Weekend Round-Up: Elon Musk's SpaceX, Tesla's New Model, And More
This weekend was filled with thrilling news in the tech and automotive sectors. From Elon Musk presenting new advancements at SpaceX to Tesla Inc. preparing for the launch of a new vehicle, there was plenty to discuss. Additionally, General Motors made some noteworthy changes regarding its autonomous vehicle division, while Lucid Motors provided impressive range figures for its latest SUV.
Let's explore the details.
SpaceX's Starship Gets a Makeover
Elon Musk announced that the next version of SpaceX's Starship spacecraft is ready for its seventh test flight, featuring substantial design upgrades. Musk emphasized that the new model is "lighter, easier to manufacture, and less prone to overheating." These updates aim to improve the spacecraft’s overall performance and efficiency.
Tesla's Affordable Model Q
Tesla Inc. is reportedly preparing to unveil a new vehicle, the Model Q, expected to launch in the first half of 2025. Priced under $30,000 after subsidies, the Model Q will cater to budget-conscious consumers. According to reports, codenamed “Redwood,” this vehicle will be built on Tesla's latest platform and will be 15% smaller than the Model 3, with significantly reduced manufacturing costs.
GM’s Cruise Strategy Shift
General Motors has decided to stop funding its Cruise robotaxi project, opting instead to integrate the unit into its technical teams. This choice, which has received some backlash from Cruise co-founder Kyle Vogt, reflects GM's strategic aim to concentrate on delivering superior driving experiences efficiently. This transition comes as the robotaxi market experiences heightened competition.
Lucid's Gravity SUV Range
Lucid Motors recently announced that its Gravity SUV has achieved an official EPA range estimate of up to 450 miles, outperforming the Tesla Model X’s range of 329 miles. However, the Gravity still falls short of the 512 miles offered by Lucid’s Air sedan. This new range estimate positions Gravity as a strong player in the electric SUV market.
BMW’s FSD Praise Retracted
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG initially lauded Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system on social media, describing it as “very impressive.” Surprisingly, the post was deleted shortly thereafter, leaving many puzzled. This unexpected retraction raises questions about a potential licensing agreement between the two automotive companies.
In summary, this past weekend saw a flurry of significant updates from top players in the tech and automotive industries. Innovations at SpaceX and upcoming launches from Tesla indicate a vibrant future ahead, while companies like GM and Lucid Motors continue to adapt in a competitive landscape.
Elon, SpaceX, Tesla, GM, Lucid, Automotive