Gary Zhou 
- đźš— Latest FSD v12.5 rolling out to HW4 vehicles.
- ⏳ HW3 vehicles to get FSD v12.5 “soon.”
- 🛑 Different release number for HW3 vehicles.
- đź’ˇ Initial rollout to HW4 Model Y units.
- ⚙️ Effort needed to optimize code for HW3.
- 🎓 HW3 requires separate validation.
- 🚀 Cybertruck to receive FSD v12.5 in August.
- 🌆 Combined highway and city stacks in v12.5.
- 🕶️ Improved driver monitoring for sunglasses.
- 🔄 Bundled with Actual Smart Summon release.
Tesla’s persistent drive towards complete autonomous driving is one of the most closely watched developments in the automotive industry. Recently, Elon Musk provided a critical update concerning Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) version 12.5. The new version has already begun rolling out to HW4 vehicles, with a promise of coming soon to HW3 vehicles. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the latest FSD v12.5 developments, the nuances between hardware versions, and what this means for Tesla owners.
Initial Rollout and Exclusivity to HW4 Vehicles
The latest FSD v12.5 update is currently being released to Tesla vehicles equipped with the HW4 computer. This initial rollout is not just an incremental update but a significant leap in the realm of self-driving technology loaded with tangible improvements and features.
HW4 Exclusives and Model Y Priority
FSD v12.5 initially rolled out to HW4-equipped Model Y units. This approach is a strategic move, likely reflecting a cautious deployment strategy to ensure stability and optimize performance on a smaller scale before a broader release.
When Can HW3 Vehicles Expect the Update?
Elon Musk has indicated that while the FSD v12.5 update for HW3-equipped vehicles is on the horizon, it will feature a different release number. This apparent disparity raises intriguing questions about the compatibility and technical differences between HW3 and HW4.
Challenges in Optimizing Code for HW3
Optimizing FSD v12.5 for HW3 involves considerable software adjustments to ensure the performance isn’t compromised. HW3 requires separate validation, meaning that before the new version can be universally deployed, it must meet rigorous standards to guarantee reliability and safety.
The Cybertruck and Upcoming Features
Among the exciting news is the expected integration of FSD v12.5 with the Cybertruck, albeit with HW4. Musk has suggested that the Cybertruck will receive this latest FSD technology in August. This aligns with Tesla’s ongoing advancements and the desire to bring the most cutting-edge features to its flagship electric vehicles.
Key Features of FSD v12.5
Combined Highway and City Stacks
One of the most substantial enhancements in FSD v12.5 is the merging of highway and city driving stacks into a single unified system. This not only simplifies the overall architecture but potentially enhances the consistency and reliability of the FSD experiences across different driving scenarios.
Improved Driver Monitoring
A welcomed feature in v12.5 is the enhanced driver monitoring system. This upgrade allows drivers to wear sunglasses without being incessantly nagged by the system, reflecting Tesla’s commitment to evolving user-friendly and practical AI-driven monitoring solutions.
Actual Smart Summon
With the rollout of FSD v12.5, Tesla has bundled the release of Actual Smart Summon. Though technically a separate code, integrating it into the FSD suite enhances the package’s appeal, bringing more sophisticated autonomous capabilities to Tesla drivers.
Conclusion
Tesla’s FSD v12.5 marks another milestone in the company’s journey toward fully autonomous driving. Though its deployment is currently limited to HW4 vehicles, HW3-equipped vehicles are set to receive their version soon, indicating an exciting future for all Tesla owners. As always, Tesla’s updates are emblematic of continuous innovation, aiming to elevate driving experiences to new heights.
Through significant technical efforts, expanded features, and strategic rollouts, Tesla continues to assert its dominance in the autonomous vehicle market. Whether you’re a Tesla owner eagerly awaiting the latest updates or an automotive enthusiast keeping tabs on industry developments, FSD v12.5 is a mark of the pragmatic and futuristic approach that defines Tesla.
