Key Takeaways
1. Tesla will launch FSD version 14 in Q4, featuring ten times the parameters of FSD 13 and fewer driver interruptions.
2. The Model 3 is receiving a front bumper camera retrofit as part of its 2023 Highland refresh, enhancing parking and auto-parking capabilities.
3. The absence of a front bumper camera in the initial Model 3 refresh disappointed many buyers, especially after other Tesla models were equipped with this feature.
4. The front camera feed is expected to be integrated into Tesla’s FSD systems, maintaining consistency across refreshed vehicles.
5. The MIIT entry suggests that older Model 3 Highland units might have the option for a front camera retrofit, indicating potential future upgrades.
Tesla is set to launch its FSD version 14 in the fourth quarter, boasting ten times the parameters of the current FSD 13, along with significantly less driver interruptions.
Model 3 Updates
According to the Chinese MIIT regulatory authority, Tesla is finally adding or retrofitting a front bumper camera to the Model 3. This change is part of the new features that Tesla has filed under the TSL7000BEVAR7 entry in the MIIT database, which pertains to the latest Model 3 Highland refresh that debuted in 2023. Leaked images of the 2024 Model 3 showed that it was equipped with a HW4 front bumper camera, and Tesla even shared teaser promotions highlighting this upgrade on its official site before the launch.
Driver Concerns
When the Model 3 refresh was initially launched, the absence of a front bumper camera disappointed many potential buyers, as it complicates parking and auto-parking capabilities. Since then, Tesla has equipped its other models, such as the Model Y Juniper facelift, Cybertruck, and the refreshed Model S and Model X, with front bumper cameras. This left the Model 3 as the only recent Tesla model without this essential HW4 upgrade, which is unfortunate since it not only assists with parking—especially after Tesla removed the USS sensors from the bumper to cut costs—but also supports the Off-Road mode.
Upcoming Features
Additionally, there are signs that Tesla is integrating the front camera feed into its FSD systems. Even the Cybercab features one, making it crucial for Tesla to include this in the Model 3 if it aims to maintain uniformity across its refreshed vehicles. Although a front camera might not be critical for the Model 3’s inclusion in the Robotaxi fleet, Tesla tends to be prudent with unnecessary expenses, implying that this feature could be essential for FSD 14. Thus, it seems the company is planning to include it in future production units.
Regarding retrofitting existing Model 3 facelift units with the HW4 components necessary for Robotaxi service, the MIIT entry mentions an “optional camera at the front bumper,” suggesting that Tesla may also be considering a campaign for older Highland models.
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