Tesla is currently allowing for 48 hour long demo drives of Model Y, Model 3 and Cybertruck.
I confirmed that all three vehicles are available on the Tesla website in my city of Austin, Texas. Multiple users on X also confirmed they have already booked 48 hour drives in their cities.
This vibes well with Tesla’s history of refraining from spending millions on TV or other ads for its vehicles. “Butts in seats” is one of the best ways to really experience a Tesla.
A traditional demo drive is only 30 minutes.
On a personal note, when I did a 30 minutes drive in late 2019, I experienced a Model 3 Performance. That afternoon had just seen light showers. The hills were deep green, and Capitol of Texas Highway was splendid with slightly wet pavement. I will never forget the sheer joy of the acceleration as I pulled away from a pack of sluggish gas cars. Heading up an incline, the car just kept up a steady acceleration. When I returned the car, I wondered, “do they track my test drive in the Tesla store?” So far as I know, I was free to safely drive as I chose to.
Watch This Tesla Model Y Conquer the Road with FSD!
In episode 115 of my podcast, I dive into the freshly redesigned Tesla Model Y 2025 Launch Series—a car so impressive it earns a perfect 10 stars from me!
I got a rare chance to test drive and film this beauty, inside and out, showcasing why it’s a must-try for Tesla owners. From its jaw-dropping Full Self-Driving (FSD) performance to clever features like the frunk drain plug and emergency door release, this Model Y conquers the road like no other. Watch the full episode exclusively on X [here] and see why I’m urging everyone to activate FSD!
New Model Y Review and why I rate it 10 Stars! Watch this amazing car conquer the road!! Podcast 115 on 𝕏 only.
00:00 Tesla Y Welcome 00:12 emergency door release location 00:18 frunk drain plug 00:30 Launch series screen graphic in action 00:38 Model Y door thug 00:59… pic.twitter.com/aoLo61qolM
Standout Features That Wow: Emergency Release, Frunk, and More
Right out of the gate (00:12), I highlight the emergency door release—smartly tucked in the back door pocket for safety. Then at 00:18, there’s the frunk drain plug—a game-changer for party planners using ice that needs to drain. The Launch Series screen graphic (00:30) dazzles with its crisp visualization, while the “door thunk” (00:38 and 03:27) proves this car’s build quality with that satisfying, solid sound. Steering wheel control buttons and stalks (00:59) make driving intuitive, and the camera views (01:29) pop onto the screen effortlessly. Oh, and the automatic parking feature (01:47)? It’s like the car’s showing off—it nails tight spots with zero stress.
Tesla Model Y 2025 Launch Series Tesla
FSD Steals the Show: Why I Say Always Use It
At 02:46, I explain why FSD is non-negotiable for Model Y owners. During my West Austin test drive, this car tackled tricky roads autonomously—think sharp turns and busy traffic—flawlessly. The middle console (02:08) and spacious interior (02:20) make every ride comfy, but it’s FSD that elevates it to 10-star territory. Whether it’s self-parking or navigating safely, I’ve never felt more confident behind the wheel—or rather, letting the car take it. Tesla owners, if you’ve got FSD and aren’t using it, episode 115 will change your mind. Activate it and feel the magic.
Stunning Design and Final Thoughts
The exterior shines too—those sleek rear lights (04:10) and Launch Series puddle lights (05:23) scream premium. The trunk’s open/close function (04:33) is smooth, and seat belts (05:03) pull just right. At 03:38, I share more thoughts: this Model Y doesn’t just drive; it redefines driving. It’s packed with upgrades—same price as the old Model Y—yet feels like a steal. Watch episode 115 on X [here] to see this amazing car in action. For media and credits, stick around ‘til 05:42. Tesla had built a road-conquering masterpiece!
The exterior shines too—those sleek rear lights (04:10) and Launch Series puddle lights (05:23) scream premium. The trunk’s open/close function (04:33) is smooth, and seat belts (05:03) pull just right. At 03:38, I share more thoughts: this Model Y doesn’t just drive; it redefines driving. It’s packed with upgrades—same price as the old Model Y—yet feels like a steal. Watch episode 115 on X [here](insert your link) to see this amazing car in action. For media and credits, stick around ‘til 05:42. Trust me, this Tesla’s a road-conquering masterpiece!FOR MEDIA USE ONLY News media is welcome to use my material in connection with a story or article. By downloading any content I create, you understand and hereby agree and represent that: (1) you are a member of the news media; (2) use of the content is in connection with a story or an article appearing in newspapers, periodicals, digital publications or television; (3) all images and rights thereto remain the property Gail Alfar.; and (4) use of the image is not for publication covers, advertising, promotion or otherwise for commercial purposes. Furthermore, use of any and all images and content appearing on this page must each include the notice “Courtesy of Gail Alfar” Use of materials copied from this website is at your own risk. You must obtain prior written consent from Gail Alfar for uses that exceed the above parameters.
