Battery holy grail too good to be true, NVIDIA open sources self-driving, Tesla Model Y 'Standard', and more
About this episode
A deep dive into the latest electric vehicle news, including Tesla's new Model Y Standard Long Range, which offers a more affordable option with impressive range. The episode also discusses NVIDIA's open-sourcing of AI for autonomous driving, raising questions about competition in the EV space. A major highlight is the announcement of a new solid-state battery by Donut Lab, claimed to be the first in production, prompting skepticism and excitement in the industry. The hosts also touch on Ford's autonomous driving plans and Volvo's upcoming EX-60 SUV specs.
In the Electrek Podcast, we discuss the most popular news in the world of sustainable transport and energy. In this week’s episode, we discuss a battery holy grail too good to be true, NVIDIA open sourcing self-driving, Tesla Model Y 'Standard' Long Range, and more.
The show is live every Friday at 4 p.m. ET on Electrek’s YouTube channel.
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Here are a few of the articles that we will discuss during the podcast:
- Tesla launches ‘Standard’ Model Y Long Range in Europe, and non-Long Range in Canada
- Tesla’s full 2025 data from Europe is in, and it is a total bloodbath
- Elon Musk’s xAI tells investors it will build AI for Tesla Optimus, amid breach of fiduciary duty lawsuit
- Nvidia unveils open-source AI for autonomous driving, ships in Mercedes-Benz CLA in Q1 2026
- Elon Musk wishes NVIDIA luck on self-driving, strangely silent on Hyundai’s humanoid robot
- Elon Musk moves goalpost again: admits Tesla needs 10 billion miles for ‘safe unsupervised’ FSD
- Verge unveils 370-mile electric motorcycle with solid state battery; sounds too good to be true?
- Ford goes all in on L3 eyes-off driving, starting with the $30,000 EV pickup
- Volvo’s new 400-mile EX60 is a specs monster
- Kia reveals three new GT EVs, two sporty electric SUVs and a hot hatch
Here’s the live stream for today’s episode starting at 4:00 p.m. ET (or the video after 5 p.m. ET:
https://www.youtube.com/live/7iQnyeOWDcY
Tesla Model Y
"...we have some new Model Y standard long range. That's a new thing now."
The Tesla Model Y is a type of electric car that looks like a small SUV. It's known for being efficient and having lots of high-tech features.
The Tesla Model Y is an all-electric compact SUV that shares many components with the Model 3 sedan. It offers impressive range, performance, and advanced technology features, making it a popular choice in the electric vehicle market.
autonomous driving
"Ford making its own autonomous driving announcement this week."
Autonomous driving means cars can drive themselves without needing a person to control them, using special technology and sensors.
Autonomous driving refers to the technology that allows vehicles to drive themselves without human intervention, using sensors and software.
Volvo EX-60
"Volvo teasing us with the EX-60 with some of the first specs, which as the says, they are monster specs already."
The Volvo EX-60 is a new electric SUV that Volvo is planning to release, and it has some impressive features.
The Volvo EX-60 is an upcoming electric SUV from Volvo, showcasing advanced technology and performance specifications.
electric vehicles (EVs)
"And then a bunch of new Kia GT EVs at the unveil."
Electric vehicles, or EVs, are cars that run on electricity instead of gasoline, which can be better for the environment and cheaper to operate.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are cars powered entirely by electricity, often offering lower emissions and lower operating costs compared to traditional gasoline vehicles.
rear-wheel drive
"before that, you have like short range, long range, rear wheel drive, all wheel drive."
Rear-wheel drive means that the back wheels of the car get the power from the engine. This setup can help with handling and is often used in sports cars.
Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is a drivetrain layout where the engine's power is sent to the rear wheels. This configuration can enhance handling and performance, especially in sports cars.
all-wheel drive
"before that, you have like short range, long range, rear wheel drive, all wheel drive."
All-wheel drive means that all four wheels of the car get power from the engine. This helps the car grip the road better, especially in bad weather.
All-wheel drive (AWD) is a drivetrain system that sends power to all four wheels of a vehicle, improving traction and stability in various driving conditions.
Tesla Model 3
"...the goal of that, as you can imagine, was to reduce the price of the Model Y and the Model 3, which also got the same treatment..."
The Tesla Model 3 is a smaller electric car from Tesla that is more affordable than the Model S. It's designed for everyday use and has good range and performance.
