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Tesla Full Self-Driving Beta Hero

Tesla has released the details about its planned ‘Robotaxi’ launch in Austin, Texas, this weekend, and it’s even worse than we thought. There’s going to be a “safety monitor” in the front seat.

Over the last few weeks, we have been discussing how Tesla’s planned launch of a “Robotaxi” service was a game of smoke and mirrors, meant to improve the optics of the automaker’s self-driving efforts as Waymo emerges as a clear leader.

The planned service is a geo-fenced and teleoperation-supported ride-hailing service operated by a small internal fleet, which is completely different from Tesla’s long-promised unsupervised self-driving in consumer vehicles through its “Full Self-Driving program.”

Furthermore, we have been reported on Tesla’s limited testing in Austin, which CEO Elon Musk claimed involved “no driver”, but test vehicles have all been spotted with Tesla employees in the front passenger seats with access to buttons to stop the car or have it pull over.

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In comparison, Waymo tested its vehicles for 6 months with a safety driver in the car and 6 months without a safety driver in the car in Austin before launching its commercial service earlier this year.

Now, Tesla has sent invitations to some known pro-Tesla influencers, primarily on Musk’s X social media platform, to experience the launch of the Robotaxi service this weekend.

The invitations confirm extreme limitations in the service, with the most significant one being the presence of a “safety monitor” in the passenger seat.

Here are the other requirements listed:

  • You must agree to Terms of Service, Rider Rules, Privacy Notice, and Service Animal Policy.
  • You must have a credit/debit card on file.
  • You can request a ride via the app from 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM, within the geofenced area (excluding airports).
  • Operational hours and geofence details are available in the app and may change.
  • Service may be limited or unavailable in inclement weather.
  • Only the invited user may download and use the Robotaxi app.
  • Participants must be courteous and respectful; unsafe or disrespectful behavior may lead to termination.
  • Riders should provide a star rating and feedback in the app.
  • Photos and videos of the experience are permitted.
  • Smoking, vaping, consuming alcohol, and using drugs are not permitted inside the Robotaxi.
  • Robotaxi may not be used in connection with any crime or to transport weapons or illegal/hazardous materials (e.g., flammable or combustible liquids).
  • Surveillance, reverse engineering, or recording of proprietary Robotaxi components or features is strictly prohibited.
  • Tesla may suspend or terminate access if:
    • You violate any of these rules.
    • You post or share content on social media that depicts misuse or violations inside the Robotaxi.

In short, Tesla’s “Robotaxi” service is going to launch with the supervision of Tesla employees in the front seat at all times. It’s limited to 6 am to 12 am and it doesn’t work in “inclement weather.

Electrek’s Take

Again, like I repeatedly said, this is all about optics. Tesla is just trying to get a win and say that it “launched its robotaxi on time in June” when this is basically Tesla’s public FSD with the supervising driver being moved to the passenger seat.

At least it’s going to be safer than if Tesla went without it, but it clearly shows that Tesla is falling far behind Waymo and the competition when it comes to self-driving.

The main thing that people like about Waymo and there are even willing to pay more than Uber is the fact that there’s no one else in the car.

This simply won’t scale. Tesla has yet to solve self-driving. It needs to focus on that instead of appearences.

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Environment

Navee ST3 Pro e-scooter back at $760 low, Bluetti AC180 350W solar bundle at $902 low, Tenways e-bike bundles up to $907 off, more

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1 hour ago

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June 20, 2025

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Navee ST3 Pro e-scooter back at 0 low, Bluetti AC180 350W solar bundle at 2 low, Tenways e-bike bundles up to 7 off, more

Closing out this week’s Green Deals is Navee’s Independence Day Sale with up to 30% being taken off six e-scooters, including the new flagship ST3 Pro Electric Scooter that is back at its $760 low. There are also the continued Bluetti Father’s Day Sale offers we’ve rounded up that will last through the weekend, which has returned the AC180 Solar Generator Bundle with a 350W panel back to its $902 low for the second time, among others. Tenways has launched its 4th of July Sale with up to $907 in e-bike savings, which has brought the costs on its CGO600 Pro e-bikes lower than we’ve seen since March at $1,499. From there, we have two tool discounts: one on the Greenworks 82V 18-inch Cordless Commercial Chainsaw with 4.0Ah and 2.5Ah batteries at a new $400 low, and the other dropping Worx’s 12A Trivac 3-in-1 Electric Corded Leaf Blower/Mulcher/Vacuum to $69. Plus, there’s all the rest of the hangover Green Deals in the links at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s free center cargo console promotion on the new Rad Power RadRunner Plus and Max e-bikes, and more.