Experience Tesla Autonomy in Austin – Skeptics, Take Note!
Think Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) is overhyped or unsafe? Episode 114 of my podcast might change your mind. I took a Sapphire Model Y through Austin, Texas, letting FSD handle everything from freeway merges to tricky exits—and it was a blast! Tesla makes the best cars, and this episode, exclusive to X [watch here], shows why. For skeptics doubting autonomous driving, I’ve got timestamps to prove it’s not just safe—it’s magically fun. Join me on this ride and see why FSD is worth trusting.
From Park to Freeway: FSD’s Seamless Start
At 00:01, I press Start from Park, and the Sapphire Model Y springs to life. By 02:56, we’re smoothly onto the freeway—no fuss, no stress. Skeptics often worry about autonomous tech fumbling basic moves, but FSD nails it with precision.
Tesla FSD in Sapphire Model Y: Safe, Fun, and Magical – Podcast 114 Proves It
Safety? Check—cameras and sensors keep us locked on course. Fun? Absolutely—the car’s confidence feels like a co-pilot who’s always one step ahead. This isn’t sci-fi; it’s real-world Austin driving, and it’s a game-changer.
Mastering Lanes and Exits: Safety Meets Magic
Watch at 06:17 as FSD switches from the fast to slow lane—quick, smooth, and safe, even in freeway flow. Then at 06:49, it exits to a right turn, handling the merge like a pro by 09:37 when we re-enter the freeway. At 10:09, another exit and right merge, all autonomous, all flawless. Skeptics, here’s the kicker: no near misses, no hesitation—just a car that reads the road better than most humans. The Sapphire Model Y’s FSD turns stressful maneuvers into a joyride, proving Tesla’s safety claims aren’t just talk.
Why Tesla FSD Wins Over Doubters
Still unsure about Tesla autonomy? Episode 114 [linked here] is your wake-up call. I’ve driven plenty of cars (BMW, Mazda, Honda, Toyota, Oldsmobile), but nothing matches this Model Y’s blend of safety and fun. FSD’s real-time decisions—like lane switches and merges—show it’s built to protect while delivering a thrill. Austin’s busy roads were no match for it, and that’s no fluke—Tesla’s tech learns from millions of miles. Skeptics, ditch the doubts. Watch this podcast on X and see why I’d trust FSD any day. Tesla’s not just the best—it’s the future, and it’s here now.
Tesla FSD Wins Over Doubters
FOR MEDIA USE ONLY News media is welcome to use my material in connection with a story or article. By downloading any content I create, you understand and hereby agree and represent that: (1) you are a member of the news media; (2) use of the content is in connection with a story or an article appearing in newspapers, periodicals, digital publications or television; (3) all images and rights thereto remain the property Gail Alfar.; and (4) use of the image is not for publication covers, advertising, promotion or otherwise for commercial purposes. Furthermore, use of any and all images and content appearing on this page must each include the notice “Courtesy of Gail Alfar” Use of materials copied from this website is at your own risk. You must obtain prior written consent from Gail Alfar for uses that exceed the above parameters.
Gail Alfar Podcast No. 34Image Courtesy Zach on X @blkmdl3
Gail Alfar, author. Exclusive to What’s Up Tesla – All Rights Reserved. My goal as an author and podcaster is to support Tesla (the most American vehicle manufacturer) and Elon Musk in both making life better on Earth for humans and becoming a space-fairing civilization.
By now you’ve seen the headlines about how mean Elon Musk is.
Elon Musk was ‘super mean to Gates’ after the Tesla stock feud, refused a charity request via terse text message exchange, and Gates and Musk Clash Over Philanthropy and Climate Change
Elon Musk should be a lot nicer, right?
The media are villainizing Elon Musk, agreeing with Gates that Elon was mean to Gates after he gave him a tour in Austin of the Tesla Gigafactory, which produces the Model Y and will soon produce the Cybertruck.
