Tesla Hints at New Vehicle Launching on October 7, Potentially a $40,000 Model Y: TDS

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      Good morning and welcome to The Downshift, or TDS for short.

      Concise and straightforward, TDS compiles all the current automotive news from around the world into one convenient location. Each story is summarized in a single (sometimes lengthy) sentence with a link for those wanting more details.

      I'm back at it this morning after some unexpected scheduling changes last week. Big thanks to Adam and Andrew for stepping in during my absence.

      My first cup of coffee is gone, and I'm ready for the next one, so let’s dive in.

      🚘 What I’m driving: The scheduling changes were due to some back issues that kept me from driving much lately, but a V-8 truck is arriving today, and it looks like I'm back in the mix as the week begins.

      🔜 Over the weekend, Tesla's X account released a teaser video of something (possibly a wheel) featuring the date 10/7, followed by an image showcasing headlights that seem to match the more affordable Model Y variant teased by CEO Elon Musk and seen on public roads.

      👀 A Ford Everest SUV was seen with manufacturer license plates in Colorado for unknown reasons; this body-on-frame SUV, which shares its platform with the Ranger pickup and Bronco SUV and is sold in other global markets, would present a compelling challenge to the Toyota 4Runner in the U.S.

      🪦 BMW X4 production reportedly concluded on September 30.

      🧐 Fox Factory teased a seemingly lowered street-focused Ram 1500 equipped with a prominent lower front valence and wide, low-profile Toyo tires.

      💸 Volvo introduced a more budget-friendly single-motor extended-range EX30, reducing the model's price by $6,000.

      📉 Aston Martin has once again reduced its U.S. sales forecast, attributing this to tariffs, weak sales, and global challenges.

      📈 Stellantis is said to be planning a $10 billion investment in its U.S. revival strategy, which will include product updates and improvements to facilities.

      🛻 Stellantis has lobbied the Trump administration to either waive or reduce a potential 25% tariff on its heavy-duty trucks produced in Mexico, while Ford and GM have urged the administration to reject this request, arguing it would give Stellantis a competitive advantage and set a precedent for other automakers.

      🏁 Weekend Race Results:

      Formula 1 – George Russell claimed victory, but the notable highlight was McLaren clinching the 2025 F1 Constructors’ Championship.

      NASCAR Cup Series – Shane van Gisbergen from Trackhouse Racing won the Bank of America Roval 400.

      NASCAR Xfinity Series – Connor Zilisch of JR Motorsports secured the win at the Blue Cross NC 250.

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