FYI: The Tesla Semi was recently observed undergoing Full Self-Driving (FSD) tests near Giga Nevada, hinting at future advancements in autonomous trucking technology.
Tesla Semi Undergoes FSD Testing Near Giga Nevada
A Tesla Semi was recently spotted undergoing tests close to Tesla’s Gigafactory in Nevada, sparking speculation about the integration of Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology in the electric truck.
Captured Footage Reveals Data Collection
Last Saturday, drone operator and frequent Giga Nevada observer Zanegler shared footage and images of a Tesla Semi equipped with various data-collection devices, potentially linked to FSD testing. While the Tesla Semi comes with hardware capable of supporting Autopilot and FSD, these systems are still being fine-tuned for the truck, and the observed tests could be part of this ongoing development.
LiDAR vs. Vision-Based Systems
Engagement on social media has fueled discussions regarding the hardware. Some speculate that the Semi is outfitted with LiDAR sensors, which might be used to compare performance against Tesla’s camera-based “Vision” system, the foundation for both Autopilot and FSD Supervised.
Tesla Semi Testing FSD / Autopilot?
This Engineering Tesla Semi with sensors that likely include lidar was spotted near Giga Nevada.
Is this semi driving itself or just gathering data? 📊 pic.twitter.com/y6jh5r6jGV
– Zanegler (@HinrichsZane) August 24, 2024
European Expansion of Tesla Semi
In a notable development, another Tesla Semi with apparent LiDAR and data collection equipment was seen in June, leading to similar discussions. Meanwhile, the first Tesla Semi in Europe was recently seen near Kamen, Germany, presumably en route to Hannover for the upcoming IAA Transportation 2024 conference. Tesla has even listed job openings to support their Semi operations in Europe.
Tesla’s U.S. Business Development Head Graham Carroll recently outlined plans to introduce the Semi to the European market, alongside announcements of new roles to support this initiative.
“We are taking steps to bring the Tesla Semi to Europe, and I’m looking for someone with industry experience in electrification to help us develop this exciting new market,” Carroll said. “This is a groundbreaking product that meaningfully advances Tesla’s mission, and the team behind it is world-class. Let the wild rumpus begin.”
Potential Production in Berlin
Elon Musk has hinted at the possibility of manufacturing the Tesla Semi at the Gigafactory in Berlin, Germany, though no detailed plans have been disclosed.
“I think it makes sense to produce the Semi truck in Europe at Giga Berlin,” Musk shared in February.
As Tesla works to expand its client base for the Semi, the company is also focused on enhancing its Gigafactory in Nevada. The expansion includes building a dedicated production facility for the Semi, among other projects.
Conclusion
Tesla continues to push the boundaries of autonomous driving and electric vehicle technology, with recent sightings of the Tesla Semi undergoing FSD tests near Giga Nevada fueling anticipation for future advancements. With plans to expand into Europe and potential production capabilities in Berlin, the company is poised to revolutionize the trucking industry.
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By William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi
