FYI: Tesla has been meticulously rolling out its latest Full Self-Driving (FSD) Supervised software update, v12.5, focusing initially on vehicles featuring the HW4 computer. Meanwhile, HW3-equipped vehicles, making up the bulk of their fleet, await their turn.
Tesla’s much-anticipated Full Self-Driving (FSD) Supervised v12.5 is in the spotlight as the company gears up for a broad release. However, there is a catch—the rollout has primarily been targeting vehicles equipped with the newer HW4 computer. For the owners of HW3-equipped Tesla vehicles, the wait for the new FSD software is almost over, though CEO Elon Musk recently confirmed that the deployment team is still working on finalizing the details.
A Delayed yet Distinct Rollout for HW3 Vehicles
Elon Musk addressed the unique situation surrounding HW3 vehicles via a post on Saturday. He stated that the release destined for these vehicles would bear a "different release number" compared to the v12.5.1.3 version initially rolled out on Friday. This distinction is crucial, as HW3—termed AI3 in earlier communications—represents the majority of Tesla’s current fleet on the road.
Timeline and Challenges
Tesla began the widespread release of FSD v12.5.1 almost two weeks ago. Initially, the update was pushed out to HW4-equipped Model Y units. It was projected to reach HW3 vehicles around 10 days later, which would have been last Thursday according to Musk’s timeline. However, unexpected delays have been encountered.
"Musk elaborated that the considerable effort to optimize the code for HW3 systems, compounded by the necessity for separate validation, has extended the timeline. He noted, “It takes considerable software effort to optimize the code enough to run on HW3,” mentioning the complexities involved in ensuring robust and safe operation."
What’s in FSD v12.5?
Tesla’s FSD v12.5 promises a comprehensive array of improvements:
- Unified Highway and City Stacks: Combined highway and urban driving functionalities into a single, smoother operating stack.
- Enhanced Driver Monitoring: This feature allows drivers to wear sunglasses without triggering the driver-monitoring nag.
- Actual Smart Summon: Though technically a separate code, this feature will be included in the new release, allowing for more practical autonomous vehicle movements.
Cybertruck and Future Expectations
Despite the Cybertruck being equipped with the HW4 system, FSD Supervised remains unavailable for this upcoming model. However, Musk has suggested an FSD release for the Cybertruck could be expected sometime in August.
Looking Ahead
Tesla’s meticulous approach emphasizes quality and safety, aiming for nothing less than a flawless experience for its users. With a phased rollout and continued optimizations, the company remains focused on making advanced self-driving functionalities accessible to more of its vehicle owners.
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William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi
