Episode 431: New Paint Color, New Seats, and the Cybertruck’s New ‘Crab Walk’
Nov 5, 2023
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Topics discussed include Tesla's new Stealth Gray paint color, seat-related news for the Model 3 Ludicrous, and the Cybertruck's 'crab walk'. Comparisons of Tesla's paint colors, Subaru's adoption of the North American charging standard, extended warranty coverage, the Cybertruck's impact on Tesla, aftermarket accessories, solar installation, and car care are also discussed.
Tesla introduces a new stealth-gray paint color for the Model S and X in North America.
Tesla increases the price of the solid black paint option for Model 3 and Model Y by $500.
Subaru pledges to adopt the North American charging standard for its electric vehicles.
Deep dives
Tesla unveils new stealth-gray paint color for Model S and X
Tesla has introduced a new stealth-gray paint color for the Model S and X in North America. The stealth-gray paint color is similar to the midnight silver metallic color that it is replacing. Customers are encouraged to check the render on the Tesla Design Studio to see the new color for themselves.
Solid black paint color now $500 more expensive for Model 3 and Model Y
Tesla has increased the price of the solid black paint color for the Model 3 and Model Y by $500. Solid black is now priced at $2,000, making it the most expensive paint option for these models. The price increase for the solid black color may be an effort by Tesla to maximize profits on this particular option.
Subaru commits to using the North American charging standard
Subaru has pledged to adopt the North American charging standard for its electric vehicles. Starting in 2025, Subaru EV owners will be provided with a CCS to NACS adapter, and future Subaru EV models will have the NACS charge port integrated directly. Subaru is joining other major automakers in adopting the North American charging standard.
Electric Vehicle Registrations: Model 3, Chevy Bolt, and Model Y Lead the Pack
The podcast episode discusses electric vehicle registrations and reveals that the Model 3, Chevy Bolt, and Model Y have the highest number of registered units. It also highlights that the Chevy Bolt has a significant share of EV registrations for government fleets. The episode emphasizes that while Tesla has focused on private sector sales, the simple and affordable nature of the Chevy Bolt makes it more suitable for government fleet use. However, the episode notes that Tesla's upcoming Generation 3 car, which will be produced in Gigafactory Berlin, may change this dynamic in the future.
Panasonic Reducing Domestic EV Battery Production
The podcast episode reports on Panasonic's announcement to decrease domestic production of electric vehicle batteries due to slower-than-expected sales for specific Tesla models. The episode clarifies that Panasonic plans to cut Japanese EV battery production by up to 60% and that they have already stopped production on some EV battery lines to address existing stockpiles. It also mentions that Panasonic plans to explore other potential customers beyond the auto industry as they navigate this period of reduced production.
Tesla's Stealth Gray paint color introduced at Giga Shanghai for the Highland Model 3 has made it to the United States, but only on the Model S and X for now. Plus: speaking of Highland, the Model 3 Ludicrous is one of a couple of Teslas that has some seat-related news this week, the Cybertruck is spotted “crab-walking,” and more!
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Go to xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla, and don’t forget to use the discount code “Lightning” for $100 off your purchase.
P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at https://everyamp.com/RTL/ (don't forget the coupon code RTL). Get the best Dashcam/Sentry Mode microSD-based USB drive for your Tesla at www.puretesla.com/rtl and download NetSuite’s popular KPI Checklist at www.netsuite.com/lightning.
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