Tesla Model X

Have you heard the story about the used-car dealer who removes the window tint from trade-ins – so he can sell window tint as an option to the next customer? Now it appears electric car maker Tesla is doing something similar but with optional electronic features. According to a report by CarScoops, Tesla is remotely deactivating features on some of its vehicles in the United States when they are sold from the original owner to a used-car buyer.

ANCAP has awarded the Tesla Model X, Audi A7 and Q8, and the MG HS five stars in its latest round of crash tests, but the Hyundai Venue city SUV fell short. The independent safety body called the all-electric Tesla Model X the "standout performer" among the five cars tested, record-equalling scores for adult occupant protection and safety assist. Meanwhile, the Audi A7 and Q8 demonstrated "good performance in all assessment areas".

Tesla owners will soon be able to stream Netflix and YouTube on their infotainment systems, but video streaming won't be available on the move... for now. As is his wont, Elon Musk announced the news on Twitter, telling his followers the "ability to stream YouTube & Netflix when car is stopped coming to your Tesla soon! Has an amazingly immersive, cinematic feel due to the comfy seats & surround sound audio".

Tesla has used new electric motors to extend the range of its Model S and Model X Long Range variants, which can now cover 595km and 523km on the EPA test cycle respectively. That's up from 540km in the Model S. It's a handy upgrade, especially when you consider the 100kWh battery still holds the same amount of energy. According to the company, the extra range comes from better cooling, lubrication and bearings, along with better gear designs.

Tesla has added two new software features to the Model S, X and 3, thanks to one of its over-the-air updates. The first is Sentry Mode, designed to deter potential thieves. If someone leans on a car with Sentry activated, the car switches into an 'Alert' state and shows a message on the central touchscreen, warning the potential thief the car's cameras are turned on.