Head below for other New Green Deals we’ve found today and, of course, Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals. Also, check out the new Electrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories.

Navee’s Independence Day Sale returns the new ST3 Pro electric scooter with Apple Find My to a $760 low

Navee has launched its Independence Day Sale running through July 7, with up to 30% off six e-scooter models, including a returning low on the new flagship ST3 Pro Electric Scooter for $759.99 shipped, after using the on-page promo code FREEDOM20 at checkout. Normally priced at $950 these days since falling from its original $1,299 MSRP after launching in March, we’ve only seen the price come down to $899 before last month gave us the first drop to the $760 low. That low price is coming back around today, saving you $190 off the tag and beating out its Amazon pricing by $140. Head below for more on this e-scooter and the others seeing discounts.

The new Navee flagship ST3 Pro electric scooter cruises into view with a 600W motor (1,350 peak) and a 12.75Ah battery that provides up to 46.6 miles of travel on a full charge, while also maxing out at 25 MPH speeds. On top of this, the motor peaks to climb inclines up to 28% steep, which beats out many competitors. You’re ride will be especially smooth thanks to the new automotive-grade damping arm suspension system that is made up of four polymer arms – plus, there’s even Apple Find My inclusion for extra peace of mind.

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Those aren’t the only features I could go on about for the ST3 Pro electric scooter, as there’s also a triple-braking system of hydraulic disc brakes, a drum brake, and an eABS brake that delivers regenerative braking functionality to extend travels by recycling energy as you slow or stop. You’ll also be getting self-healing tires to prevent the ride from prematurely ending, a traction control system for increased stability, an auto-on headlight, as well as a brake lighting taillight, integrated turn signals, the usual folding frame, and a 3.6-inch LED display. What’s more, there is ambient lighting under its footboard that have 15 different mode options, and even remote smart controls through its companion app, including manual and automatic locking of its systems, and more.

Navee’s Independence Day Sale e-scooter deals (use on-page codes):

  • V40N Electric Scooter: $400 (Reg. $500) | matched at Amazon
    • 20 MPH for up to 25 miles
    • Smart controls, hidden AirTag holder, customizable lighting, regen brakes, and more
  • GT3 Electric Scooter (new model): $440 (Reg. $550) | $30 more at Amazon
    • 20 MPH for up to 31 miles
    • Apple Find My, smart locking, quad shock absorption, dual braking, and more.
  • S40 Electric Scooter: $490 (Reg. $700) | $160 more at Amazon
    • 20 MPH for up to 25 miles
    • Apple Find My, smart controls, ShockMaster suspension, regen brakes, and more.
  • GT3 Pro Electric Scooter (new model): $520 (Reg. $650) | $97 more at Amazon
    • 20 MPH for up to 37.3 miles
    • Apple Find My, smart locking, quad shock absorption, dual braking, and more.
  • ST3 Electric Scooter (new model): $680 (Reg. $850) | $58 more at Amazon
    • 25 MPH for up to 37.3 miles
    • Apple Find My, smart locking, damping arm suspension, triple braking, and more.
  • ST3 Pro Electric Scooter (new model): $760 (Reg. $950) | $140 more at Amazon
    • 25 MPH for up to 46.6 miles
    • Apple Find My, smart locking, damping arm suspension, triple braking, and more.
Bluetti AC180 portable power station

Bluetti’s AC180 solar generator bundle with a 350W panel powers summer adventures for a $902 low

Bluetti’s Father’s Day Sale is continuing through the rest of the weekend with up to 55% discounts and extra savings. Alongside the new low price we spotted among the larger appliance/home backup offers, there’s quite a few solid options for smaller setups that cover road trips and outdoor adventures, like Bluetti’s AC180 Solar Generator Bundle with a 350W panel for $901.55 shipped, after using the sitewide code AFF5OFF at checkout for an additional 5% off. This package would normally fetch $1,499 at full price, which we’ve been seeing come down to $949 regularly during sales, only beaten out by this all-time low price that first appeared during the brand’s Earth Day sale in April. You’re looking at a second chance for the best price we have tracked, which saves you $597 off the going rate and beats its Amazon pricing by $47. Head below for more on this unit and the other deals we’ve rounded up for you.

