charts/AAPL 15 hours ago
https://lithiumbattery.en.made-in-china.com/product/kED 15 hours ago
https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2025/08& 10 hours ago
https://archive.ph/K4ckR 10 hours ago
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=45062614 10 hours ago
https://www.gurufocus.com/news/8623960/tesla-tsla- 10 hours ago
https://statmodeling.stat.columbia.edu/2025/04/19& 10 hours ago
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNorxwlZlFk&t=9s 10 hours ago
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LeeiN9smjjY 10 hours ago
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2025_United_States_federa 10 hours ago
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tesla%2C_Inc.#Finances 10 hours ago
https://markets.businessinsider.com/news/stocks/el 10 hours ago
https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/interactive&# 10 hours ago
https://www.reddit.com/r/electricvehicles/comments 10 hours ago
|
465.
HN
Tesla 'Robotaxi' status check: 8 months in, 19% availability
Tesla's "Robotaxi" initiative in Austin has not met its early promises, with significant gaps between projected goals and actual performance. Despite claims of reaching 500 vehicles by the end of 2025 with extensive coverage, the service currently operates only about 42 cars with an availability rate of just 19%. Elon Musk's assurance of fully unsupervised rides is contradicted by ongoing reliance on safety monitors; instances without them are limited to specific areas and short durations. In comparison, competitors like Waymo have successfully deployed over 100 autonomous vehicles in Austin with consistent service, highlighting Tesla's challenges. Frequent operational shutdowns at Tesla, especially during rain, and a higher crash rate compared to human drivers underscore reliability and safety concerns. Without transparent incident reporting, these issues remain unaddressed. As Tesla faces operational difficulties, its expansion plans to other cities are uncertain. Despite Musk's ambitious declarations, the program is more akin to an experimental pilot than a scalable commercial venture, struggling with both service reliability and advancements in autonomy technology.
Keywords: #phi4, Austin, NHTSA, Robotaxi, Tesla, Waymo, availability, cameras, crash rate, fleet size, lidar, radar, scaling problems, unsupervised
electrek.co 2 days ago
|
492.
HN
Show HN: Browser based audio driver for Tesla coils (no coil required)
The Tesla Coil Audio Driver is a browser-based application designed to enable users to operate musical Tesla coils via their web browsers, transforming audio signals into high-voltage electrical arcs using sound patterns reminiscent of lightning. This innovative tool generates precise square wave audio signals that the coil's interrupter converts into spark sequences, allowing for music playback through user-selected audio tracks. Users have connectivity options including Bluetooth and a 3.5mm cable to connect their devices. For those with existing Tesla coils, an initial calibration via a sync process is necessary to adjust for latency. The driver also features community elements where users can engage in competitive activities on leaderboards, share music sequences, and explore creative works by others. This tool offers a unique experience of creating music using the natural phenomenon of lightning while providing functionalities that eliminate the need for an actual Tesla coil during demonstrations.
Keywords: #phi4, Bluetooth, Tesla coils, audio driver, browser-based, community creations, high-voltage, interrupting, latency, leaderboards, lightning, musical Tesla coils, pressure waves, resonant transformer, square wave
teslacoil.app 2 days ago
|
786.
HN
Promises Are Cheap
The article critiques tech leaders' tendency to make grandiose promises about artificial intelligence advancements, drawing parallels to past predictions by figures like Elon Musk. It highlights Microsoft’s AI CEO making ambitious claims in a Financial Times interview, emphasizing the persistent issues with current AI language models (LLMs), such as hallucinations and flawed reasoning, illustrated by increasing documented cases involving lawyers. Despite these challenges, tech CEOs continue to issue bold forecasts freely, often using media platforms to generate hype without delivering tangible results. This unchecked promotion is compounded by media outlets that fail to provide context or seek independent opinions, potentially misleading the public. The article warns that this lack of scrutiny in reporting could contribute to future discrepancies between AI development expectations and reality.
Keywords: #phi4, AI, AI CEO, CEO, Collapse, Damien Charlotin, Elon Musk, FT, Geoff Hinton, Hallucinations, LLM hallucinations, Microsoft, Promises, Remote Labor Index, Tesla, collapse Keywords: Promises, deep learning, earnings, hype, independent opinions, lawyers, media companies, narrative, public service, radiologists
garymarcus.substack.com 4 days ago
|
996.
HN
Promises Are Cheap
The article offers a critical analysis of tech leaders, including Microsoft's AI CEO and Elon Musk, who frequently make exaggerated claims about the capabilities of artificial intelligence (AI) that often remain unrealized. It underscores how Large Language Models (LLMs), despite their advanced technology, can produce "hallucinations" or inaccurate information—a problem increasingly documented in professional fields such as law. Contrary to some predictions suggesting AI could automate a wide range of tasks, the article reveals that only a small fraction are currently feasible for automation. Historical overestimations, like those by Geoff Hinton regarding AI outperforming radiologists, highlight persistent discrepancies between AI hype and practical reality.
