Tesla’s week did not end on a high note with the company experiencing an unplanned outage. Some Tesla drivers complained on social media on Friday that they were locked out of their cars and that the company's phone app experienced a server-related fault. Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, tweeted late Friday night that the issues were being addressed and that the problem was due to network load.
Hundreds of Tesla drivers were locked out of their cars at the start of the weekend due to a problem with the company's mobile app, and scores of them vented their frustrations on social media.
However, the comments mirrored a long-held concern among drivers as automotive technology has advanced: that there may not be a solid backup if sophisticated computer systems fail or are unable to connect to the internet, thus turning a vehicle into one big brick.
But not all Tesla drivers completely rely on the app. Beyond the app, there is be a secondary method to get in or out of the vehicle by using the key fob; the trouble will emerge for drivers if they do not have it on hand.
The Tesla Key Fob
The Tesla Key Fob offers an alternate way to access your Tesla car. It is practical if you don’t use the Phone Key feature on your smartphone. The key fob must be paired with your Tesla using the touchscreen controls and the key fob battery lasts about 5 years before being needed to be replaced. Refer to your Tesla owner's manual to find more information on using your key fob.
Musk Addresses Employees on Music and Managers
The Tesla Technoking is known for his spontaneous communication to his staff and two emails have surfaced that the boss sent out in October.
The first claimed it was fine to listen to music at work while keeping one earphone out to listen for safety-related issues. When Musk gives orders, the second, tougher email reminds employees that they only have three options: argue why he's incorrect, request more information, or execute.
At the time that the emails went out, Tesla was having a busy month. It had announced its record third-quarter deliveries in spite of supply chain pressures, particularly the global chip shortage. The company had eventually released the long-awaited FSD (Full Self Driving) button, and Tesla lost a federal court case against Owen Diaz, a former employee. Diaz is set to receive an estimated $137 million from Tesla after he claimed to be subjected to a racially hostile work environment at Tesla’s Fremont Factory in California.
However, Musk seemed to retain his sense of humor and took the opportunity to address employees listening to music and set the management boundaries.
“The Music Email”
To: Everybody
From: Elon Musk
Subj. Music in the Factory
Just wanted to say that I very much support music in the factory, as well as any little touches that make work more enjoyable.
An associate just sent me a note asking if we could have one ear bud for music so the other ear can listen for safety-related issues. That sounds fine to me.
Also, ambient music from speakers is also totally cool so long as there is reasonable agreement among your colleagues as to the music choices.
If there are other things that you think would improve your day, please let me know. I care very much that you look forward to coming to work every day!
“The Management Email”
To: Everybody
From: Elon Musk
Subj. Please Note
If an email is sent from me with explicit directions, there are only three actions allowed by managers.
- Email me back to explain why what I said was incorrect. Sometimes, I’m just plain wrong!
- Request further clarification if what I said was ambiguous.
- Execute the directions.
If none of the above are done, that manager will be asked to resign immediately.
Thank you,
Elon
