Ride the Lightning: Tesla and EV Podcast

The launch of the six-seat Model Y L in China introduces exciting new features and enhanced comfort. Innovations like extendable leg supports and ventilated captain's chairs are game-changers. The Model 3 sees a welcome interior update while luxury packages are introduced for the Model S, X, and Cybertruck. Discussions on the theft resistance of Tesla vehicles and insights into recent price changes add intrigue. Plus, listeners share valuable tips for purchasing and optimizing their Tesla experience!

A new patent hints that the next-gen Roadster may incorporate innovative technology to outshine other supercars. The updated Cybertruck is now equipped with a robust off-road armor package, attracting interest from the military for its durability. Exciting updates are on the way for Full Self-Driving software, while Tesla faces challenges related to its driver assistance technology. The shift to advanced camera technology is also in the spotlight, enhancing safety and user experience in Tesla vehicles.

This week, Tesla tipster Sawyer Merritt, a dedicated source for Tesla news on X, shares his journey into the Tesla community and the motivation behind his passion. He discusses the potential for Tesla to explore advertising, the significance of social media in the industry, and the evolving landscape of EVs. Sawyer also touches on the balance between maintaining integrity in content creation while connecting with the growing Tesla community. Prepare for insights on brand loyalty, competition, and the future of electric vehicles!

Lars Moravey, Tesla's Vice President of Engineering and a keynote speaker at the Tesla takeover event, discusses the newly spotted affordable Model Y, which could become Tesla's lowest-priced vehicle. He shares insights on its key features, including a lack of a glass roof and standard cloth seating. The conversation also touches on the exciting return of the Tesla Roadster and a revamped Robotaxi service. Listeners get a glimpse into Tesla's innovative advancements and strategic moves regarding AI technology and upcoming models.

Franz von Holzhausen, Tesla's Chief Designer, shares exciting insights following the Q2 earnings call. He discusses key developments like the launch of a robo-taxi service and highlights the demand for Tesla's energy products. Franz also dives into the challenges faced in global markets and how upcoming innovations will impact production efficiency. The conversation includes updates on the expanding supercharger network and ambitions for Full Self-Driving technology, setting the stage for Tesla's future growth.

Tesla has unveiled a six-seat Model Y variant in China, boasting an extended wheelbase and exciting new features. Speculation swirls around a potential re-reveal of the Tesla Roadster while the latest summer software update enhances AI capabilities. The hosts analyze EV sales trends, highlighting the Model Y's success and discussing the Cybertruck's performance hiccups. Upcoming events like TeslaCon Florida 2025 are previewed, alongside useful tips for Tesla owners, ensuring a vibrant community of enthusiasts.

Tesla’s latest gigantic Supercharging station is online and it’s incredibly impressive. I’ll tell you all about it. Plus: the new Model 3 scores a huge safety rating in Europe, Tesla’s European FSD Supervised push continues, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly or annual pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. INTERESTED IN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. 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 too!).  BONUS: If you're in or going to be in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, bring your car to Immaculate Reflections! They're offering a Summer special: $200 off of any paint correction service, $500 off of any ceramic coating package, and 15% off of any PPF package. And I realize that 15% may not sound like a lot, but on a front end PPF that’s a solid couple hundred bucks off, and if you go full-body PPF like me you’re saving over $1000 right there. Thank you Jeff for offering these generous discounts to my audience! Check out his website at irdetailing.com

Jose Garza, the proud owner of the first autonomously delivered Tesla, shares his remarkable experience of receiving a vehicle that drives to him without human intervention. He discusses the emotional impact of this historic delivery and his initial impressions of the car's technology. The conversation also touches on Tesla's competitive market positioning, updates on the EV tax credit, and how sales predictions might shift amidst new challenges. Plus, insights into Tesla's future vehicle developments keep the excitement alive for enthusiasts.

Kim Java, a Tesla community member and EV enthusiast running the YouTube channel 'It's Kim Java,' shares her firsthand experience with Tesla's autonomous ride-hailing service in Austin. She discusses her rides in the Robotaxi and contrasts it with Waymo’s offerings. Kim also touches on Tesla’s fully autonomous vehicle delivery milestone and the implications for future ride-sharing. The conversation includes insights on charging strategies and community concerns regarding Full Self-Driving features, shedding light on the evolving landscape of EV technology.

Tesla's robotaxi service has launched in Austin, marking a significant stride in autonomous driving. Excitement surrounds potential new Model Y variants and innovative configurations. Discussions include Texas lawmakers' call for regulatory measures, reflecting community concerns and hopes. A sneak peek at the AI5 FSD Computer hints at substantial tech advancements. Meanwhile, the competitive landscape of EVs heats up with Ferrari's electric ambitions and Tesla's challenge to improve existing software, rounding out a lively conversation on the future of transportation.