Tesla Cybercab Opens New Chapter for the Company

Image: Tesla

Welcome to the weekly news roundup from Jowua. In today’s roundup, we look at the development of Megapack, FSD, Cybercab’s growth outlook, and more.

Tesla Megapacks Selected for 200 MW Battery Storage Project

Tesla Megapacks have once again received recognition as they have been selected for the 200-megawatt (MW) Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Arizona. The Flatland Energy Storage Project, led by Salt River Project (SRP) and Flatland Storage, will meet the state’s growing energy needs and advance the transition to renewable energy.

The 200 MW/800 MWh system will use Tesla’s Megapack 2XL batteries. It will provide enough energy to power approximately 45,000 homes for four hours during periods of peak electricity demand. The project is scheduled to be operational in 2025.

Full Self-Driving (FSD) for Cybertruck in Canada

Tesla made its first Cybertruck deliveries without Full Self-Driving (FSD) but rolled out the software for the electric pickups in the US several months ago. Last weekend, the company also began rolling out the software to Cybertruck owners in Canada.

California May Not Provide EV Tax Credit for Tesla Purchases

This week, California Governor Gavin Newsom unveiled a proposal to restore the state’s EV tax credit if President-elect Donald Trump’s new administration repeals the $7,500 federal tax credit. However, the new program excludes Tesla. The governor said the main goal is to create market conditions for more automakers.

Newsom’s proposal is highly controversial, as Tesla is the only automaker in the state. In addition to paying high taxes for its California operations, the company also employs about 22,000 people directly and tens of thousands more indirectly.

Cybercab Testing Continues at Giga Texas

Tesla’s recently unveiled autonomous vehicle, Cybercab, has once again been spotted testing at the Giga Texas factory. Factory progress monitor Joe Tegtmeyer/X shared footage from this week of Cybercab driving along a busy factory road, having to navigate around traffic. The vehicle was also seen undergoing additional testing to check for water intrusion.

Furthermore, Joe reported that a lot of manufacturing equipment has arrived at Giga Texas in recent months. Joe believes that this, coupled with active testing, points to an earlier start to production. Cybercab production is expected to begin in the second half of 2025, while Joe is more optimistic.