The Bluetti AC180 power station is one of the brand’s most popular options to keep devices and appliances running during camping trips, road trips, and even during emergencies. It comes with a 1,152Wh LiFePO4 battery that dishes out a steady stream of power at up to 1,800W normally, while surging up to 2,700W when connected to hungrier appliances. It boasts 11 output port options, which includes a 15W wireless charging pad alongside four ACs, four USB-As, one USB-C, and one DC.

Plugging it into a wall outlet can get the battery back to 80% in 45 minutes, or by connecting up to its max 500W solar input, you can recharge in 2.8 to 3.3 hours via the sun, with there also being the options for car port or generator power. The brand rates it for 3,500+ life cycles, so you could charge and discharge it every day for over nine and a half years, or recharge it every few months and keep it stored away for emergency usage for even longer.

***Note: The extra savings have not been added into the prices below, so be sure to use the code AFF5OFF at checkout to score an additional 5% savings and the best deals possible.

Bluetti’s other deals for powering outdoor adventures:

Bluetti’s road trip bundle deals:

You can browse Bluetti’s entire Father’s Day Sale lineup on the landing page here, which will only be around through June 22, and don’t forget about the home backup deals we’ve already covered here.

Tenways CGO600 Pro e-bike

Tenways’ 4th of July Sale takes $600 off e-bike bundles + additional $200 when buying two – all starting from $1,499

Tenways has launched its 4th of July Sale that is taking up to $600 off its e-bikes and offering $200 in additional savings when purchasing two models together. Among the offers this time around, we spotted the price coming lower than we’ve seen since March on the CGO600 Pro e-bikes for $1,499 shipped with $118 in free gear for both the chain-drive and belt-drive variants. Both models normally go for $1,899 at full price, which we’ve seen brought down as low as $1,299 for the chain-drive model and $1,399 for the belt-drive. Since March, they’ve been keeping above $1,599, but this sale is cutting $400 off the tags ($518 in total savings), landing them back at the second and third-lowest pricing we have tracked.

Perfect for urban commuters who enjoy active cycling, the Tenways CGO600 Pro e-bikes weigh just 37 pounds making them easy to manage up and down stairs, stoops, and the like. There’s no throttle for pure electric riding, with them instead providing four PAS levels supported by a torque sensor. The 350W rear hub motor pairs with a 360Wh battery to help you reach top speeds of 20 MPH for up to 53 miles on a single charge.

The main choice here is between the Gates carbon belt drive for quieter performance or its newer 8-speed variant with a Shimano derailleur and newer C9 350W motor that offers more flexible riding. Aside from that, you’ll also be getting puncture-proof tires that combat nails and other debris in the streets, Tektro dual-piston hydraulic brakes for stopping power, as well as LED lighting, internally routed cables, and an OLED screen for all your setting adjustments.

Tenways’ other 4th of July e-bike deals:

  • AGO X Step-Over Mid-Drive All-Terrain e-bike: $1,899 (Reg. $2,499)
    • 20 MPH for up to 62 miles
    • Shimano 10-speed drivetrain
    • comes with $307 in free gear
  • AGO T Step-Thru Premium e-bike: $2,399 (Reg. $2,699)
    • 20 MPH for up to 62 miles
    • Enviolo stepless shifting hub
    • comes with $178 in free gear + free front carrier ($50 value)
Greenworks 82V 18-inch cordless commercial chainsaw

Greenworks’ 82V 18-inch commercial cordless chainsaw with 4.0Ah and 2.5Ah batteries hits new $400 low

Amazon is offering a solid bundle opportunity on its Greenworks 82V 18-inch Commercial-Grade Cordless Chainsaw that comes with 4.0Ah and 2.5Ah batteries and a dual-port rapid charger at $399.98 shipped. Normally, you’d have to shell out $600 buying these models separately in their standard packages, which we’ve seen brought down as low as $516 before today. Not only is this a new all-time low price we’re tracking, saving you $200 off their usual rates, but the bundle is also coming in at the same price as the standard one-battery package, meaning you’re getting the $200 2.5Ah battery for free.

