Episode 498: Jay Leno Gets New Details on the New Model Y
Feb 16, 2025
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Join Jay Leno as he chats with Tesla's top designer about the refreshed Model Y, featuring sleek design updates and enhanced aerodynamics. Discover the exciting tech behind the new V4 superchargers and what it means for charging convenience. Learn about the Cybertruck's off-road capabilities and potential features. Tesla's unique drive-in diner concept sparks fascinating ideas. Plus, hear about community engagement initiatives and listener insights that celebrate the growing electric vehicle movement.
The refreshed Model Y features enhanced aerodynamics and safety improvements, achieving a low drag coefficient of 0.22 and a 327-mile EPA-rated range.
Tesla's upcoming 500 kilowatt V4 superchargers aim to improve long-distance travel efficiency, with the first pilot stations expected by the third quarter.
Recent changes in the Model Y, including a turn signal stock and low emissivity glass, showcase Tesla's responsiveness to consumer feedback and comfort needs.
Deep dives
Highlights of the New Model Y
The new Model Y has been enhanced significantly, showcasing a refreshed design and performance upgrades that excite Tesla enthusiasts. For example, it features a sleek front end that improves aerodynamics, achieving a coefficient of drag as low as 0.22 with specific wheel configurations. This design not only enhances efficiency but also contributes to safety by allowing for better pedestrian impacts in the case of an accident. With an EPA-rated range of 327 miles on the long-range all-wheel drive version, it surpasses the previous model by approximately 16 miles.
Advancements in Tesla Supercharging
Significant developments have been made regarding Tesla's upcoming 500 kilowatt V4 superchargers, which are expected to be more cost-effective than current installations. With engineering teams reportedly working overtime, the first pilot stations are anticipated to be operational by the third quarter of the year, aiming to achieve a cost of under $40,000 per stall. Only the Cybertruck will be able to utilize the full 500-kilowatt peak charging rate at launch, but this fast charging capability will benefit larger vehicles in the future as well. This progress marks a pivotal step in making long-distance travel more efficient for Tesla owners.
Innovations in the Cybertruck's Off-Road Armor
Tesla's Cybertruck will soon receive new off-road armor designed for enhanced durability and performance in rugged environments. Previously scheduled for release at the end of the year, updates provide hope that this feature will be available within the next few weeks. The lead engineer for the Cybertruck mentioned that it was tested in the rocky terrain of Johnson Valley, indicating a commitment to ensuring its robustness. This enhancement promises not only more rugged capabilities but also caters to off-road enthusiasts who require heightened vehicle resilience.
Enhancements in Vehicle Safety and Features
A key improvement in the new Model Y involves the addition of a turn signal stock, which was reintroduced based on customer feedback emphasizing the need for tactile controls. This change simplifies vehicle operation, allowing drivers to use the turn signal without looking away from the road. In terms of technology, the Model Y includes low emissivity glass in its roof, which helps reject excess heat, increasing cabin comfort during hot weather. These features reflect Tesla's responsiveness to consumer preferences while pushing forward innovations that enhance safety.
Tesla's Market Position and Future Outlook
Despite maintaining a strong presence in California's electric vehicle market, Tesla has experienced a decline in sales and market share, attributed to growing competition in the EV sector. In 2024, Tesla's vehicle registrations fell by 11.6%, with a notable drop in Model 3 sales, while the Model Y continues to be the best-selling vehicle in the state. The increase in EV registrations overall, excluding Tesla, highlights a burgeoning consumer preference for electric vehicles. Analysts anticipate that as Tesla introduces new models and refreshes existing ones, there might be potential for a rebound in market share in the coming years.
Comedian and world-renowned car enthusiast Jay Leno – perhaps Tesla’s biggest celebrity fan – welcomed Tesla Chief Designer Franz von Holzhausen and VP of Engineering Lars Moravy to his garage this week to show off the new Model Y, and we learned a lot of fun things about the refreshed vehicle in the process. Plus: thieves who try to steal the copper out of Tesla Supercharging cables will soon be in for a not-so-fun surprise, an update on the timeline for the first 500kW Superchargers, and more!
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FOR FIRST-TIME TESLA BUYERS: The referral program is back and it's the best one in a while! You can get $2500 off of your Model 3 or $500 off your classic Model Y purchase (or $1000 off of Cybertruck, Model S, or Model X) by ordering through my referral link. Clicking this will take you to the Tesla website where you can order with the discount applied: https://ts.la/ryan73014
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