Read on for more, but first, welcome to my blog! As I sit relaxing here in Austin, Texas, watching the sun go down on the end of September 11, I’m watching the buildings lit up in red, white, and blue and the flags at half-staff gracing the capital of Texas.
Living in such a beautiful city, in such a wonderful country where there are so many opportunities gives rise to hope in my heart that companies that are built by Americans in America will thrive. We’ve seen this happen with Apple, everybody equates Apple with being an American brand. Bill Gates built Microsoft in this country with some of the finest talent in Silicon Valley.
Everybody thinks of Microsoft as an American company, and it would seem odd indeed to outwardly root for these two American companies to fail.
Let’s fast forward to Tesla. I’ve never seen such an incredible company receive so much negative press and hatred, simply because the workers of that company chose not to unionize. There are other reasons, people say that Elon Musk is a person who doesn’t deserve for his company to be successful, because he steps on their toes, and doesn’t agree with everybody’s generalized overall opinion. He is a change-making type of person and for Elon Musk to accelerate change, he does things that are dramatically, different and fast.
So here we are with some new information that Bill Gates has held and may still be holding an extraordinarily large stock position against Tesla.
Gates May Be Tesla’s Biggest Shortseller
Make no mistake about it, a short position to the tune of millions of dollars is designed to only succeed if Tesla fails. The money that Gates had tied up in his short position is more than millions, he had shorted Tesla by $1.5 BILLION. This may place Gates in the running to be the person who shorted Tesla by the highest amount. Gates invested so much money in trying to kill Tesla, that he makes the TSLAQ crowd on the X App look like the Three Stooges in a roadside show!
To paint Elon Musk as a villain, because he was unhappy and hurt and angry when he found out Gates did this, is poor reporting.
If Gates retains a short position today against Tesla, he has a moral obligation to close his short position and re-purpose his money for good things.
Bill Gates has spent a lot of money and energy and effort, crafting a good public image. Early on he built a reputation as somebody saving lives in different countries through vaccine programs.
Walking the Walk: Elon Musk
Elon Musk doesn’t bother to curate his “public image” in this way, because he’s busy being first and foremost, a technologist, and an engineer. He is not trying to engineer his image for the public, he’s trying to engineer an opportunity for you and your children to have hope in the future, which means everybody gets a chance to watch humanity have a base on the moon.
Elon is giving people an opportunity to see space travel originate in our country.
He is giving people an opportunity to see beautiful vehicles built in factories in the USA. He brings jobs to people who need them.
Today the news came out (this was totally ignored by the media) that Tesla generated 28,524 jobs in the last year, this is more than double the number of jobs generated by any other EV manufacturer. See the report by Inside EVs, “USA added over 188K EV-Related Jobs, Led by Tesla.”
As an American, I couldn’t imagine rooting for Elon Musk to fail, he is the inspiration and success story that we should be rooting for. We should be hoping his company succeeds, hoping his employees thrive, and hoping that the continued success of SpaceX showers down on Starship, which is man’s hope for becoming multi-planetary.
We ought to all be very grateful to Elon Musk for utilizing his unique style to greatly improve our world. If you are like me, a parent with kids, and I have five kids, you know you support each of your kids and you endeavor to see all the good in them.
ᴍᴏᴅᴇʟ ʏ ᴀᴛ ɢɪɢᴀ ᴛᴇxᴀꜱ
To sum up, Bill Gates truly has a moral obligation to close his short position on Tesla. My suggestion to Mr. Gates would be that he would repurpose those billions into something good to make up for the damage he has caused to Tesla, he should designate those funds to go towards something good. I hope you have a beautiful month of September, Enjoy your life, your friends, and your family, and find precious moments to rejuvenate yourself. I rejuvenate myself by writing, and I appreciate your readership.
Article by Gail Alfar, please credit accordingly. Gail writes on X independently, she also writes for WhatsUpX.
Tesla is doing a lot of good in this world, much of which was shared in the Tesla Q2 2023 Update on July 19, 2023. I hope you enjoy this article, and that it leaves you with optimism & hope for the future!