Part of Greenworks’ commercial series of tools for professional landscaping and groundskeeping, this 82V 18-inch chainsaw can make up to 210 cuts on a single charge of the 4.0Ah battery, which can be extended thanks to the additional battery in the bundle. The 2.7kW brushless direct-drive motor brings the equivalent of a 55cc gas motor to the equation, able to reach up to 13,000 RPM max speeds. There’s an automatic oiler to keep things lubricated and running smoothly, as well as a flip-up gauge for it that lets you see how much oil is in the tank, a mechanical chain brake, and more.

Worx 12A Trivac blower/mulcher/vacuum

Blow, collect, or mulch yard debris with Worx’s 12A corded Trivac at $69

Amazon is offering the Worx WG509 12A Trivac 3-in-1 Electric Corded Leaf Blower/Mulcher/Vacuum for $69 shipped. This legacy tool would normally run you $100 at full price, which we’ve mostly seen keeping above $79 throughout 2025. Today’s deal is bringing the costs down lower thanks to the $31 markdown we’re getting here, dropping things down among some of its lowest prices – just $9 above the all-time low that we haven’t seen reappear for quite some time.

When doing any outdoor work – especially in the heat of summer – it’s always best to go by the phrase “working smarter, not harder” and this 3-in-1 Worx Trivac definitely exudes that credo with its blowing, collecting, and/or mulching functionality. When put into its standard blower settings, it can produce up to 210 MPH airflow, while the included bag allows for the collection of debris at a flip of a switch. There’s also the two-stage metal impeller/shredder blades for any mulching needs, which the brand claims to “take 18 bags worth of leaves and chops it down into one.” It comes lightweight at just 10 pounds so anyone of any size can use it, with an angled collection nozzle to help reach under patio furniture and other low-lying areas.

If you’re only looking for a reliable means to mulch the leaves around your yard at much faster rates, Worx’s 13A Electric Leaf Mulcher makes a great companion for the job at $139.99 shipped, down from $190. By attaching a regular bag underneath the device, you can mulch leaves at a speed of 53 gallons per minute for easy collection, with the brand promising to condense “11 bags down into 1.”

Best Spring EV deals!

Best new Green Deals landing this week

The savings this week are also continuing to a collection of other markdowns. To the same tune as the offers above, these all help you take a more energy-conscious approach to your routine. Winter means you can lock in even better off-season price cuts on electric tools for the lawn while saving on EVs and tons of other gear.

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Environment

Hyundai’s new electric SUV leaks in China, revealing new battery details and more

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2 hours ago

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June 20, 2025

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Hyundai's new electric SUV leaks in China, revealing new battery details and more

Hyundai's-new-electric-SUV

Hyundai is gearing up to launch what could be its most important EV in China to date. The Elexio, referred to as the Chinese version of Hyundai’s popular IONIQ 5 electric SUV, is expected to play a key role in the company’s comeback efforts in China. Ahead of its official launch later this year, we are learning a few new details.

Hyundai’s new Elexio electric SUV is launching in China

After unveiling the Elexio last month in Shanghai, Hyundai called China a “must-fight place.” Like most global OEMs, Hyundai is struggling to keep pace with low-cost Chinese EVs.

Hyundai said its new electric SUV opens “a new starting point for the transformation from traditional fuel vehicle giant to electrification.”

The Elexio is built by Hyundai’s joint venture with BAIC, Beijing Hyundai. Although it’s dubbed the IONIQ 5 of China, the electric SUV is tailored to buyers in the country with advanced new tech and features.

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Based on the E-GMP platform, the same one underpinning its IONIQ series, Hyundai claims the Elexio has a CLTC driving range of 435 miles (700 km). With its 800V architecture, it can also recharge from 30% to 80% in 27 minutes.

Hyundai-new-electric-SUV
Hyundai's-new-electric-SUV

After applying for a sales license, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) published new info, giving us a closer look at Hyundai’s latest EV.

The Elexio measures 4,615 mm in length, 1,875 mm in width, and 1,673 mm in height, or slightly smaller than the Tesla Model Y.

It will be available in FWD and AWD powertrain options. The single-motor version is rated for an output of up to 160 kW (214 hp), while the dual-motor variant achieves a combined maximum output of 233 kW (312 hp).

Hyundai’s new electric SUV will use an LFP battery pack from BYD’s FinDream, but MIIT didn’t reveal the capacity or range.

According to CarNewsChina, Hyundai is expected to launch the Elexio in China in the third quarter with prices starting at around 140,000 yuan ($19,500).

On June 13, the Elexio became Hyundai’s first vehicle to receive the “CCTA Charging Compatibility Verification Certificate” in China. The electric SUV was tested at over 500 AC and DC charging stations, achieving a 100% success rate.

Source: CarNewsChina, China MIIT

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Environment

Toyota’s hot $15,000 EV in China costs nearly $50K in this overseas market

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3 hours ago

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June 20, 2025

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Toyota's hot ,000 EV in China costs nearly K in this overseas market

Toyota's-$15,000-EV-overseas

Toyota’s most affordable EV, which starts at about $15,000 in China, may not be so cheap overseas. The Toyota bZ3X is launching in new markets at a price nearly three times the cost, starting at almost $50,000.

Toyota’s $15,000 EV is launching overseas

GAC Toyota, Toyota’s joint venture, launched the bZ3X in China this March, a new electric SUV aimed at younger families.

The bZ3X is Toyota’s “first 100,000 yuan-level pure electric SUV.” With prices starting at just 109,800 yuan ($15,000), the budget EV quickly became a hit in China.

Toyota’s electric SUV was the best-selling foreign-owned EV in China last month. With 4,344 models sold, the bZ3X outsold the Volkswagen ID.3 (4,217), Nissan N7 (3,034), BMW i3 (2,605), and VW ID.4 Crozz.

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Will it achieve the same level of success overseas? At over three times the cost, it may not be easy. Toyota’s $15,000 EV has officially launched in Ethiopia, with a retail price of around 6.3 million birr, or approximately $48,000.

The bZ3X is now available at select dealers in Addis Ababa, the country’s capital, offering a range of roughly 400 km (249 miles).

Toyota's-$15,000-EV-overseas
Toyota bZ3X electric SUV (Source: GAC-Toyota)

Although over 60% of new passenger cars registered in Ethiopia were electric last year, EV buyers face high import taxes and other costs. A 35% customs tax, an excise tax of up to 30%, a 15% VAT, a 10% surtax, and a 3% withholding tax make electric vehicles significantly more expensive.

In China, the electric SUV is available with two battery options: 50.03 kWh and 67.92 kWh. The former offers a CLTC driving range of 430 km (267 miles), while the latter provides a range of 610 km (379 miles).

Toyota's-$15,000-EV-overseas
Toyota bZ3X electric SUV (Source: GAC Toyota)

Buyers can choose from smart or non-smart driving models, which start at 109,800 yuan ($15,000) and 149,800 yuan ($20,500), respectively.

The interior is a significant upgrade from most Toyota vehicles we are accustomed to, featuring advanced new technology, including Momenta’s 5.0 smart driving system. Toyota claims the bZ3X has class-leading rear space at nearly 10 feet (3 meters) with all seats folded.

Toyota-bZ3X-EV-interior
Toyota-cheapest-EV-China-interior

Measuring 4,645 mm in length, 1,885 mm in width, and 1,625 mm in height, Toyota’s bZ3X is about the same size as BYD’s Atto 3 SUV, sold as the Yuan Plus in China.

After opening orders in March, GAC Toyota boasted that the bZ3X was “so popular that the server crashed” as orders surpassed 10,000 in under an hour.

Would you buy Toyota’s electric SUV in the US or Europe? It would likely cost at least double, or even more. At $50,000, you could almost buy Hyundai’s new three-row IONIQ 9. Let us know what you think tf the bZ3X in the comments below.

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