Tesla Model Y Performance Upgraded with AMD Ryzen Processor

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Tesla Model Y Performance in China 2.1 Upgrade to AMD Ryzen Processor 2.2 Expansion in China
3. President Biden's Praise of GM 3.1 Tesla's Exclusion 3.2 GM's Actual EV Leadership
4. SpaceX Partnership with Fight for Peace in Brazil 4.1 Providing Free Internet 4.2 Fight for Peace's Mission 4.3 Starlink's Equipment and Services 4.4 Partnership with Brazilian Government
5. Canada X Prize Winners 5.1 University of Toronto's Carbon Capture Method 5.2 The Equestra Team's Electrochemical Process
6. Carbon Ceramic Brakes for Tesla Model S 6.1 Features of the Brake Kit 6.2 Compatibility and Availability

Tesla Model Y Performance in China

Tesla continues to make strides in the Chinese market with the introduction of the upgraded Model Y Performance. This electric SUV now comes equipped with the AMD Ryzen processor, a significant improvement over the Intel Atom processor found in previous models. The integration of the AMD Ryzen processor not only enhances the vehicle's infotainment system but also provides up to 10 teraflops of processing power, comparable to the latest home gaming consoles like the PlayStation 5. This upgrade demonstrates Tesla's commitment to delivering cutting-edge technology to its customers in China.

Upgrade to AMD Ryzen Processor

The inclusion of the AMD Ryzen processor in the Model Y Performance is a result of Tesla's partnership with AMD. Earlier this year, AMD announced its collaboration with Tesla to incorporate its latest processors and GPUs in the refresh models of the Model S and Model X. The powerful AMD equipment significantly boosts the processing capabilities of Tesla's flagship electric cars, ensuring a seamless user experience and setting new standards in the electric vehicle industry.

Expansion in China

The addition of the AMD Ryzen processor to the Model Y Performance is a testament to Tesla's expansion efforts in China. As the world's largest automotive market, China presents immense growth opportunities for Tesla. By continuously updating and improving their vehicles, Tesla aims to solidify its presence and cater to the demands of Chinese consumers. It is expected that the new processors will be gradually implemented in all Model Y Performance units manufactured at Tesla's factory in Fremont.

President Biden's Praise of GM

Amidst the push for electric vehicles, President Joe Biden recently praised General Motors (GM) for its commitment to electrification. During an event at the White House involving US automakers, President Biden commended GM CEO Mary Barra for leading the company's electric vehicle efforts. However, notable by its absence from the event was Tesla, a pioneer in the electric vehicle industry.

Tesla's Exclusion

Tesla's omission from the event raised eyebrows, especially considering the company's significant contributions to the electric vehicle market. As a union-free automaker, Tesla's absence was particularly noticeable since the event involved organized labor, an influential ally of President Biden. The exclusion of Tesla from such events has sparked discussions about the company's relationship with unions and its impact on its operations in the United States.

GM's Actual EV Leadership

While President Biden praised GM for its commitment to electric vehicles, the reality suggests a different narrative. Currently, GM's offerings in the fully electric segment in the United States are limited to the Chevy Volt hatchback and utility vehicles. Unfortunately, both models have faced recalls due to battery fire risks, leading to production halts and replacements of defective batteries. GM's EV production has been less significant than previously announced, casting doubt on its actual leadership in the electric vehicle space.

SpaceX Partnership with Fight for Peace in Brazil

SpaceX, the aerospace company founded by Elon Musk, has joined forces with the global non-profit organization Fight for Peace to deliver free high-speed internet to a low-income community in Brazil. Fight for Peace focuses on empowering underprivileged communities affected by crime and violence, with a particular emphasis on education and youth development.

Providing Free Internet

Through SpaceX's Starlink division, the partnership aims to provide free internet access to the community. Starlink plans to deliver user terminals to the community, which can easily connect to SpaceX's satellite constellation in low Earth orbit. Users simply need to plug in the terminal and point the antenna towards the sky to receive internet data from the satellites. Wi-Fi routers complement the antenna, ensuring wireless connectivity within the community.

Fight for Peace's Mission

Fight for Peace has been working tirelessly to support young individuals in underprivileged areas, giving them access to education and opportunities to reach their full potential. The partnership with SpaceX aligns with their mission, as access to the internet plays a crucial role in bridging the digital divide and empowering communities with knowledge and resources. This initiative is expected to make a significant positive impact on the lives of residents in the low-income community in Brazil.

Starlink's Equipment and Services

To facilitate the provision of high-speed internet, Starlink has set up a ground station in Brazil to communicate with the satellites in orbit. This ground station will enable the delivery of seamless and reliable internet services to the community. Starlink's user terminals are easy to install, requiring a clear line of sight to the sky for optimal performance. With coverage extending to hard-to-reach regions, Starlink aims to uplift rural and remote areas by connecting them to the global digital landscape.

Partnership with Brazilian Government

SpaceX's commitment to Brazil goes beyond bridging the digital divide. Elon Musk, together with SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell, met with Brazilian Minister of Communications Fábio Faria to discuss further collaborations. The Brazilian government aims to leverage SpaceX's Starlink technology in various areas, including connecting rural schools and combating illegal fires and deforestation in the Amazon rainforest. This partnership signals a promising step towards technological advancements and environmental conservation in Brazil.

Canada X Prize Winners

The University of Toronto team has emerged as a winner of the $250,000 X Prize award, funded by Elon Musk. The team, comprised of postgraduate engineering students, has been recognized for their innovative approach to carbon capture from the atmosphere using electricity.

University of Toronto's Carbon Capture Method

The University of Toronto's team, named Equestra, has developed a method that captures and isolates carbon dioxide, contributing to a net reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Traditional carbon capture processes convert carbon dioxide into a solid salt and then reheat the salt to release carbon dioxide gas. However, this heating step is costly and energy-intensive.

The Equestra Team's Electrochemical Process

The Equestra team's approach utilizes an electrochemical process to recover carbon, eliminating the need for the energy-intensive heating process. The team plans to reinvest the $250,000 prize into lab equipment to optimize and speed up the chemical reaction. Their innovative method has qualified them as one of the finalists in the X Prize's Carbon Removal Student Competition, with a chance to secure a $1 million grant.

Carbon Ceramic Brakes for Tesla Model S

Tesla is set to introduce a new optional upgrade for the Model S, offering carbon ceramic brakes for enhanced performance and durability. This brake kit, priced at approximately $20,000, is designed to cater to customers seeking the ultimate driving experience.

Features of the Brake Kit

The carbon ceramic brake kit includes state-of-the-art carbon silicone carbide rotors known for their high-temperature durability and superior heat management capabilities. The one-piece forged calipers, accompanied by high-performance pads and high-temperature brake fluid, ensure optimal braking performance even in demanding driving conditions. The Package is compatible with Model S vehicles equipped with 21-inch wheels and is expected to be available by mid-2022.