The critique extends to tech CEOs who leverage their platforms to amplify these exaggerations without facing accountability, influencing media outlets such as the Financial Times (FT) that often perpetuate these claims uncritically. This narrative can mislead the public by failing to provide necessary context or skepticism concerning AI predictions. The article advocates for stricter journalistic standards to prevent misleading the public and to mitigate potential fallout from unmet expectations in the development of AI technologies.
Keywords: #phi4, AI, AI CEO, CEO, Collapse, Damien Charlotin, Elon Musk, FT, Geoff Hinton, Hallucinations, LLM hallucinations, Microsoft, Promises, Remote Labor Index, Tesla, collapse Keywords: Promises, earnings, hype, lawyers, media companies, predictions, public, radiologists, skepticism
garymarcus.substack.com 5 days ago
|
1066.
HN
Tesla sales in China crash 45% to lowest level in over three years
Tesla experienced a sharp 45% drop in its January sales in China, marking the lowest monthly figures over three years at 18,485 units sold domestically. This downturn contrasts starkly with December's record sales of 93,843 units and signifies an ongoing trend of declining demand within the region. Although Tesla's Shanghai factory increased production by 9.3% year-over-year to 69,129 units, a significant portion (73%) was earmarked for export rather than local sale.
Several factors influenced this decline: the reinstatement of a 5% purchase tax on new energy vehicles in January 2026 encouraged buyers to expedite purchases before December's end when no tax applied. Additionally, the expiration of vehicle trade-in subsidies coincided with a general downturn in China’s NEV market, further eroding demand. Tesla's Model Y notably plummeted in domestic retail rankings, slipping from high-volume sales to only 20th place, as competitors like Xiaomi gained more market share.
Despite efforts such as offering 0% financing and insurance subsidies, Tesla faces stiff competition from local automakers that frequently refresh their models with competitive pricing. The persistent decline in domestic sales highlights structural challenges for Tesla amid aging models and intense rivalry from rapidly expanding Chinese manufacturers, underscoring the need for strategic adjustments to regain market foothold.
Keywords: #phi4, China, Giga Shanghai, Model 3, Model Y, NEV market, Tesla, Xiaomi, competition, crash, decline, domestic retail, exports, financing, innovation, sales, subsidies
electrek.co 6 days ago
|
1197.
HN
Tesla's Self-Driving Has Gotten Amazing
Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology has undergone substantial evolution since its inception, maturing into a sophisticated system that mirrors human driving capabilities. Initial versions were marred by challenges such as sudden braking and navigational errors; however, the integration of generative AI in 2024 marked a turning point for its performance. By utilizing Tesla's extensive database of human-driven footage to train AI models, the software experienced significant enhancements over time. Presently, FSD is adept at managing intricate driving scenarios, impressing users with its ability to seamlessly navigate congested traffic, construction zones, and execute autonomous parking.
In contrast to Tesla’s expansive operational environment, Waymo's self-driving taxis offer a high level of safety but are confined to predetermined routes. Meanwhile, Tesla's FSD demonstrates versatility by operating in various settings, including testing human-free Robotaxis in Austin. Although not without flaws, these advancements indicate a future dominated by AI-driven vehicles, raising considerations about their implications for car insurance, driving education, and the reconfiguration of urban infrastructures.
Despite facing challenges tied to Elon Musk's public image and internal company issues, Tesla’s pioneering technology continues to attract significant interest. The shift from human to AI drivers introduces both excitement and uncertainty, heralding transformative changes in transportation and city planning, with potential long-lasting impacts on how societies organize and manage mobility.
Keywords: #phi4, AI (Artificial Intelligence), Austin, Autonomous Vehicles, Cameras, Car Ownership, Construction Zones, Driver's Licenses, Edge Cases, Elon Musk, FSD (Full Self-Driving), Generative AI, Human Driving, Innovation, Insurance, Machine Learning, Model Y, Navigation, Navigation Errors, Parking, Robotaxis, Safety, Self-Driving, Software, Software Updates, Technology, Tesla, Traffic, Transition Period, Urban Planning, Waymo, YouTube
pogueman.substack.com 6 days ago
|
1224.
HN
List of predictions for autonomous Tesla vehicles by Elon Musk
Elon Musk has consistently outlined ambitious predictions concerning the evolution of autonomous driving technology in Tesla vehicles from 2013 to 2026. Initially envisioning a high degree of autonomy by 2016, particularly on highways with up to 90% self-driving capability, Musk's timeline for full self-driving capabilities suggested that these would be realized within two years by 2018, potentially enabling coast-to-coast autonomous travel without human intervention by 2019. By the end of 2020, his aim was to achieve level five autonomy—a fully autonomous vehicle requiring no driver interaction—despite anticipated regulatory challenges.
