3 ms·

So instead of figuring out "precision" welding (maybe SpaceX could have helped out?), Musk used pounds instead of kg or tons in order to implement "Giga"presses

by hef19898 4y ago

So instead of figuring out "precision" welding (maybe SpaceX could have helped out?), Musk used pounds instead of kg or tons in order to implement "Giga"presses? Well, at least the manufacturing inexperienced Tesla crowd has something new to rave about... Still no < 35k Model 3 so.

toomuchtodo 4y ago
They found a cheaper, faster, more efficient way to make structural components. SpaceX already shared with Tesla how to friction stir weld [1] (and that technique is still used currently [2]), but that is not as fast as stamping out body components. Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. There is no extra credit for making your manufacturing process more complex than necessary (if you want to show off, fire your EV into space). Tesla's manufacturing ramp rate is primarily a function of how fast the org can improve the speed and process at which atoms travel through the manufacturing process, feedstock to final product. [1] https://electrek.co/2015/05/24/spacex-transferred-novel-welding-techniques-and-equipment-to-tesla-motors/ https://electrek.co/2015/05/24/spacex-transferred-novel-weld... [2] https://www.teslarati.com/tesla-model-y-spacex-welding-technique-analysis-video/ https://www.teslarati.com/tesla-model-y-spacex-welding-techn...
- hef19898 4y ago
  Tesla tried full automation, which didn't work. Now they use pressed parts limiting the use of platform startegies, which enable all other manufacturers to produce a multitude of models, including loe cost ones, using the same tooling, parts and R&D. I guess we will see were that ends.
fragmede 4y ago
Why would, or should a business decide to make less money selling a cheaper version of a product when demand for the more expense (and hence more profitable) product shows no sign of waning? Don't get me wrong, I'd love to buy a $35,000 Model 3, but it makes no business sense, especially considering the fact that the average new car cost is something like $44k these days.
- zaroth 4y ago
  Just food for thought… $35k in Feb 2019 when Tesla announced the “$35k Model 3” is now just under $42k simply adjusted for inflation.

toomuchtodo 4y ago

They found a cheaper, faster, more efficient way to make structural components. SpaceX already shared with Tesla how to friction stir weld [1] (and that technique is still used currently [2]), but that is not as fast as stamping out body components. Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. There is no extra credit for making your manufacturing process more complex than necessary (if you want to show off, fire your EV into space). Tesla's manufacturing ramp rate is primarily a function of how fast the org can improve the speed and process at which atoms travel through the manufacturing process, feedstock to final product. [1] https://electrek.co/2015/05/24/spacex-transferred-novel-welding-techniques-and-equipment-to-tesla-motors/ https://electrek.co/2015/05/24/spacex-transferred-novel-weld... [2] https://www.teslarati.com/tesla-model-y-spacex-welding-technique-analysis-video/ https://www.teslarati.com/tesla-model-y-spacex-welding-techn...

hef19898 4y ago
Tesla tried full automation, which didn't work. Now they use pressed parts limiting the use of platform startegies, which enable all other manufacturers to produce a multitude of models, including loe cost ones, using the same tooling, parts and R&D. I guess we will see were that ends.

fragmede 4y ago

Why would, or should a business decide to make less money selling a cheaper version of a product when demand for the more expense (and hence more profitable) product shows no sign of waning? Don't get me wrong, I'd love to buy a $35,000 Model 3, but it makes no business sense, especially considering the fact that the average new car cost is something like $44k these days.

zaroth 4y ago
Just food for thought… $35k in Feb 2019 when Tesla announced the “$35k Model 3” is now just under $42k simply adjusted for inflation.