Tesla's Update on February 25: Introduction of New Model Y, Carbon Dioxide Initiatives, Hardware 4 Recall, Robotics Plans, Musk's Meeting with Weidel
Tesla Model Y Long-Wheelbase Launch and Autopilot Recall Updates
The electric vehicle market is abuzz with excitement as Tesla prepares to launch the Model Y Long-Wheelbase (Model Y L) in China this September, with plans to roll it out to Western markets soon. This new variant, boasting an extended wheelbase and six-seat configuration, is set to provide families with enhanced passenger space [1][3][5].
The Model Y L has already been spotted testing in China and Europe, signalling its upcoming availability in Western markets, including Germany near the Nürburgring race track. Production is expected to take place not only at Tesla’s Shanghai Gigafactory but also potentially at its factories in Germany (Giga Berlin), Fremont, and Texas.
Regarding the Autopilot computer recall, a significant event occurred in February 2023 when the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recalled 362,758 vehicles equipped with Full Self-Driving (FSD) Beta due to safety concerns. Tesla halted new participants for FSD Beta and released patched software versions to address these issues, including FSD Beta v11.3.1 in March 2023. The NHTSA requested more details from Tesla in July 2023 about changes made, amid reports of crashes and one fatality linked to FSD Beta use over the period from August 2022 to August 2023. Elon Musk also demonstrated a new version (FSD v12) with machine learning improvements in August 2023. However, no more recent recall actions or updates specific to the Autopilot computer hardware have been mentioned in 2025 sources, suggesting that the original recall and software fixes are the latest major developments in this area [4].
The Model Y, which still retains a blinker lever on the left, has seen some updates in its interior. It now offers improved seats and noise insulation, as well as a central screen for rear passengers, similar to the Model 3. The Model Y will also utilize the fourth-generation hardware, AI4.1, but it appears to be experiencing issues, leading to a recall affecting Model S, Model X, Model 3, and Model Y vehicles.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has expressed optimism about the future of autonomy, predicting that it will generate substantial revenue for the company. He also believes that humanoid robots, such as the planned Optimus, could be the most important product in human history, enabling unlimited economic growth.
In Europe, Tesla could expect more than 1 billion euros in revenue from CO2 deals in 2025, as stricter regulations for fleet consumption apply from this year. This potential revenue stream comes as several competitors, including Stellantis, Toyota, Ford, Mazda, Subaru, and potentially Volkswagen, consider forming a CO2 pool with Tesla for 2025 in the EU to avoid fines but have to pay Tesla for it.
Recently, Elon Musk had a conversation with AfD's chancellor candidate Alice Weidel on the social media platform X, which was criticized by German politicians and media. Despite this controversy, Musk reinforced his recommendation for Weidel's party during the conversation.
In a separate development, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang mentioned Tesla as a leader in autonomous driving and humanoid robots. With Tesla's continued focus on innovation and advancement, it's clear that the company remains at the forefront of the electric vehicle and autonomous driving industries.
[1] Tesla Model Y Long-Range now offers 719 km range in Asia
[2] Tesla Model Y Recall: Everything You Need to Know
[3] Tesla Model Y Long-Range: Will it be available in Europe?
[4] Tesla Model Y vs Model 3: What's the Difference?
[5] Tesla Model Y Long-Range: How Many Miles Can It Go?
- The electric vehicle industry is eagerly anticipating Tesla's launch of the Model Y Long-Wheelbase (Model Y L) in China and its subsequent rollout in other markets, as this variant offers an extended wheelbase and enhanced passenger space, appealing to businesses that prioritize family transportation.
- The automotive and technology sectors continue to intersect, with Tesla's plans to produce the Model Y L not only at its Shanghai Gigafactory, but also potentially at its factories in Germany, Fremont, and Texas.
- The finance world and politics are closely watching the potential revenue streams for Tesla in Europe, where the company could earn over 1 billion euros from CO2 deals due to stricter regulations and fleet consumption applications.
- The general-news field and the politics of technology are drawing attention to the conversations between Tesla CEO Elon Musk and political figures, such as his discussion with AfD's chancellor candidate Alice Weidel on the social media platform X, influencing policies and public perceptions in the industry.
- Meanwhile, the transportation and technology industry are recognizing Tesla's leadership in autonomous driving and humanoid robots, such as the planned Optimus, with Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang explicitly mentioning Tesla as a front-runner in these fields, signaling a promising future for both sectors.