As Tesla progressed into the 2020s, Musk projected that by early 2021, these vehicles would be reliably deployed in urban settings. By 2022, Tesla aimed for widespread distribution of self-driving capabilities across the U.S., contingent on regulatory approvals. In addition to improving existing models, ambitious plans included launching a fleet of autonomous robotaxis and introducing the CyberCab—a futuristic vehicle without traditional steering wheels or pedals—planned for production by April 2026.
Musk anticipated rolling out unsupervised Full Self-Driving (FSD) in select cities such as Austin by mid-2025. This rollout aimed to facilitate vehicles' capability to operate autonomously from factory delivery to customer homes within the same year. Despite occasionally overestimating timelines, Tesla's overarching vision remains focused on achieving widespread adoption of autonomous vehicle technology for both personal and shared transport contexts by 2026, highlighting ongoing efforts to overcome technical challenges and regulatory barriers.
Keywords: #phi4, Autonomous, CyberCab, Elon Musk, FSD (Full Self-Driving), Tesla, autopilot, full autonomy, predictions, regulatory approval, ride hailing, robotaxis, safety monitor, self-driving, vehicles
en.wikipedia.org 6 days ago
|
1229.
HN
AI Fatigue: A Software Engineer Warns of Mental Costs to Productivity Gains
Siddhant Khare, a software engineer who develops AI tools, raises concerns about "AI fatigue," which describes the mental exhaustion experienced despite productivity gains from using AI systems. While these tools enhance coding efficiency by increasing output, they simultaneously demand greater coordination and frequent context-switching, contributing to cognitive burnout among users. This paradox results in heightened workloads as tasks become more intensified rather than streamlined by AI technologies. The issue is not isolated to Khare; many industry professionals report similar levels of exhaustion due to constant interaction with AI systems. Additionally, there are worries about the atrophy of traditional skills and the challenge of keeping pace with rapid advancements in AI technology, leading to a pervasive sense of fear of missing out (FOMO) among developers. To address these challenges, Khare advocates for personal strategies such as limiting AI usage and taking breaks from related discussions. He also urges AI companies to establish guardrails that prevent overreliance on their tools, promoting healthier user interactions with technology.
Keywords: #phi4, AI Fatigue, AI Tools, Andrej Karpathy, Anthropic, Burnout, Cognitive Fatigue, Concurrency Problem, Context Switching, Exhaustion, GPS Navigation, Ground Rules, OpenAI, Phase Shift, Productivity Gains, Skill Atrophy, Software Engineer, Tesla, Vibe Coding, Workload Intensification
www.businessinsider.com 6 days ago
|
1305.
HN
Tesla partners with Tencent to bring WeChat inside over 1 million cars in China
Tesla has established a strategic collaboration with Tencent to incorporate WeChat-linked features into more than one million Model 3 and Model Y vehicles sold in China. This integration, featuring "WeChat Connectivity" for one-tap location sharing and "Destination Services," leverages Tencent’s AI technologies to provide users with intelligent suggestions such as nearby amenities and parking options. By aligning itself more closely with China's digital ecosystem through this partnership, Tesla aims to enhance its appeal to local consumers amid a competitive landscape. This move is particularly significant as Tesla contends with strong competition from domestic electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers like BYD, NIO, and Xpeng, which have already developed sophisticated software ecosystems catering to Chinese consumer preferences. Although Tesla’s entry into WeChat integration comes later than other automakers—Tencent first introduced this feature in 2019—it is an essential step as Tesla navigates declining sales and strives to reestablish its market position within China's fast-growing EV sector. This partnership underscores Tesla's broader strategy of forming technological alliances to better meet the needs of Chinese consumers, despite entering the WeChat ecosystem integration at a later stage compared to other automakers.
Keywords: #phi4, AI, Alipay, BYD, China, Full Self-Driving, Giga Shanghai, Mini Programme, Model 3, Model Y, Tencent, Tesla, WeChat, Xiaomi, Xpeng, autonomous driving, cloud services, competition, connectivity, ecosystem, integration, navigation, payments, software
electrek.co 7 days ago
|
1308.
HN
With co-founders leaving and an IPO looming, Elon Musk turns talk to the moon
Elon Musk recently outlined ambitious future plans for his company xAI, highlighting the necessity to establish a lunar manufacturing facility designed to construct AI satellites with unmatched computing power. This initiative aligns with Musk's broader strategy that integrates efforts across Tesla, Neuralink, SpaceX, and The Boring Company, including potential operations on the Moon. Amid internal shifts at xAI, with several co-founders departing as it gears up for a historic IPO possibly linked to SpaceX, Musk is shifting SpaceX's focus from Mars colonization toward creating a self-sustaining lunar city—a goal he claims can be achieved more quickly than establishing a Martian colony.
