Ride the Lightning: Tesla and EV Podcast Episode 542: Six-Seat Model Y L Seems One Step Closer to Going Global
Dec 21, 2025
A new six-seat Model Y L is poised for a global rollout, showcasing Tesla's ambitions in the luxury space. The Cybertruck has earned top safety ratings, despite some delays with PowerShare integration. In more sobering news, Ford has discontinued the F-150 Lightning while refocusing its EV strategy. Meanwhile, a Tesla patent hints at exciting Starlink integration, which could transform connectivity for rural areas. Listeners engage with discussions on FSD licensing for RVs and share personal Tesla experiences from around the globe.
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Austin Robotaxis Running Driverless Tests
- Ryan notes fully driverless Model Y robotaxis began final validation in Austin with no occupants.
- He calls this 'RoboTaxi 1.0' and expects rollout to other markets months later.
California DMV Flags Misleading Terms
- The California DMV ruled Tesla's use of 'Autopilot' and 'Full Self-Driving' misleading but stayed license suspensions to allow remediation.
- Ryan finds the decision puzzling and suggests small labeling changes could resolve it.
Rename Autopilot To Clarify Supervision
- Ryan suggests Tesla could simply add "(Supervised)" to the Autopilot name to satisfy regulators.
- He argues that 'Autopilot (Supervised)' would clearly communicate driver responsibility while keeping branding.