When it comes to Tesla, most media outlets report on sales declines, Elon Musk's politics, and upcoming robotaxis. But there's a lot going on beneath the surface. We've rounded up ten lesser-known stories that have made their mark on the Tesla world in recent weeks, but have been overshadowed by political and financial drama. These are Tesla News 8/2025
Tesla News! August 2025. The world of Tesla is back to its usual buzz when Elon Musk has time to tweet (sorry Elon, I know, that's called "posting on X" now). Over the past week, the media has unearthed some surprising and less glamorous details that official Tesla channels may not be too happy to promote. So let's take a look at all the juicy news that Tesla would rather keep quiet.
Big European sales drop – Tesla out of favor with customers?
Registrations of new Tesla vehicles in Europe fell sharply in July. In Sweden, by as much as 86 %, Denmark (−52 %), France (−27 %), the Netherlands (−62 %) and Belgium (−58 %). Italians and Portuguese also don't show love. On the other hand, Norwegians (+83 %) and Spaniards (+27 %) remain enthusiastic.
The reason? Reuters says it's partly a customer backlash to Musk's political statements and partly a result of tough European rules on autonomous driving. Elon claims that Europeans lack the "American experience." You know, the experience where the car drives itself. Well, almost. These are the Tesla innovations Musk would rather bury.
The digital service record you've always dreamed of
Tesla quietly introduced a feature to the app in August Maintenance Summary, which allows for digital recording of all maintenance interventions. Drivers now have a complete overview of their vehicle's service history in the app (Controls > Service), including details such as HEPA filter or tire replacement. The vehicle automatically records the mileage and dates of interventions, making it much easier for you to sell your car. If things have been great so far - Tesla's innovations - they welcome this kind of record.
Grok – an AI that will listen to you, but can't drive yet
One of the most important – in the list – Tesla innovations! Discover Grok, Tesla's AI assistant from xAI. The August 2025.26 update brought the integration of this large language model into Tesla vehicles. It has now been leaked that Grok has some interesting limitations - for example, that it is not allowed to control any vehicle functions and that it must remain a friendly conversationalist, preferring to avoid too detailed information about the location unless the driver directly asks. Judging by all this, Grok is unlikely to replace a partner, but it will provide pleasant conversations during boring drives.
Soft comfort from Australia
Tesla has officially launched a headrest pillow and lumbar cushion for the Model 3 and Y in Australia. Both pillows are made from DuPont synthetic leather and bio-cotton, providing a soft and sustainable feel. The pillows will be available in other markets in the coming months.
Carbon elegance for the dashboard
For owners of a renovated Model 3 (2024+) Tesla now offers a sleek carbon fiber “Dashboard Décor Wing.” The upgrade is available at Tesla service centers for around $300. So if you want your Tesla to look like a vehicle from a James Bond movie, this is the right accessory for you.
LED strip for your "frunk"
For the Model 3 and Model Y (2020-2024), Tesla introduced an official LED light strip for the front trunk in August. It costs around $100 and is quick and easy to install. Drivers of newer models (2025+) will receive their version later this year.
AI6 – a new chip that will finally speak the same language as Dojo
In August, we also learned about the arrival of the new AI6 chip, which Tesla will develop together with Samsung in a new factory in Texas. The AI6 will use the same architecture as the Dojo supercomputer and will eliminate the current “dual platform problem” by using the same technology for both learning and driving. Musk personally promises to frequently visit the factory and actively participate in development to get the chip on the road as soon as possible.
Dynamic pricing for robo-taxis in Austin – Tesla News
Tesla has launched a dynamic pricing robotaxi service in Austin. In August, you could travel in Austin for about $1.25 per mile, which is much cheaper than competitors (Waymo, Uber). It's clear that Musk is planning to aggressively expand this service, as the prices are very competitive.
Austin: the robotaxi area is growing like mushrooms after the rain
Tesla expanded its Austin robotaxi service in August. At 85 square miles, the area is now more than four times larger than its original size. The company is also considering expanding the service to Arizona, Florida and other parts of Texas.
Model Y E41 – an affordable version that's already turning gray hairs in Fremont
Tesla is expected to begin selling a more affordable Model Y, known as “Project E41,” in the fourth quarter of 2025. However, production is slowing due to production line overhaul issues and pressure from expiring U.S. tax breaks. The base model will be less luxurious and should cost around $35,990—an ambitious goal that remains largely theoretical for now.
Model YL – for those who need more space
A new one appeared in the Chinese ministry's catalog in August Model Y L. This version will have six seats, a longer wheelbase, and the ability to fold the seats completely flat, giving you plenty of space for luggage or even sleeping if you ever run out of hotel funds. This could be an interesting competitor to the classic family MPV.
$29 billion prize for Musk
Tesla has granted its CEO Elon Musk $29 billion in stock in a new deal, a move that aims to keep the controversial billionaire at the helm of the company during a crucial transition from traditional car manufacturing to the world of robo-taxis and humanoid robots. Tesla described the “interim package” of 96 million shares as an initial, “goodwill” payment to fulfill Musk’s massive 2018 bonus payment worth more than $50 billion, which was overturned last year by a court in the US state of Delaware.
July and August brought much more than just sales declines and political controversy for Tesla. These under-the-radar stories show how Tesla is steadily preparing the future of electric mobility with small but significant improvements, technological innovations, and new product strategies, while at the same time keeping a man who is not short of controversy at the helm of the company until 2027. The future of electric driving is clearly still very interesting – at least as long as Elon Musk is leading it.