The feasibility of this lunar vision relies on leveraging a legal framework that permits the ownership of materials extracted on the Moon under U.S. law, despite existing international treaties prohibiting territorial claims. This interpretation has sparked criticism and is not universally accepted. Nevertheless, Musk remains confident in xAI's rapid progress and leadership potential in its field, even amidst recent team changes. The strategic pivot reflects a broader vision to harness space resources and infrastructure for advancing AI capabilities.
Keywords: #phi4, AI satellites, Boring Company, China, Elon Musk, IPO, Jimmy Ba, Mars, Neuralink, Outer Space Treaty, Russia, Russia Comma-separated List: Elon Musk, Russia Extracted Keywords: Elon Musk, Russia Final Keywords: Elon Musk, Russia Keywords: Elon Musk, SpaceX, Tesla, Tony Wu, data centers, extraction, legal framework, lunar manufacturing, moon, orbital mechanics, physics, proprietary real-world data, sovereignty, xAI
techcrunch.com 7 days ago
|
1730.
HN
BYD outsells Tesla 10-to-1 in Australia as Chinese EVs dominate January sales
In January 2026, BYD achieved a remarkable milestone by outselling Tesla tenfold in Australia, with sales of 5,001 vehicles compared to Tesla's 501. This surge positioned BYD as the sixth best-selling brand and highlighted its growing dominance in the Australian electric vehicle (EV) market. The company's success can be attributed to popular models such as the Sealion 7 and Atto 2, along with strategic pricing that introduced Australia's first sub-$30,000 EV, the Dolphin. Meanwhile, Tesla faced a decline due to limited stock availability and a narrower product range compared to Chinese competitors. This shift is part of a broader trend where four Chinese brands have entered Australia’s top ten, contributing significantly to a 93.3% year-over-year increase in the country's overall EV sales. The competitive landscape in markets without tariffs on Chinese vehicles challenges Tesla’s traditional dominance, as evidenced by similar conditions elsewhere. Despite Tesla's brand recognition and Supercharger network, BYD's aggressive pricing strategy is proving effective in price-sensitive regions like Australia.
Keywords: #phi4, Atto 2, Australia, BYD, Chinese brands, Dolphin, EVs, January, Sealion 7, Supercharger network, Tesla, competition, market dominance, price-sensitive, sales, stock constraints, tariffs, value proposition
electrek.co 9 days ago
|
1748.
HN
Ask HN: Will Tesla ever be truly self driving?
On Hacker News, users engaged in a discussion regarding whether Tesla would achieve true self-driving capabilities, specifically level 4 or 5 autonomy. The conversation underscored the uncertainty surrounding this achievement due to potential unforeseen challenges and a broad range of possibilities that could affect development. One commenter pointed out skepticism about short-term predictions, suggesting that if Tesla possessed significant progress towards level 4 autonomy, Elon Musk would likely highlight it publicly rather than conceal it. Another user humorously questioned whether the inquiry pertained to a human-like Tesla robot, adding a light-hearted dimension to the discussion. Overall, the dialogue reflected widespread skepticism about both the timeline and feasibility of Tesla vehicles achieving full self-driving technology, illustrating broader concerns within the community regarding autonomous vehicle development.
Keywords: #phi4, Hacker News, Musk, Tesla, USA, alpha version, autonomous, bankruptcy, comments, jobs, level 4, level 5, robot, self-driving, surprises, timescales, video
news.ycombinator.com 9 days ago
|
1865.
HN
Tesla exec tells Congress ‘no one has ever’ taken control of its vehicles...
Tesla Vice President Lars Moravy testified before a Senate committee asserting that no one has ever remotely taken control of Tesla vehicles, a statement that contradicts documented incidents where hackers accessed Tesla systems. In 2017, Jason Hughes exploited vulnerabilities in Tesla's central server to gain remote command over the fleet, demonstrating this by activating a car’s Summon feature from a distance. Additionally, in 2016, researchers managed to remotely hack into a Tesla Model S and control its brakes via the CAN bus system. These breaches were identified by ethical hackers who responsibly disclosed them to Tesla, leading to prompt remediation of the vulnerabilities. Since these incidents, Tesla has significantly bolstered its cybersecurity measures, including increasing bug bounty rewards and expanding its security team. Despite these improvements, Moravy's testimony, which aimed at influencing federal autonomous vehicle regulations, may have lacked accuracy regarding Tesla’s historical security challenges.
Keywords: #phi4, CAN bus, Congress, Controller Area Network (CAN bus), Mothership, Pwn2Own, Tesla, VIN, autonomous, bug bounty, control, cybersecurity, federal framework, fleet, hacker, patch, security researchers, testimony, testimony Keywords: Tesla, vehicles, vulnerabilities
electrek.co 10 days ago
|
1930.