(Austin, Texas) On Investor Day 2023, Elon Musk and the Tesla team explained how a global sustainable economy is within reach through these six actions:
1. Repower the Existing Grid with Renewables
2. Switch to Electric Vehicles
3. Switch to Heat Pumps in Residential, Business & Industry
4. Electrify High Temperature Heat Delivery and Hydrogen Production
5. Sustainably Fuel Planes & Boats
6. Manufacture the Sustainable Energy Economy
I’m confident that many companies around the world are making progress towards these actions and I believe Tesla is showing and leading the way!
REPOWER THE EXISTING GRID WITH RENEWABLES
Success is imminent in this arena. Thus far, ½ million Tesla Powerwalls have been installed on homes by customers. I personally installed 3 Powerwalls recently and am excited to be a part of what will make Texas become a strong force in the energy economy. I believe that being solid in energy, or defying the odds in these times of climate extremes, means Texas can lead. Last year, I spoke to the ERCOT board of directors in Texas, urging the leadership to do everything they can to promote Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) in Texas. I watched the Tesla Energy team spend years getting to the point where they are now in Texas. Tesla Electric started in Texas and will one day reach to all states.
VPP regulatory challenges are hard, as mentioned during the Tesla Q2 2023 Update, and that cannot and does not stop Tesla Energy from meeting the challenges. The best case for VPPs is they are much cheaper and much faster to respond to grid weakness than traditional fossil fuel peakers.
ENERGY AND SERVICES & OTHER BUSINESSES
Tesla has deployed 3653 MWh of energy storage Megapacks. This is an incredible 222% increase over last year, where 113 MWh were deployed. This is a testament to the incredible work of the Megapack manufacturing plant in Lathrop, California.
The current Tesla Electric pilot program for charging for Model 3 owners will expand to all Tesla owners in Texas later this year.
SWITCH TO ELECTRIC VEHICLES
Image Model Y credit Tesla, Inc.
When looking at the current business, Tesla’s number one priority is investment, and that includes investment AI and capacity expansion. The second top priority is to maximize volume in a way that can support expansion.
Has volume been expanding? Yes, Elon Musk thanked Tesla owners for making the Model Y become a best-seller over cars like the Toyota Corolla. This is important, given Tesla is just getting started with production at scale because Tesla will maximize volume in a way that can support even more expansion. Tesla had the best-ever vehicle production and deliveries in a single quarter, with a total of 466,140 deliveries, and they are just getting started!
— Remember, in Q2-2022 (just 12 months ago), there were a total of 254,695 vehicle deliveries.
To accelerate the switch to EVs, Tesla makes Full-Self driving (FSD) software and hardware available to other OEMs. It is now known that Tesla is in serious talks with another OEM to license their FSD software and hardware. This is exciting news as it means it will make that other carmaker an alluring competitor to other traditional gasoline cars.
SUPERCHARGING AND THE NACS
As you may know, Supercharging in the Tesla Network is a seamless experience. The Tesla Charging standard – or the “NACS” is part of Tesla’s way to help accelerate the EV revolution. Many other automakers have already announced they will adopt the NACS so that their EVs can supercharge in the Tesla Network. This includes Ford, Mercedes, Rivian, Volva, Polestar, and Nissan! You’ll see a level playing field, meaning all EVs will be welcomed.
Q3 is an important time for doing some critical upgrades to all of Tesla’s gigafactories. These upgrades will mean that production rates will improve dramatically.
Elon explained the real-time pulse updates he gets. He said there are challenges in increasing interest rates, making it important to therefore decrease the price of the car to make up for increased interest rates.
ROBOTAXI
Elon Musk carefully explained that “Every car may be worth 5X as much as today due to autonomy.” He compared Robotaxi to Airbnb and discussed a step-change in history.
Elon Musk on vehicle order intake: “Demand has roughly tracked production, which is what we aim for; we have real-time demand and real-time production data.”
Lars Moravy of Vehicle Engineering said there’s a misconception about giga castings, which are in Model 3 and Y. Giga casting is 3X faster and much cheaper. Collision repair is in a closed (in-house) loop so when collisions occur, inserts can be replaced in the castings and this is done often and easily.
Elon commented that the referral program is and will continue to be effective. He also said that many people (potential customers) are not breaking even every month, and macroeconomic conditions are impossible to control. He’s correct, I have spoken to many people who struggle every day to meet bills. Elon is well aware of this and thankfully is engineering solutions for people.
Giga Texas 4680 battery cell production increased by 80% in Q2 over Q1. The Giga Texas team produced over 10M cells, there was a beautiful image shared of the team by the Tesla X account.
Tesla is creating a unique Cybercell to bring energy density and cost improvements. Drew Baglino, SVP of Powertrain and Energy Engineering at Tesla, said Tesla is scaling their Cybercell 4680 battery for use in Cybertruck.
Elon Musk has been key to Cybertruck’s engineering and development, walking the production line and driving it around Austin, Texas. He said Cybertruck is the first truck that we’re aware of that will have four doors, over a 6-foot bed, and will fit into a 20-foot garage. So, it’s sort of biggest on the outside, but it’s even bigger on the inside.”
In more good news, Tesla has seen a reduction in pricing, across the across-the-board for all commodities, such as nickel, cobalt and graphite. This is good not only for Tesla but also for many other companies involved in the transition to a sustainable energy economy.
CONCLUSION
Finding ways to power our world with sustainable energy is necessary for maximum happiness for humanity.
While short-term stock fluctuations are fun to play with, that’s like candy in a candy shop. The serious meat is accelerating the transition to a world economy that is powered by sustainable energy. That’s why this article is about what progress is being made towards Master Plan 3, as communicated by Elon Musk and Tesla leadership at the Q2, 2023 Update.
I am rooting for a continued switch to heat pumps in residential, business & industry, the electrification of high-temperature heat delivery and hydrogen production, and sustainably fueled planes & boats.
Giga Texas Cybertruck Production Line, Image Credit Tesla, Inc.
Elon Musk recommends people follow @fintwit_news on X and look at the analysis by ARK Invest. Article by Gail Alfar, please credit accordingly.
They do, and it’s on their website, and it features things like tire management, how best to pre-condition the interior so the cabin is cool when you enter the vehicle, and much more. I’ll link to it for you, and here are my fav hacks for handling the heat.
Sunshades!
Sunshades make a huge difference in the summer and I love installing them, Tesla says,
“Help prevent heat from entering the cabin by using sunshades. With sunshades installed, your vehicle’s cabin conditioning uses less energy to maintain a desired temperature. Sunshades are available for the glass roof and rear liftgate.”
In addition to sunshades, I always throw up a big front windshield sunshade that I keep in the backseat at all times. Mine was made for the Model Y. For all my sunshades, I choose them based on size and if they have a silver reflective surface to maximize effectiveness.
Windows Closed.
This seems like a no-brainer, and I am addicted to the wind, but keeping the windows up is pure physics, and here’s what Tesla says about it,
“When you want to maximize efficiency and range while keeping your cabin temperature comfortable, drive with the windows up and set climate to ‘Auto.’ This takes full advantage of your vehicle’s aerodynamics and allows your climate system to adjust settings automatically. In ‘Auto,’ climate will reach your desired temperature as quickly as possible and maintain it with minimal energy consumption.”
I never let my vehicle’s cabin reach over 100 °F. Tesla has two ways to protect your cabin from overheating. Tesla explains,
“ON uses air conditioning to prevent the cabin from exceeding 105° F / 40° C.
“NO A/C uses less energy while still providing some cooling by blowing outside air into the cabin.
“To activate, go to ‘Controls’ > ‘Safety’ > ‘Cabin Overheat Protection’ on your vehicle touchscreen, or expand the bottom drawer in the Climate section of the Tesla app.
This summer’s heat index here in Austin has reached over 100 °F for many days in a row now. I think all cars need protection.
Please check out Tesla’s awesome tips and pass them along as we experience one of the hottest summers yet.
Save with Gail's Referral. Order Tesla products with Gail's Referral Link to earn cash off your order plus exclusive referral benefits. ts.la/gail74884
Image Austin Frost Bank building at Sunset, courtesy Aerial Austin Drone Photographers
(Austin, Texas) In October 2008, Elon Musk became CEO of Tesla and on June 29, 2010, Tesla made history by going public at a share price of $17. This move not only garnered attention from investors but also served as a turning point for the company’s growth trajectory.
Let’s look at some major milestones in the history of Tesla. I’ll share my insight on what I think are the next big things for Tesla.
“The smartest money in the world is betting on Tesla. They must have a reason for doing so.” – Elon Musk, Tesla IPO day (2010)
Elon Musk is a wonderful Technoking of Tesla!
He’s optimistic, takes action daily to make the future good and lives with a sense of urgency. This sense of urgency was evident on one occasion when I had the rare opportunity to speak with him at Giga Texas in August 2022.
I can tell you that after meeting Elon Musk, what he shares on Twitter is essentially the same as what he talks about in person. He spoke about how important it is to get Starship into orbit and how important solving autonomy is. He is a highly technical and brilliant engineer.
“But I think what a lot of people don’t realize, is what I do 80% of the time in engineering. You know it’s actually quite rare for me to give a talk. My day-to-day work at SpaceX and Tesla is almost entirely engineering and design and also production. Production is key, although I consider that to be part of engineering.” – Elon Musk, Baron Conference ‘22
Battery Technology Advancements
Tesla’s expertise in battery technology has been a game-changer in the world of electric vehicles and energy storage. The company’s relentless focus on research and development has yielded remarkable results, with continuous improvements in battery efficiency, energy density, and longevity. I own a Model Y and never worry about the battery. Tesla’s software does the job of keeping the battery healthy by preconditioning it as I drive towards a Supercharger, or cooling it depending on hot weather, and making sure it conserves energy in a pinch.
Introduction of the Tesla Model S in 2012
I was very excited to see the Model S in Austin in 2012 and go on a test drive soon after! What an exciting time it was! The Model S showcased Tesla’s ability to create an electric vehicle that not only rivaled but surpassed its combustion-engine counterparts. With groundbreaking aerodynamics, innovative powertrain design, and advanced thermal management, the S demonstrated that electric cars could offer exhilarating acceleration, exceptional range, and luxurious comfort.
Recognizing The Importance Of A Robust Charging Infrastructure For All EVs
Tesla pioneered the development of the Supercharger network. These high-power charging stations, strategically placed along popular travel routes, offer Tesla owners and now other EVs a convenient and efficient way to recharge their vehicles, reducing range anxiety and promoting long-distance travel. The deployment of V3 Superchargers, capable of delivering up to 250 kW of power, further solidifies Tesla’s commitment to fast and seamless charging experiences.
Autopilot and Full Self-Driving Capabilities
Tesla’s advancements in autonomous driving have been a focal point of the industry and my personal favorite feature of my beautiful Model Y. I use Tesla FSD beta for 90% of my driving. Through a combination of hardware and software innovations, including the neural network-based perception systems, and machine learning algorithms, Tesla has made significant strides towards achieving full self-driving capabilities. The Autopilot feature, which comes with every vehicle at no extra cost, has revolutionized the driving experience, paving the way for a future with safer and more efficient transportation including future Robotaxis.
Gigafactories
Tesla’s relentless pursuit of scalability led to the establishment of Gigafactories, massive production facilities designed to manufacture big batteries, electric drivetrains, and vehicles on an unprecedented scale. These state-of-the-art factories, strategically located around the globe, optimize production processes, reduce costs, and accelerate the adoption of sustainable transportation on a global scale. At least three of Tesla’s gigafactories are expanding in size as you are reading this article! This includes Gigafactory Nevada, Giga Berlin, and Giga Shanghai. I am familiar with Gigafactory New York, and Lathrop’s Megafactory for big batteries.
Under the big, blue Texas sky is Giga Texas, an achievement that inspires and produces a sense of awe. The gigafactory can be seen from space as it is huge, with solar panels on the roof that spell out “Tesla.” The gigafactory and its surroundings buzz with activity and even driving near it fills you with exhilaration knowing this is the home of both Model Y and Cybertruck!
“Giga Texas is a $10B+ investment over time, generating at least 20k direct & 100k indirect jobs” – Elon Musk on Twitter
What is Next for Tesla?
This is not a full list, and there are likely many plans Tesla has which we do not know about. But here’s a few to get you excited!
Giga Mexico will build a next-gen (more affordable) vehicle. The gigafactory will likely attract the best of Mexico’s talent in automotive.
Tesla Lithium Refinery in Texas is being built and will strengthen the reliability and reduce the cost of Tesla’s batteries. The factory will bring needed jobs to the Corpus Christi area.
Production will scale for Cybertruck and Semi. The roads will change, bringing the future to the present. Tesla will hold a Cybertruck Event!
The delightful and reliable Optimus Bot will charm both owners and co-workers!
More Stores, Galleries and ServiceCenters will be opened.
Supercharging will expand and so will Destination and Home charging.
