Hey everybody, welcome back to the Elon Musk Podcast.
This is a show where we discuss the critical Crossroads, The Shape, SpaceX, Tesla X, The Boring Company, and Neuralink, and I'm your host, Will Walden. Tesla has adjusted the range estimates for several of its EV models in the United States, notably affecting the Model Y, the Model S, and the Model X. Now these changes include a reduction in the estimated range for various trims, with some models experiencing a decrease of up to 6%. Now, these modifications have
not been applied to Tesla's listings in the UK or the EU. Now the most significant change is observed in the Model YS performance trim, which now shows an estimated range of 285 miles, a decrease from the previous 303 miles. Similarly, the Model Y long range now stands at 310 miles, down from 330 now. The Model X's Plaid variant has seen a reduction from 333 miles to 326. Additionally, the Model S Plaid with 19 inch wheels now has a range estimate of 359 miles, down from 396 now.
Tesla has not publicly explained the reason for these lowered range estimations. However, internal documentation reviewed by Dr. Tesla suggests that the changes are due to two factors, enhancements in comfort and functionality. They require more energy and the implementation of revised EPA testing requirements that have led to higher consumption and slightly reduced overall range. Now, Tesla has faced credit system in the past for overstating its range figures.
In 2020, the EPA disputed Elon Musk's claim of 400 mile range for the Tesla Model S long range. Moreover, in October of last year, the Department of Justice began investigating Tesla over reports that some of its mileage figures were intentionally inflated alongside the range updates. Tesla introduced 2 new color options for the Model Y All Electric crossover.
The colors Stealth Gray and Ultra Red are not new to Tesla's lineup, but are newly available for the Model Y Stealth Gray is offered at no additional cost, while Ultra Red carries a $2000 premium. Stealth Gray was first introduced on the Model S in the Model X in October of 2023, with Ultra Red following in March of the same year.
In China, Ultra Red is known as Flame Red, and this marks the first time that Tesla has introduced a new color for the Model Y in the United States since its launch in Europe. Tesla offers exclusive colors for the Model Y, including Midnight Cherry Red and Quicksilver, available only for vehicles built at Gigafactory Berlin. In addition to the new colors, Tesla has also updated range estimates for the model wise long range and performance
configurations. The long range is now rated at 310 miles and decrease of 20 miles and the performance is rated at 285 miles, down from 303. These changes have been applied to three Tesla models in the US with a Model 3 retaining its original 5 color options for the time being. Now we've revision in the EP as method for calculating electric vehicle range or EV range has resulted in most Tesla models appearing less efficient.
These changes coincide with Tesla's updates in its 2024 model lineup, which include the new Model Y colors and updates to steering wheels and yokes for the Model S and the Model X. And the Tesla community was further stirred up by the cybertruck's lower than expected range in a highway range test by
out of spec studios. This occurred simultaneously with the EPA's changes to EV range testing procedures and these procedural changes in the 2024 model year updates LED some to speculate that the range reduction was due to the latter. However, the actual change lies in how the range is now calculated. EPA has mandated that EV manufacturers test acceleration and ride height modes in both
best and worst case scenarios. This new approach is intended to better reflect real world range performance and applies to vehicles tested for the 2024 model year onwards. Now for Tesla buyers in 2024, this means that the EPA range estimates listed on Tesla's website are now more reflective of actual use. Notably, the Model Y all-wheel drive and the Model Y performance have seen range reductions of about 20 plus miles, now rated at 310 and 285
miles respectively. The Model S Plaids range is also decreased depending on the wheel option. While the Model X was less impacted. The Model 3 remains unaffected by these changes as Tesla has not tested the 2024 model year version in. The anticipated refresh of the Model 3, known as the Highland, is likely to undergo these tests when it begins sales. Tesla has also removed the creep and roll stopping modes from the 2024 Model Y. Leaving hold is the only option
now. This change is expected to improve efficiency by maximizing regenerative braking. Hold Mode, popular among Tesla drivers, aligns with the one pedal driving experience now. Additionally, Tesla has reduced the top speed of the Model SLR to 130 mph from 155 mph, another moved at enhancing rated efficiency.
Now the company's 2024 Model Year lineup includes new color offerings for the Y, with Stealth Gray now available for free and Midnight Silver Metallic Ultra Red, priced at $2000 is now the most expensive paint option for the Model Y, taking over from the discontinued Multi Coat Red. Now, this change aligns with Tesla's strategy of constantly refreshing its vehicle offerings and options. Lastly, the Model S and the Model X are set to receive new
steering wheels and yokes. A significant update is the mechanically operated horn activated by pressing the center hub, which replaces the capacitive button on a steering wheel or yoke used previously. These range adjustments and other updates reflect Tesla's ongoing efforts to align its vehicle offerings with regulatory changes and consumer
preferences. Now, while some consumers may be disappointed by the reduced range estimates, these changes are part of Tesla's strategy to provide more accurate and realistic information about its vehicle's performances. Hey, thank you so much for listening today. I really do appreciate your support. If you could take a second and hit the subscribe or the follow button on whatever podcast platform that you're listening on right now, I greatly appreciate it.
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