HN
In the AI age, 'slow and steady' doesn't win
In the current landscape dominated by artificial intelligence, tech companies are navigating the dual challenge of transforming their industries while preserving existing business models. Despite achieving a record $50 billion in cloud revenue, Microsoft faced Wall Street's dissatisfaction due to its slow integration of AI into essential services like Office 365, resulting in a significant stock decline. In contrast, Meta announced an increase in AI infrastructure spending to $135 billion, which unexpectedly led to a 10% rise in its stock value, even though it lacked a clear path to profitability. Meanwhile, Tesla, under Elon Musk's leadership, is aggressively pivoting towards the future by reallocating resources from traditional car manufacturing to humanoid robots and AI development. This shift underscores Musk's belief that software represents the true value in vehicles, as opposed to conventional car production, which he views as increasingly unsustainable. Although this strategy led to a drop in Tesla's stock due to perceived risks, it starkly contrasts with the more cautious approaches of Microsoft and Meta. These differing strategies highlight an industry-wide dilemma: whether to adapt swiftly to technological advancements or risk becoming obsolete.
Keywords: #phi4, AI, AI bubble, Bing chat, Elon Musk, Meta, Microsoft, Model S, Model X, Office 365, Tesla, Wall Street, autonomous cars, business preservation, cloud revenue, competition, humanoid robots, industry transformation, robotics company, shareholders, tech companies, xAI
www.semafor.com 10 days ago
|
2044.
HN
Waymo Gets Grilled by Lawmakers over Chinese Cars and Overseas Workers
During a Senate hearing on self-driving cars, Waymo was scrutinized for its use of Chinese vehicles and offshore workers, with lawmakers questioning whether reliance on foreign technology could undermine U.S. regulations and job creation. Senators criticized Waymo's partnership with Geely's subsidiary Zeekr to produce robotaxis, while Waymo's chief safety officer, Mauricio Peña, defended the collaboration by asserting that these vehicles have no connectivity features linked to China and are assembled in the U.S., highlighting the advantages of a global supply chain for scaling operations. Concerns were also raised about Waymo employing remote human operators from countries like the Philippines, with Senator Ed Markey suggesting this could lead to safety risks due to potential response delays during critical situations and result in job losses in the U.S. as autonomous technology advances.
Both Waymo and Tesla executives stressed the need for the U.S. to establish clear regulations to compete with China's rapid advancements in autonomous vehicle (AV) technology, warning that without federal action, Chinese companies could set global standards for AVs. They called for modernizing outdated vehicle regulations to foster innovation and maintain leadership in this sector. Industry leaders have consistently noted China's significant lead in the electric vehicle market, highlighting the competitive challenge faced by U.S. automakers.
Keywords: #phi4, AV technology, Chinese vehicles, EV market, Geely, Ojai, Tesla, US regulations, Waymo, Zeekr, autonomous vehicles, connectivity, global supply chain, human operators, import restrictions, innovation, lawmakers, national framework, offshore workers, robotaxi, safety issue
www.businessinsider.com 11 days ago
|
2058.
HN
Waymo exec admits remote operators in Philippines help guide US robotaxis
Waymo's Chief Safety Officer, Mauricio Peña, revealed that some remote operators aiding their autonomous vehicles are based in the Philippines, providing guidance during complex situations without controlling the cars. This disclosure prompted lawmakers to express concerns about cybersecurity risks and labor implications, given these roles are overseas while local driving jobs face displacement due to advancing technology. During a Senate hearing involving Waymo and Tesla executives, discussions centered on the safety of autonomous systems following recent incidents with self-driving vehicles. Tesla's Vice President highlighted their security measures designed to prevent external control over their cars, addressing concerns about potential vulnerabilities.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating an incident where a Waymo vehicle struck a child in Santa Monica, underscoring ongoing scrutiny of autonomous technology. Waymo contends that its system mitigates impact severity compared to human drivers. Concurrently, Congress is considering legislation for consistent federal safety regulations as self-driving vehicles become increasingly common across U.S. cities.
Keywords: #phi4, Chief Safety Officer, NHTSA, Philippines, Santa Monica accident, Tesla, Waymo, autonomous vehicles, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, dynamic driving tasks, labor implications, remote operators, robotaxis, safety regulations
eletric-vehicles.com 12 days ago
https://waymo.com/blog/2024/05/fleet-response 11 days ago
https://www.c-span.org/program/senate-committee/te 11 days ago
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T0WtBFEfAyo 11 days ago
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=elpQPbJXpfY 11 days ago
|
2060.
HN
Latest Epstein files release rattles Silicon Valley
The recent release of Jeffrey Epstein's files by the Justice Department has exposed his extensive connections with influential figures in Silicon Valley, sparking significant controversy. The documents reveal that Epstein maintained contact with at least 20 tech executives, investors, and researchers, including notable CEOs like Elon Musk and Reid Hoffman. These communications spanned topics such as startup investments, social gatherings, and personal matters.