Tesla Electric will expand Virtual Power Plants and, working with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) it will make sure all VPPs across the USA and Puerto Rico prove they can respond reliably and faster than traditional natural gas or oil power plants.
For more, study Tesla Masterplan Part 3, a framework that lays the foundation for a sustainable economy that will result in less mining and/or extraction than is currently done. People often worry about “rare earths.” In reality, zero rare earths are needed for the transition to sustainable energy. Have a great day and thank you for supporting my independent journalism!
Article written with pleasure by Gail aAfar, please credit accordingly. All images in article are Courtesy Tesla, Inc.
(Austin, Texas) There are moments in life when you know it is time to make big changes that will alter the course of your life forever. Purchasing a new Tesla Vehicle is one of those moments. When I bought my Model 3 with FSD beta, it opened up a whole new chapter in my life. How did this happen?
The all-electric Model 3 was clean, fast, and drove itself (with my supervision) and it inspired me to start learning about electric powertrain engineering. This led to me to research the creation of Tesla’s Gigafactory in Texas. I followed the development of Giga Texas from before Day 1.
Elon Musk Interview/Meeting
This passion eventually led to me writing this blog, making incredible friendships, and meeting these friends in real life. One such encounter was on June 25, 2022, at the completed Gigafactory Texas. I had the pleasure of meeting Elon Musk and asking him about battery storage and Distributed Energy Resources [DERs].
I asked Elon Musk if he could talk a little about DERs and if Gigafactory Texas could be protected in the event of an emergency, Elon replied,
“Well, I think this is going to be in terms of batteries, a combination of large batteries, sort of utility-scale batteries with very big installations. Like we just did a big thing with PG&E at Moss Landing in California which is going to be very important for maintaining power in California. There is a number of other installations happening. And then at the local level, you’ve got the Powerwalls that collectively can stabilize the grid within a neighborhood. So, the combination of centralized batteries with Megapack and distributed batteries at homes and businesses with powerwall working together can have a very positive effect in making sure the power stays on.” – Elon Musk
Save With Tesla Referral Link
When you purchase your first electric vehicle, you’ll want to make a wise choice. Tesla offers four variants: Model S, Model 3, Model X, and Model Y. You can save money when you use a referral link. Any referral link is valuable, and if you would like, I will share mine https://www.tesla.com/referral/gail74884
This link also helps you receive savings on Tesla Solar Panels, Solar Roof, as well as can provide you with a free Demo Drive. Enjoy!
Cybertruck, 2023 Shareholder’s Meeting. Photo Courtesy Sarah Alfar.
(May 20, 2023 Austin, Texas)
“The goal is to give people hope, realistic hope, and simply to say that there is a path to a fully sustainable global economy, that we are on that path, that we are accelerating that path, and so long as we don’t get complacent about it, it will happen.” – Elon Musk at Shareholder Meeting on Master Plan 3
At the heart of Tesla’s success lies Elon Musk, the incredible Tesla team, and a dedicated community of individuals who are passionate about the company and its mission.
For this article, you’ll get to come along with me to the shareholders meeting and we’ll start in the line of cars and then meet some awesome people! Let’s set the time machine back to May 16, 2023, and hop in my Tesla.
IMAGINING YOU ARE WITH ME AT THE SHAREHOLDER’S MEETING
Joining a long line of cars, we are very close to Gigafactory Texas and we see production at scale in action in front of us. Numerous deliveries on large, semi flatbeds are pouring in as we wait, car carriers leave the factory loaded with new Model Y. The battery cathode plant and die shop are huge. The employee parking lot is overflowing.
You get the window seat once we’re on the bus ride to the entrance. The bus lumbers off around the Gigafactory. I say I could do this ride over again 50 times and you tell me I’m a little extreme (I disagree, haha).
We see a holding lot filled with Model Y as far as the eye can see. Model Y are charging at a George Jetson style charging bay shaded by solar panels. Next up, a loading lot where inspections are being done, then cars line up to wait for their turn onto a car carrier. There are long lines of car carriers.
You pass several employee parking lots, they are bigger than you expected.
The tour bus drives closer to the Gigafactory, and a cool shadow is cast over the bus as you gaze up. We both gasp. The bus feels tiny as we crane our necks to look up to the rooftop. The roof is covered with solar panels that spell out “TESLA,” but you already know that from when you flew into Austin.