The Tesla Model 3 is a compact electric sedan designed for mass-market appeal, offering a balance of performance, range, and affordability compared to other electric vehicles.
kilowatt hours per 100 kilometers
"...657 kilometers of range WLTP, 12.7 kilometers, kilowatt hours per 100 kilometers."
This term tells you how much electricity a car uses to drive 100 kilometers. A lower number means the car is more efficient and uses less energy.
Kilowatt hours per 100 kilometers (kWh/100km) is a measure of energy consumption for electric vehicles. It indicates how much energy the vehicle uses to travel 100 kilometers, helping to assess efficiency.
WLTP
"...657 kilometers of range WLTP, 12.7 kilometers, kilowatt hours per 100 kilometers."
WLTP is a testing method used to measure how far a car can go on a full charge. It's meant to give a better idea of real-world driving range.
WLTP stands for Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure, which is a standard for measuring the fuel consumption and emissions of vehicles. It provides a more realistic estimate of range compared to previous testing methods.
battery pack
"So the one that I just described, uh, which is the same thing just with the smaller battery pack, 463 kilometers of range, but that's"
A battery pack is what stores the electricity in an electric car. The bigger the battery pack, the further the car can go before needing to recharge.
A battery pack in electric vehicles is a collection of battery cells that store energy to power the vehicle. The size and capacity of the battery pack directly affect the vehicle's range and performance.
EPA
"EP, uh, EPA versus WLTP. So in miles from my friends in the U S it's, uh, I should have put it in the article, but it's 288 miles."
The EPA is a U.S. government agency that sets rules to protect the environment. It also rates how many miles cars can drive on a gallon of fuel.
The EPA, or Environmental Protection Agency, is a U.S. government agency responsible for regulating and enforcing national standards for environmental protection, including vehicle emissions and fuel economy ratings.
Mercedes-Benz CLA
"...in the market in production vehicle, specifically the new Mercedes-Benz CLA. Starting"
The Mercedes-Benz CLA is a smaller, stylish car from Mercedes-Benz that is designed to be more affordable while still offering luxury features.
The Mercedes-Benz CLA is a compact luxury sedan that combines style with performance. It is part of Mercedes-Benz's lineup aimed at younger buyers looking for an entry-level luxury vehicle.
Level 2 Plus
"...They are talking about Level 2 Plus, who's been talking about Level 2 Plus here at GM, right? Yeah, they won't call it Level 3, even though it kind of is..."
Level 2 Plus is a type of driving assistance that helps drivers more than basic systems. It can guide the car from one point to another without needing much input from the driver, but it's not fully self-driving yet.
Level 2 Plus refers to an advanced driver assistance system that provides more automation than traditional Level 2 systems, allowing for features like point-to-point navigation. It is not fully autonomous but enhances the driving experience significantly.
FSD
"...Tesla invented basically with FSD, because it's like it's Level 2 at the law level, but it endles point to point navigation..."
FSD means Full Self-Driving, which is a technology from Tesla that lets their cars drive themselves with very little help from the driver. It's designed to handle most driving tasks on its own.
FSD stands for Full Self-Driving, a feature developed by Tesla that aims to provide fully autonomous driving capabilities. It includes advanced navigation and driving features that allow the car to operate with minimal human intervention.
Level 4
"...but obviously they are aiming eventually for Level 4..."
Level 4 means a car can drive itself completely in certain situations without needing a driver to take control. It's a big step closer to cars that can drive anywhere by themselves.
Level 4 refers to a high level of vehicle automation where the car can handle all driving tasks in specific conditions without human intervention. This level is a significant step towards fully autonomous vehicles.
hardware stack
"...they have the Vera Rubin, which is the new hardware stack that's replacing the Blackwell that's going to power that..."
A hardware stack is the collection of parts inside a car that help it use technology, like sensors and computers. These parts work together to make the car smarter and safer.
A hardware stack refers to the combination of physical components and systems that work together to enable a vehicle's technology, such as its driving assistance features. It includes sensors, processors, and other necessary equipment.
Nvidia
"...when the Nvidia give it to you for free. And I think this..."
Nvidia is a company that makes computer chips, especially for graphics and AI. They also help cars drive themselves by providing the technology needed for that.