The disclosure has led to public disputes between Musk and Hoffman on social media, each accusing the other of poor judgment in their associations with Epstein. Although neither is accused of wrongdoing, the documents have brought to light previously undisclosed or underreported interactions. For example, Musk's emails contradict his earlier claims about refusing invitations to Epstein’s island, while Hoffman admitted visiting for fundraising related to MIT.
The files also indicate that Epstein had connections with other tech figures like Bill Gates and Peter Thiel, though neither has been accused of misconduct. Additionally, the documents reveal Epstein's investment in Coinbase and interactions with executives from companies such as Microsoft, Apple, Google, and Facebook.
These revelations have prompted those named to address public criticism or avoid further scrutiny, raising questions about their associations with Epstein and potential repercussions within the tech industry.
Keywords: #phi4, Amazon, Apple, Bill Gates, Bitcoin, Caribbean island, Coinbase, Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell, Google, Hoffman, Jeff Bezos, Jeff Bezos Keywords: Epstein, Jeffrey Epstein, Larry Page, LinkedIn, MIT Media Lab, Mark Zuckerberg, Melinda French Gates, Meta, Microsoft, Musk, New York, OJ Simpson, Paradigm, PayPal, Peter Thiel, Sergey Brin, Silicon Valley, Tesla, Tim Cook, Windows, cryptocurrency, documents, emails, fundraising, investors, meetings, relationships, scandal, sex offender, social media, tech executives
www.nbcnews.com 12 days ago
|
2124.
HN
Canada Warms Up to EVs from China
Canada has agreed to cut import duties on a limited number of Chinese electric vehicles as part of a broader economic deal that also lowered canola tariffs, reducing the tariff from 100 % to 6.1 % but capping imports at 49,000 vehicles per year—about 3 % of Canada’s annual car sales—with a 2030 requirement that 50 % of imported Chinese EVs have MSRPs below roughly $26 000 (≈$35 000 CAD); this follows existing imports of Chinese-made Teslas, Volvos, Polsters and a few non‑EV models, while domestic automakers and politicians, including GM’s CEO, warn that the policy could trigger a “slippery slope” of increased Chinese competition, potentially destabilising North American auto manufacturing, encouraging Chinese firms to establish Canadian factories, yet it is expected to mainly benefit established players such as Tesla, Volvo, and Toyota’s Woodstock plant, with Canadian farmers in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba likely continuing to buy domestic pickups to support local production.
Keywords: #gpt-oss:20b, Canada, China, EVs, Honda Fit, Lincoln Nautilus, MSRPs, Manufacturing, Polestar, Tesla, Trade, Volvo, price caps, tariffs, vehicles
www.caranddriver.com 12 days ago
|
2157.
HN
When Bad UI Design Kills: China Bans Flush Car Door Handles
China has banned flush, electronically‑powered car door handles—first popularized by Tesla’s Model S and widely adopted—after concerns that they can lose power during crashes or battery failures, with Tesla’s design hiding mechanical overrides in awkward locations that impede occupants from opening doors if power is lost. The regulation now requires all door handles to have a minimum grippable area of 60 mm × 20 mm × 25 mm and to be operable without power, while interior manual releases must be visible, permanently signed, and located within 300 mm of the door edge. The law follows fatal incidents involving Xiaomi SU7s that burst into flames, a Cybertruck in California where teens burned inside due to hidden releases, and a Tesla Model X in Texas that caused a drowning because responders couldn’t open the doors, underscoring the dangers of hidden or electrically dependent door mechanisms; manufacturers must comply by January 1, 2027.
Keywords: #gpt-oss:20b, Bad UI, Battery, Crash, Cybertruck, Door Handles, First Responders, Flush Car, Manual Releases, Mechanical Overrides, Model S, Model X, Model Y, Tesla
www.core77.com 12 days ago
|
2186.
HN
BMW Commits to Subscriptions Even After Heated Seat Debacle
BMW continues to prioritize a subscription-based model for post-purchase features, even in the face of consumer backlash against its initial heated seat subscription plan, which it has since abandoned. The company remains steadfast in promoting its ConnectedDrive platform, which allows customers to access optional, retroactive upgrades through subscription services. Unlike Tesla, which has fully embraced a subscription-based approach for digital features, BMW offers a hybrid model that includes both one-time purchases and subscriptions, aiming to provide customers with greater flexibility and long-term value. This strategy aligns with a broader industry trend, as subscription-based services for semi-autonomous driving features and infotainment have become increasingly common, with companies such as GM's OnStar already utilizing similar models. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, subscriptions are expected to play a central role in how automakers deliver advanced technology and services to consumers.
