GM Unveils Energy Pass to Simplify EV Charging; Tesla Roadster Again 'Coming Soon'

In the latest episode of the 'Quick Charge' podcast, General Motors announced a new EV charging experience for its electric vehicles — while Tesla's long-awaited Roadster sports car once again surfaced with a 'coming soon' announcement — the ninth such statement in nearly a decade.

GM Rolls Out Dual Tech: No App, No Payment Hassle

General Motors has officially launched two new technologies — 'Energy Pass' and 'Plug and Charge' — designed to significantly lower the charging barrier for owners of Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC battery-electric vehicles. According to GM, when a vehicle connects to a third-party charger participating in the program, drivers no longer need to open a smartphone app, log in, link a payment method, or download additional software — simply plugging in the charging cable automatically identifies the vehicle and initiates charging.

Coverage depends on partner network rollout progress; GM has not yet disclosed specific supported brands or number of stations, nor clarified whether fees will be shared or if a subscription model applies.

SpaceX Chip Factory Shifts to Fossil Fuels, Sparks Debate

Meanwhile, SpaceX — led by Elon Musk — confirmed its first-phase $16.8 billion 'Terafab' superchip factory will rely on natural gas and other fossil fuels for power, rather than the solar-plus-storage setup previously expected from Tesla. This move stands in contrast to Tesla's own sustainability commitments Everus, prompting industry discussion about cross-business energy strategy consistency.

Is Roadster 'Really Coming Soon'? Ninth Delay Rumor Resurfaces

In a recent conversation with Jay Leno, Tesla's design lead reiterated that the all-new Roadster is 'very soon' entering production. Since its 2017 debut, the model has repeatedly pushed back launch timelines with phrases like 'deliveries next year' or 'production starting in months' — yet still hasn't revealed an official production date, price, or performance specs. It remains in concept validation and engineering development, with no confirmed production window.

Notably, this latest statement came without new official images, regulatory filings, or evidence of production-readiness — and no confirmation of certification completion in any market.