Nvidia is a technology company known for its graphics processing units (GPUs) and artificial intelligence (AI) solutions. In the automotive industry, Nvidia provides hardware and software for self-driving car systems.
Waymo
"Where does Waymo fit into all that though? Like, isn't Waymo the Android? Because they're kind of... They are Android."
Waymo is a company that makes self-driving cars. They started as part of Google and now work on technology that allows cars to drive themselves without a human driver.
Waymo is a self-driving technology company that originated as a project within Google. It focuses on developing autonomous vehicle technology and operates a ride-hailing service using its self-driving cars.
BYD
"We see it in China with BYD, with Expong, with Xiaomi, with Huawei offering this at a fraction of the cost of what Tesla has been doing."
BYD is a car company from China that makes electric vehicles. They are becoming popular and are known for their affordable prices.
BYD is a Chinese automotive manufacturer known for producing electric vehicles and batteries. The company has rapidly expanded its presence in the global automotive market, particularly in the electric vehicle segment.
Rivian
"Even Rivian is sitting in their own thing at a fraction of the cost of Tesla, even though completely agree that it's not on par with Tesla yet, FSD at all."
Rivian is a new car company from the United States that makes electric trucks and SUVs. They are known for their unique designs and features.
Rivian is an American electric vehicle manufacturer known for its all-electric trucks and SUVs, particularly the R1T and R1S models. The company focuses on adventure-oriented vehicles and has gained attention for its innovative technology and design.
unsupervised self-driving
"But it seems like there's going to be quite a few other options. Yeah, exactly. And also, the $100,000 price was also if you actually achieve unsupervised self-driving."
Unsupervised self-driving means the car can drive itself without anyone needing to pay attention or help. It's like having a robot chauffeur.
Unsupervised self-driving refers to a level of vehicle autonomy where the car can operate completely without human intervention. This is a significant leap from current systems that require driver oversight.
solid state batteries
"...we're going to get some production vehicle with solid state batteries by the end of the decade..."
Solid state batteries are a newer type of battery that use solid materials instead of liquids. They are expected to be safer and more efficient than the batteries we commonly use today.
Solid state batteries are a type of battery technology that uses solid electrodes and a solid electrolyte, as opposed to the liquid or gel electrolytes found in traditional lithium-ion batteries. They promise higher energy density, faster charging times, and improved safety.
production vehicle
"...we're going to get some production vehicle with solid state batteries by the end of the decade..."
A production vehicle is a car that is actually made and sold to people, not just a test version. These are the cars you can buy in a dealership.
A production vehicle refers to a car that is manufactured and sold to consumers, as opposed to prototypes or concept cars that are not available for purchase. These vehicles are built in large quantities and meet regulatory standards.
Solid Power
"...there's been a lot of progress. Solid Power out of the U.S...."
Solid Power is a company that works on new types of batteries for electric cars. They are trying to make batteries that are safer and last longer.
Solid Power is a U.S.-based company focused on developing solid state battery technology for electric vehicles. They aim to enhance battery performance and safety compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries.
QuantumScape
"...QuantumScape out of the U.S...."
QuantumScape is a company that is working on new battery technology for electric cars. They want to make batteries that charge quickly and can power cars for longer distances.
QuantumScape is a technology company that specializes in developing solid state battery technology for electric vehicles. They focus on creating batteries that can provide longer ranges and faster charging times.
Verge
"...the first production battery, solid state battery cell and it's already in a production vehicle. The new Verge..."
The Verge is a brand of electric motorcycles that are designed to be fast and efficient. They use new technology to make their bikes better.
The Verge is an electric motorcycle brand known for its innovative designs and technology. They focus on high-performance electric motorcycles that utilize advanced battery technology.
Ford Maverick
"around $30,000. But yeah, we're thinking maverick size or ranger size midsize, I think it's maveric..."
Ford Rangers
"...the smaller rangers and rangers are the smaller..."
The Ford Ranger is a midsize truck that is larger than the Maverick. It's built for tough jobs and can handle off-road adventures while still being comfortable to drive.
The Ford Ranger is a midsize pickup truck known for its ruggedness and off-road capability. It offers a balance of power and efficiency, making it suitable for both work and recreational use.
off-road
"...some kind of offroading..."
Off-road means driving on surfaces that aren't regular roads, like dirt or rocks. Some cars are built specifically to handle these tough conditions better than regular cars.