Keywords: #qwen3:14b, BMW, ConnectedDrive, EVs, FSD, OnStar, Tesla, add-ons, aftersales, cellular service, concierge services, digital offerings, driving software, heated seats, post-purchase upgrades, recurring fee, revenue model, semi-autonomous, software upgrades, subscriptions, trial period
www.thedrive.com 12 days ago
https://www.reuters.com/world/india/mercedes-india 12 days ago
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-01-08 12 days ago
https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/art 12 days ago
https://www.reuters.com/world/china/china-russia-d 12 days ago
https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/ 12 days ago
https://www.reuters.com/world/china/russias-shoigu 12 days ago
https://fddi.fudan.edu.cn/_t2515/57/f8/c21257 12 days ago
https://www.ft.com/content/5d9f1a02-a60b-418f-8c9b-b711 12 days ago
https://www.ft.com/content/eb677cb3-f86c-42de-b819-277b 12 days ago
https://www.ft.com/content/101ced1f-e03b-4353-8b1a-401d 12 days ago
https://www.ft.com/content/a7190e3e-8656-401e-8645-f342 12 days ago
https://www.reuters.com/world/china/chinas-saic-cu 12 days ago
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercosur 12 days ago
https://www.politico.eu/article/europe-farmer-protest-r 12 days ago
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=46856383 12 days ago
https://www.lemonde.fr/economie/article/2026/ 12 days ago
|
2269.
HN
Norway only sold 98 diesel cars and 7 gasoline-powered cars in January
Norway’s recent car‑sales data reveal an overwhelming dominance of electric vehicles, with diesel and gasoline sales remaining negligible—98 diesel and 7 gasoline cars in January—yet the transition to a fully electric fleet remains unimpeded by the government’s recent easing of incentives on high‑priced EVs; record December sales and sustained Tesla purchases demonstrate that EV demand has not fallen, keeping market share above 94 % even after the slight dip from 95.8 % in January 2025. The marginal rise in diesel share is a statistical artifact of an overall contraction in new vehicle sales rather than a surge in diesel units, while fossil‑fuel sales, largely from short‑term rentals for tourists, are too small to justify continued investment in associated infrastructure. The Jan‑2026 dip in total new-vehicle registrations reflects a postponed buying wave that surged in December, not a shift back to combustion engines, underscoring the continued viability of Norway’s EV sweep and suggesting a sustainable model for other nations—an effect illustrated by the accompanying pitch for solar‑powered EV charging.
Keywords: #gpt-oss:20b-cloud, 2025, 2026, EV, Norway, Tesla, auto industry, cars, diesel, electrification, gasoline, hybrids, incentives, market share, sales, subsidies
electrek.co 13 days ago
https://robbieandrew.github.io/EV/ 13 days ago
|
2342.
HN
BMW Commits to Subscriptions Even After Heated Seat Debacle
BMW has been rebounding from the heated‑seat subscription controversy by reaffirming its commitment to a “features‑as‑a‑service” strategy, promising its ConnectedDrive platform will still offer post‑purchase upgrades and add‑on services that allow owners to retrofit functionality days after the initial sale; this approach is positioned as a central pillar of the company’s global aftersales model, intended to provide continual comfort and flexibility to customers. Tesla, meanwhile, has moved from a mix of one‑time and subscription‑based software upgrades to a heavier reliance on subscription models. Both automakers lean on a recurring‑fee structure for software, particularly data packages, because consumers are accustomed to such add‑ons; the practice, mirrored by semi‑autonomous driving software, OnStar, and various infotainment and concierge apps that have long existed, remains deeply entrenched in the industry and is expected to persist.
Keywords: #gpt-oss:20b-cloud, Add-ons, BMW, Cellular Service, Concierge, ConnectedDrive, Data Package, EV, FSD, Infotainment, OnStar, Recurring Fee, Roadside Assistance, Semi-Autonomous, Software, Subscription, Tesla, Upgrade
www.thedrive.com 13 days ago
|
2480.
HN
China bans hidden car door handles
China’s 2027 mandate will require all cars sold in the country to have mechanically operable door handles that can open from either side, a response to incidents where Teslas and other manufacturers’ electrically powered “hidden” handles failed after crashes or battery fires—an issue that has been linked to at least 15 deaths, including a fatal Xiaomi EV crash and cases where the Tesla Model Y’s doors could not be opened externally, prompting NHTSA investigations into Tesla, Dodge, Ford, Fisker, and interior release complaints on the Model 3. The new safety rules demand exterior handles remain functional after disasters, remain clearly visible and unobstructed, and require interior mechanical releases that are not hidden by other parts, compelling global automakers to redesign vehicles for the Chinese market; meanwhile, U.S. regulations have not been affected, though ongoing NHTSA probes and a proposed House bill pressure U.S. manufacturers to implement fail‑safe manual releases for emergency access, while Chinese vehicles face heavy tariffs and technology bans that largely limit their entry into the U.S. market.
Keywords: #gpt-oss:20b-cloud, China, NHTSA, Tesla, automakers, battery, car doors, door handles, fire, global, regulation, safety, tariffs
text.npr.org 14 days ago
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=46857456 14 days ago
|
2493.