While we wait to tour the Tesla Semi, a graffiti artist is creating Cybertruck art on the side of a shipping container. The day is perfect, 80 degree weather, a few puffy clouds, we’re lucky to be here!
You think you almost lost me after the Semi tour but then find me ogling the Cybertruck and the German-made Model Ys on the other side of the street. The size of the truck is bigger than you expect. The Berlin Model Y paint is glamorous under the sun to say the least!
TOUR
As we enter the Gigafactory Tour, it’s apparent it’s in full production and did not shut down at all for this event, rather it looks like it’s under an even higher pace than imagined. Employees are actively working on model Y, and the production line is visible and moving along fast. We hear occasional happy beeps from Model Y under production and it sounds like they’re saying, “hey, I’m glad you came to see us.”
We’re able to see the ground floor and then climb up stairs to the second floor and look down, which is incredible. The factory is so big and everything looks so clean and everybody working looks like they have purpose and order in what they do.
As a tour guide instructs us on the manufacturing processes in a video, you and I are more interested in listening to the sounds in the factory and watching the production line below, it’s an all inspiring vision, seeing these vehicles being brought to production at scale, and being there in person, is an experience that feels like the future. It inspires us to think about how incredible it is to be a part of Tesla’s success just by being a supporter and investor.
Reality kicks us in the face while the security guard says “hey ma’am, your tour is leaving.”
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I hope this gave you a feel for if you had been at the Tesla shareholder Meeting. For the remainder of this article, I’ll introduce you to three inspiring people I had conversations with.
FROM TESLA OWNER TO INVESTOR
Winston was wearing a Longhorn shirt and the “Don’t Mess with Tesla” belt buckle which caught my eye. He and his daughter Anne were waiting in line at the Tesla store.
Winston told me he bought a Model 3 in 2020. He said the minute he stepped into his Tesla, the experience was so incredible that right away, knew he needed to invest.
He now uses FSDbeta all over Houston, and he would not travel around any other way.
I told him I had also used FSD beta in Houston and it was flawless. (My Podcast #14 is all in Baytown & Houston)
WITNESSING THE NEW EVOLUTION OF NORMALCY
I always respect the confidentiality and privacy of Tesla employees, so I’ll just briefly share with you what one employee said while keeping him private. Without mentioning his position at Tesla, I can say he looked at Tesla with a blend of optimism and amazement. He told me he loves working at Tesla and compared it to what he knew about car manufacturing before he was hired. As a kid, he grew up in Detroit and his father worked in automotive manufacturing. He would visit the factory and remembers it for the awful smell of toxic fumes.
At Tesla, “you can actually walk through it and breathe clean air. It doesn’t even seem like a car factory at times. I am experiencing the new evolution of normalcy.”
SUPPORT FOR ELON MUSK FROM NORTH CAROLINA
Just outside the Tesla Gigafactory, near some oak trees, there was a handful of food and beverage trucks. I ordered a grilled cheese sandwich and a slushie and looked for a shady place to eat. This is how I met the Whitley family. Dan Whitley’s love for Elon and Tesla was evident in his commitment to being a part of the Tesla mission.
Dan explained to me that he supports Elon Musk because, “I think he’s a believable person and I think he’s got a kind heart and I believe in his mission and believe in him and just try to support him the best I can.” Laughing, Dan said, “And I’ve got 8 Tesla’s so I’m supporting him!” I asked if this was normal for N. Carolina, and he said. “The company spoke to me, they have a good mission and I want to support them.”
CONCLUSION
The conversations I had with people at the shareholder meeting offer a glimpse into the passion and devotion people have for Tesla and in the vision of Elon Musk. for some, it even made them rethink their future. William Cross from Connecticut was at the Shareholder Meeting. I caught up with him later, and he told me how the experience left an impact on him. “It really made me rethink what I’m doing here. I fell in love with the South. I want to learn more and one day work for Tesla or SpaceX.”
The company Tesla as a whole inspires many people, and Elon is highly respected and supported by many. When you hear negative talk about Elon Musk, please realize that is a small minority. A small, very vocal minority. They, in no way, represent what most people truly think.
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Article by Gail Alfar. please credit accordingly. Thanks to Tesla for being amazing. Thanks to Elon Musk and all my subscribers and readers on Twitter who support my writing in many different ways, I appreciate you very much. Video Courtesy @Tesla Inc., Pic credits Sarah Alfar and Greggortruck.
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