Tesla Acronyms, Abbreviations, and Terms Explained

Welcome to the world of Tesla, or WTTWOT in Tesla World Acronyms (TWA) language! As you navigate through information about your awaited Tesla purchase or engage in conversations at your first charging station, you’ll encounter a unique lexicon. You might be familiar with common acronyms like EV (Electric Vehicle) and ICE (Internal Combustion Engine), but if you want to distinguish between SCs and SuCs and understand more specific Tesla lingo, you’re in the right place.

Charging Terms

• CCS (Combined Charging System): The newest charging port standard in Europe and other markets.
• CHAdeMO (CHArge de MOve): A popular DC fast charging standard.
• J1772: AC charging connection standard developed by SAE.
• MC (Mobile Connector): A Tesla mobile connector previously included with vehicles.
• HPWC (High Power Wall Connector): Now known as Wall Connector.
• SC (Service Center/SuperCharger/SolarCity): Depending on context, it refers to Tesla’s service center, charging device, or the solar energy company.
• SuC (SuperCharger): Distinguishes the supercharging station from the service center.
• SOC (State of Charge): The battery charge percentage.
• PPU (Pay Per Use): For charging at Supercharger stations or other public chargers.

Electricity and Energy

• AC (Alternating Current): The type of electricity used in homes.
• DC (Direct Current): The type of energy stored in batteries.
• NEC (National Electrical Code): Standard for electrical wiring and equipment in the USA.
• NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association): Largest association of electrical equipment manufacturers in the USA.
• NEMA 14-50: A common plug for EV charging, providing a maximum of 50 amps.
• kW (Kilowatt): A unit of electrical power.
• kWh (Kilowatt-Hour): A measure of energy consumption.
• Wh/km (Watt-Hour per Kilometer): Indicates energy consumption per kilometer.

Computing Hardware

• CPU (Central Processing Unit): The main data-processing chip in a computer.
• GPU (Graphics Processing Unit): Some computers contain a processor specifically for rendering graphics.
• MCU (Media Control Unit): The large touchscreen and computer controlling it.
• MCU1/MCU2/MCU3: Different versions of Tesla’s Media Control Unit hardware.
• HW1/HW2/HW2.5/HW3.0: Refers to different hardware versions for Tesla’s Autopilot.
• ECU (Electronic Control Unit): Hardware used for various driving functions.
• eMMC (Embedded MultiMediaCard): Flash memory used for storing information.
• IC (Integrated Circuit): A microchip embedded in a circuit board.
• PCB (Printed Circuit Board): Used in electronic systems.

Driver Assistance Systems

• DAS (Driver Assistance System): Refers to Tesla’s Autopilot.
• AP (Autopilot): Tesla’s semi-autonomous driving feature.
• EAP (Enhanced Autopilot): An advanced package of Autopilot features.
• FSD (Full Self-Driving): A package enabling more autonomous driving capabilities.
• TACC (Traffic-Aware Cruise Control): Standard on all Tesla vehicles.

Software

• UI (User Interface): The design aspect of software.
• UX (User Experience): The user interface of software.
• OTA (Over-The-Air): Tesla’s capability to download car updates via Wi-Fi or cellular.

Car Features

• DRL (Daytime Running Lights): Lights that remain on during the day.
• TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System): Monitors car tire pressure.
• HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning): The climate control system.

Regulatory Bodies

• EPA (Environmental Protection Agency): US environmental regulatory body.
• IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety): Evaluates vehicle safety.
• EU (European Union): A political and economic union.
• NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration): Regulates vehicle safety in the USA.
• SAE International: Sets standards for automotive engineering.

Tesla/EV Terms

• GF (GigaFactory): Tesla’s manufacturing facilities.
• ICE (Internal Combustion Engine): Traditional gas and diesel engine vehicles.
• SA (Service Advisors): Main contact persons at Tesla Service.
• TSLA: Tesla’s stock symbol.
• FUD (Fear, Uncertainty, Doubt): Used when misinformation is spread to create fear.

Batteries

• LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate): A type of battery chemistry used in Tesla vehicles.
• 4680: Refers to Tesla’s new battery technology.

Tesla Models

• SR/SR+/UNICORN SR/MR/LR/P/P3D/P3D+/P3D-/M3P/MY/MX/MS/M3/CT: Various Tesla model designations.

Motors and Drives

• DM (Dual Motor): Refers to a vehicle with two motors.
• AWD (All-Wheel Drive): Vehicle powered by at least two motors.
• RWD (Rear-Wheel Drive): A vehicle powered by a single rear motor.

General Information

• EV (Electric Vehicle): A vehicle powered solely by electricity.
• PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle): A combination of ICE and EV.

Artificial Intelligence

• NN (Neural Network): Refers to AI and machine learning, crucial for Tesla’s Autopilot development.

Tesla Tools and Modes

• EPC (Electronic Parts Catalogs): Catalogs of parts for Tesla vehicles.
• Toolbox: Tesla’s diagnostic software for vehicle owners.
• Service Mode/Factory Mode: Modes for accessing additional vehicle information, primarily for diagnostics and repairs.

Investing Terms

• TSLAQ: Refers to Tesla critics and short sellers.
• RECALL: Warranty recall campaigns.

Understanding these terms will enhance your Tesla experience and conversations within the community. Which terms were new to you, and have you encountered others?