Tesla launches AI training centre in China. Tesla has taken a significant step toward expanding its autonomous driving technology in China, confirming that it is now operating a dedicated artificial intelligence (AI) training centre in the country. According to local media reports citing Tesla Vice President Grace Tao, the newly operational facility is focused on developing and refining assisted driving and AI applications specifically for Chinese roads. The new facility will allow Tesla to train its neural networks locally using Chinese driving data, enabling its vehicles to better understand the country's unique road conditions, traffic patterns, and regulations. Tao said the facility has enough computing capability to support Tesla's current development needs but did not reveal additional details such as its exact location or overall processing power. Tesla's decision to establish a dedicated AI training centre in China comes after CEO Elon Musk has highlighted the unique challenges the company faced in bringing FSD to the country. During Tesla's Q4 2024 earnings call, Musk described the situation as a "quandary," pointing to conflicting restrictions imposed by both Chinese and U.S. regulators that limited Tesla's ability to train its autonomous driving neural networks. One of the biggest obstacles was China's strict data privacy laws, which prevent Tesla from transferring video footage collected by its vehicles out of the country. That real-world driving data is essential for improving FSD's performance, as Tesla's neural networks rely heavily on millions of miles of recorded driving footage to learn and adapt. At the same time, Musk said U.S. regulations also complicated matters, as they restricted Tesla from conducting certain AI training activities within China. Now Tesla can get around both of those obstacles with the new AI training centre, whereby Tesla can improve its vehicles' ability to understand lane markings, traffic signals, and driving behaviors unique to Chinese roads. Tesla has already introduced an assisted driving system in China, initially launching the software under the name "Full Self-Driving Capability" before later renaming it "FSD Intelligent Assisted Driving" and eventually "Intelligent Assisted Driving." Last month, CEO Elon Musk suggested FSD approval in China could arrive as soon as this month, although subsequent reports indicated there was no confirmed timeline. Are you buying a Tesla? If you enjoy our content and we helped in your decision, use our referral link to get three months of Full Self-Driving (FSD).

Tesla launches Cybertruck vehicle-to-grid program in Texas. Credit: Tesla Tesla has launched a vehicle-to-grid (V2G) program in Texas, allowing eligible Cybertruck owners to send energy back to the grid during high-demand events and receive compensation on their utility bills. The initiative, dubbed Powershare Grid Support, was announced by the official Tesla Energy account on social media platform X. Texas' Cybertruck V2G program. In its post on X, Tesla Energy confirmed that vehicle-to-grid functionality is "coming soon," starting with select Texas markets. Under the new Powershare Grid Support program, owners of the Cybertruck equipped with Powershare home backup hardware can opt in through the Tesla app and participate in short-notice grid stress events. During these events, the Cybertruck automatically discharges excess energy back to the grid, supporting local utilities such as CenterPoint Energy and Oncor. In return, participants receive compensation in the form of bill credits. Tesla noted that the program is currently invitation-only as part of an early adopter rollout. The launch builds on the Cybertruck's existing Powershare capability, which allows the vehicle to provide up to 11.5 kW of power for home backup. Tesla added that the program is expected to expand to California next, with eligibility tied to utilities such as PG&E, SCE, and SDG&E. Powershare Grid Support. To participate in Texas, Cybertruck owners must live in areas served by CenterPoint Energy or Oncor, have Powershare equipment installed, enroll in the Tesla Electric Drive plan, and opt in through the Tesla app. Once enrolled, vehicles would be able to contribute power during high-demand events, helping stabilize the grid. Tesla noted that events may occur with little notice, so participants are encouraged to keep their Cybertrucks plugged in when at home and to manage their discharge limits based on personal needs. Compensation varies depending on the electricity plan, similar to how Powerwall owners in some regions have earned substantial credits by participating in Virtual Power Plant (VPP) programs. Simon is an experienced automotive reporter with a passion for electric cars and clean energy. Fascinated by the world envisioned by Elon Musk, he hopes to make it to Mars (at least as a tourist) someday. For stories or tips-or even to just say a simple hello-send a message to his email, [email protected] or his handle on X, @ResidentSponge.

Spinny partners with Tesla to simplify EV upgrades in india. * Home * News * Electric Vehicles * Electric Mobility * Spinny partners with Tesla to simplify EV upgrades... Spinny has partnered with Tesla to simplify the transition from ICE vehicles to electric cars for Indian consumers through a seamless exchange programme. Indian used-car marketplace Spinny has announced a strategic partnership with electric vehicle maker Tesla Inc. to simplify the transition from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to electric mobility for Indian consumers. Under the partnership, Spinny will become Tesla's preferred exchange partner and integrate its car-selling platform with Tesla ownership. The collaboration is part of Tesla's 'Switch and Save' programme, which aims to make EV adoption easier by streamlining the vehicle exchange process and improving accessibility to electric cars. The initiative offers attractive financial benefits to customers. Through Tesla's exchange programme, buyers can avail an exchange incentive of up to 3 lakh, along with a Spinny-exclusive bonus of up to 25,000 on delivery. Flexible financing options are also being offered, including monthly instalments starting at 49,000 with a down payment of 6 lakh. Tesla estimates that lower operating and maintenance costs could help EV owners save up to ₹20,000 per month compared to premium petrol or diesel vehicles. Additionally, customers purchasing the Tesla Model Y will receive a complimentary wall connector, enabling home charging at an estimated cost of around ₹1 per kilometre. Consumers can sell their existing vehicles through the Spinny app, at a Spinny Hub, or directly at a Tesla Centre. Commenting on the partnership, Spinny Founder and CEO Niraj Singh said the collaboration is aimed at making the shift to electric vehicles simple, seamless, and rewarding for Indian consumers. By addressing challenges related to vehicle valuation and documentation, Spinny and Tesla aim to build greater consumer confidence and tap into the significant growth potential of electric vehicle adoption in the Indian market.