Off-road refers to driving on unpaved surfaces, such as dirt, gravel, mud, or rocks, rather than on traditional paved roads. Vehicles designed for off-road use typically have features that enhance their capability in these conditions.
Ford Bronco
"Some kind of offroading. That's the Bronco. Yeah, it looks like Bronco. So they plan to do t..."
The Ford Bronco is a tough SUV designed for driving on rough terrain, like dirt roads and mountains. It's famous for its cool look and ability to handle outdoor adventures, which is why people love talking about it.
The Ford Bronco is a classic American SUV known for its rugged off-road capabilities and iconic design. Originally launched in the 1960s, it has been reintroduced with modern features while maintaining its adventurous spirit, making it a popular choice among off-road enthusiasts.
Volvo EX90
"Volvo said, so that was your article this week, you got some of the new specs for the EX-60. Yeah, it's a Volvo's kind of like midsize SUV between the EX-30, EX-90, and, you know, they have the S60, they have a bunch of like 60 vehicles already, but this one is"
The Volvo EX90 is a new electric SUV that doesn't use gas, making it better for the environment. It's designed to be safe and comfortable, and it's part of Volvo's effort to create more eco-friendly cars.
The Volvo EX90 is a fully electric midsize SUV that represents Volvo's commitment to sustainability and advanced safety features. It is part of a new lineup of electric vehicles aimed at providing a premium driving experience while reducing environmental impact.
Volvo S60
"...en the EX-30, EX-90, and, you know, they have the S60, they have a bunch of like 60 vehicles already, b..."
The Volvo S60 is a nice, comfortable car that's designed to keep you safe while driving. It's stylish and has a lot of modern features, making it a good option for anyone looking for a reliable sedan.
The Volvo S60 is a luxury sedan that emphasizes safety, comfort, and performance. Known for its sleek design and advanced technology, it has become a popular choice among those seeking a reliable and stylish vehicle.
Kia EV3
"...e lineup of new GT EV models. So you have the Kia EV3 GT here. So that's on the smaller side of it. I t..."
The Kia EV3 is a new electric car that runs on batteries instead of gas. It's part of Kia's plan to make more cars that are good for the environment and easy to drive.
The Kia EV3 is an upcoming electric vehicle that is part of Kia's expanding lineup of electric cars. It is expected to feature modern design and technology, catering to consumers looking for efficient and eco-friendly transportation.
Pontiac Torrent
"... and the smaller motor in the back for a combined torrent 15 torrent 88 horsepower, a bunch of different de..."
The Pontiac Torrent is a medium-sized SUV that has a lot of space inside for passengers and cargo. It's not as popular as some other SUVs, but it can be a good choice if you need something roomy.
The Pontiac Torrent is a midsize SUV that was produced in the mid-2000s, known for its spacious interior and versatility. While it offered a comfortable ride, it was overshadowed by competitors and is less common in today's market.
Kia EV5
"...ot slow but not crazy fast too. Then you have the EV5, which is our midsize SUV that can also get a GT ..."
The Kia EV5 is a new electric SUV that is bigger than the EV3 and designed for families or people who need more space. It runs on batteries, so you won't need to buy gas, making it a good choice for saving money.
The Kia EV5 is a midsize electric SUV that offers a blend of performance and practicality, designed to meet the needs of modern drivers. It is part of Kia's strategy to expand its electric vehicle offerings and compete in the growing EV market.
Chevrolet Volt
"...th the investment. It's nothing. Yeah. And the 61 volt wagon makes a good point. If the battery tech is ..."
The Chevrolet Volt is a car that can run on electricity and gas, which means you can drive it without using much gas if you charge it often. It's a good choice for people who want to save on fuel and help the environment.
The Chevrolet Volt is a plug-in hybrid vehicle that combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor, allowing for extended electric driving range. It was significant in popularizing hybrid technology and providing a more environmentally friendly option for drivers.
Tesla Semi
"...er is a companion product for their donut powered semi trailers. 600 kilowatt hours pack to quickly rech..."
The Tesla Semi is a big electric truck that can carry heavy loads without using gas. It's designed to be better for the environment and save money on fuel for businesses that need to transport goods.
The Tesla Semi is an all-electric truck designed for freight transport, featuring impressive range and performance capabilities. It aims to revolutionize the trucking industry by offering a sustainable alternative to traditional diesel trucks.
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