Episode 555: Tesla Model Y L Launches…in Australia and New Zealand

The “Tesla Roadster” is Tesla’s next-generation electric sports car that the company has repeatedly teased and scheduled for reveal. The segment discusses updates around its re-reveal timing and how Elon Musk’s public statements have shifted.

SpaceX is Elon Musk’s aerospace company, and it’s mentioned here in connection with Tesla’s event planning. The host speculates Tesla may be timing a big demo around SpaceX technology.

A cold gas thruster uses compressed gas expelled through a nozzle to generate thrust, without combustion. The host is referencing “cold gas thruster stuff” as part of a demo, implying a propulsion/attitude-control technology rather than a traditional engine.

Wireless charging for EVs uses electromagnetic power transfer without plugging in a cable. The host is hoping Tesla will announce wireless charging for the “cyber cab,” and notes that real-world deployment will matter once cars are sold to the public.

The Tesla Model Y is Tesla’s compact electric SUV. In this segment, the hosts discuss the newly launched Model Y for Australia and New Zealand and focus on how Tesla is packaging it as a family-oriented vehicle.

Wheelbase is the distance between the front and rear axles. Stretching the wheelbase usually improves interior room and can help ride comfort and stability by changing how the vehicle’s weight and suspension geometry work.

A large front display is the main in-cabin screen used for driving information and vehicle controls. A “16 inch” screen suggests a more prominent, tablet-like interface compared with smaller instrument clusters and center displays.

Captain’s chairs are individual seats (usually in the second row) separated by an aisle and often a center console. They’re commonly used in family vehicles to improve comfort, access, and the “premium” feel of the second row.

HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. Adding an additional HVAC vent for the third row improves airflow distribution so rear passengers get more consistent cooling and heating.

A wireless phone charging pad uses electromagnetic induction to transfer power from a pad in the car to a phone with a compatible receiver. The host notes a common issue: phones can overheat if left on the pad too long, so cooling is important.

XCare is presented as an extended warranty option specifically for EVs. The host emphasizes that timing matters because coverage pricing, eligibility, and available options can change with time and mileage.

Accelerate Auto is mentioned as the seller of XCare extended warranty coverage. In this segment, they’re positioned as an EV-focused provider rather than a generic warranty call center.

The host provides a referral code (“lightning”) to reduce the cost of the XCare policy. They explain that the discount is applied either online at checkout or by mentioning the code during a phone call.

Lucid is an electric-vehicle automaker known for high-efficiency powertrains and aerodynamic design. In this segment, the host discusses Lucid’s plans to expand beyond its current lineup with new midsize models.

Wachenhut is a family-owned dealer group headquartered in Nagold, Germany, with multiple locations in Baden-Württemberg. The key point here is that Lucid is using Wachenhut as a partner to handle distribution and support EVs with trained high-voltage technicians.

BYD is a major Chinese automaker known for producing a wide range of EVs and batteries. The speaker suggests that if other companies lose EV momentum, BYD could benefit because it sells vehicles in many markets outside the U.S.

The Tesla Model 3 is Tesla’s compact sedan. In this segment, the host mentions a 2024 Model 3 experiencing the same walk-away lock behavior, which helps confirm the feature affects multiple Tesla models.

Abstract Ocean is an aftermarket accessories retailer that sells EV-specific add-ons. In this segment they mention items like lighting kits, tempered glass, and screen protectors, and they describe how to shop by the EV model on their site.

A lighting kit is an aftermarket set of lights designed to add or upgrade exterior or interior lighting. These kits are often model-specific so the wiring, mounting points, and connectors match the vehicle.

RPM Tesla is an aftermarket parts and accessories company focused on Tesla vehicles. In this segment they highlight products like wheel upgrades, dashboard items, spoilers, and carbon-fiber body kits, plus installation videos and return/warranty policies.

A full carbon fiber body kit is a set of exterior styling and aerodynamic parts made from carbon fiber. “Full” typically means multiple components (like front/rear pieces and side elements), and carbon fiber is chosen for its strength-to-weight and premium appearance.

Restocking fees are charges a retailer may apply when you return an item. They’re meant to cover handling and inventory costs, and they can make returns more expensive even if the product is unused.

A promo code is a discount code applied at checkout to reduce the purchase price. In this segment, they mention using a code for additional savings and combining it with existing discounted sales.

Infinity Dash Shield is a company that sells a garage-door safety product for vehicles. Their system uses a laser grid to detect obstacles in the path of a garage door, aiming to prevent damage when a car is partially in the garage.

A snap plate is a front license plate bracket that can be attached and removed quickly using a snap-on mechanism. In the segment, it’s positioned as a way to keep a clean look while still being able to comply with front plate requirements when needed.

Every Amp is an aftermarket retailer referenced here for EV accessories. The host specifically mentions their snap-on front license plate bracket and provides a promo code for a discount.

Ceramic coating is a liquid polymer/ceramic layer applied to a car’s paint to add hydrophobic water beading and chemical/UV resistance. It’s often used to reduce the need for frequent waxing and to make the car easier to wash.

Paint protection film (PPF) is a clear, durable film applied to high-impact areas of a vehicle to protect against rock chips, scratches, and road debris. The speaker mentions applying it to the front end or potentially the entire car.