HN
Even after cutting EV incentives, Norway only sold 98 diesel cars in January
Norway’s electric-vehicle market has remained robust and even grew following the 2025 subsidy cut; lower-priced models (< 300 k NOK) kept incentives, resulting in record December sales that carried into a strong January, with EVs now accounting for 100 % of new car sales. EV dominance continued with market shares above 95 % (94 % in Jan 2026, 97 % in Dec 2025) and 2,084 units sold in Jan 2026, while fossil‑fuel sales stayed minimal (98 diesel, 29 hybrids, 7 petrol); the apparent rise in diesel share (1.5 % to 4.4 %) is an artefact of overall sales dips and the shift of EV purchases into December’s incentive period, not an increase in diesel demand. The ~10,000 vehicles “missing” from January’s 2,218 total were largely bought in December and likely shifted to February, indicating a continued decline in fossil‑fuel sales. EVs have become the standard, rendering the small diesel market a negligible concern, and the maintenance of a fossil‑fuel fleet and associated infrastructure is no longer justified. Norway’s experience demonstrates that once electrification takes root, its advantages persist even after subsidies wane, offering a model for other countries, while solar installers on EnergySage can help residents affordably install home charging solutions.
Keywords: #gpt-oss:20b-cloud, December, EV, January, Norway, Tesla, auto, diesel, electric vehicle, exemptions, hybrids, incentives, market share, parking, sales, tax
electrek.co 14 days ago
|
2576.
HN
China to ban hidden door handles on cars starting in 2027
China will prohibit hidden, retractable door handles on all vehicles sold in the country—except for tailgates—starting January 1, 2027, mandating mechanical door releases in response to fatal accidents involving failed electronic doors. Current model approvals have a two‑year window until January 1, 2029 to redesign for compliance, affecting cars such as the Tesla Model 3 and Y, the BMW iX3, and numerous Chinese electric vehicles. The regulation, issued by China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, classifies retractable handles as design/aerodynamic features and may prompt similar measures in other markets, while the U.S. NHTSA has opened an investigation into Tesla door‑handle failures.
Keywords: #gpt-oss:20b-cloud, BMW, China, EV models, Tesla, carmakers, design changes, electric vehicles, electronic doors, fatal EV accidents, hidden door, mechanical release, regulations, safety concerns, tailgate
apnews.com 14 days ago
|
2602.
HN
China bans hidden car door handles, which can trap people after crashes
China will mandate that all vehicles sold after 2027 must feature doors capable of being opened mechanically from both the interior and exterior, prohibiting “hidden” electric handles that can fail in crashes; the decision follows Bloomberg investigations and NHTSA inquiries into Tesla Model Y and other cars whose retractable door‑handle systems have trapped occupants, spurring Tesla’s chief designer to announce a redesign; the new rule, part of a broader Chinese Ministry ruling that all vehicles must remain operable after an accident, requires visible, unobstructed manual releases on both sides of the door and applies to all automakers selling in China, though it will not affect U.S. offerings; alongside the regulation, the U.S. NHTSA has opened a probe into similar Tesla Model 3 interior releases that have proved difficult to reach and linked to fatalities, and Congress has introduced legislation mandating fail‑safe manual releases and external rescue points, adding to the growing safety scrutiny of electronic or retractable door‑handle designs.
Keywords: #gpt-oss:20b-cloud, Bloomberg, China, EV, Model 3, NHTSA, Tesla, automakers, battery, crash, door, legislation, regulation, safety, tariffs
www.npr.org 14 days ago
|
2603.
HN
The SpaceX mega merger boosts the Musk trade
SpaceX’s acquisition of Elon Musk’s AI start‑up xAI, valuing the combined entities at $1.25 trillion, deepens the Musk trade and positions SpaceX as a diversified investment vehicle ahead of a likely IPO. While some shareholders criticize the merger as self‑dealing—using a profitable firm to absorb an unprofitable AI venture—others view it as an opportunity to leverage Musk’s broad vision from rockets to orbital data centers and AI, aligning with the private sector’s growing appetite for AI investment. Musk plans to take xAI public next, arguing that first‑mover advantage, like OpenAI’s ChatGPT, will generate capital and retail interest before rivals; he promotes space‑based data centers over terrestrial ones, framing the enterprise in a sci‑fi narrative bolstered by details of a Falcon 9 launch that underscore the space angle.
Keywords: #gpt-oss:20b-cloud, AI, Anthropic, ChatGPT, Falcon 9, IPO, Musk, OpenAI, SpaceX, Tesla, Wall Street, ambiguous, boosts, capital, company, data centers, diversified, dynamic, expensive, first mover, going public, investment, investor, mega, merger, orbital, piggy bank, plans, public, shareholders, strategy, trade, trillion, unprofitable, valuation, xAI
finance.yahoo.com 14 days ago
|
