Tesla is developing an advanced version of its Full Self-Driving software: Elon Musk leads the project
Tesla is set to roll out its next major Full Self-Driving (FSD) model update in September 2025, promising significant improvements in autonomous driving capabilities. This update, described by Elon Musk as a major step-change improvement for handling rare conditions on the road, is expected to reduce the need for driver attention in most situations [1].
The new FSD model being developed includes substantial video quality enhancements and an increase in model size, with reports suggesting a 10 times increase in parameters compared to the previous version. This significant upgrade is expected to greatly improve the model's real-world performance [2]. If testing proceeds well, the new FSD model could start releasing as early as next month (September 2025) [2].
Regarding availability, Tesla has not confirmed whether this improved FSD release will be available for all Tesla models or if it will be limited to certain hardware generations. Recent software releases have prioritized vehicles equipped with Tesla’s latest Hardware 4 over Hardware 3, indicating that newer cars might get the update first [4].
The new FSD model is designed to improve upon the current version, with a focus on enhancing the functionality of Tesla's robotaxi fleet. It includes video improvements and size upgrades, aiming to provide a smoother and more efficient driving experience [5].
Tesla's roadmap also includes plans to introduce an FSD Unsupervised feature in select US cities by the end of 2025, moving towards fully autonomous operation without driver supervision [3].
Key Points
- Release date: Expected September 2025 for mass rollout of the new FSD update [1][2].
- Improvements: Enhanced video inputs, model size increased (~10X parameters), better handling of rare driving conditions, and reduced driver attention requirement in most scenarios [1][2].
- Availability: Likely prioritized on Tesla hardware 4-equipped vehicles initially; unclear if all models or hardware versions will receive it simultaneously [4].
- Future plans: Move toward FSD Unsupervised in select US cities by late 2025 [3].
This update represents a significant step in Tesla’s continuous efforts to enhance their autonomy capabilities, pushing closer to fully driverless operation across their fleet. The success of the new FSD model in the market may be impacted by various factors, including its effectiveness in real-world conditions and Elon Musk's global reputation and popularity.
[1] Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) Update: What's New and When to Expect It
[2] Elon Musk Hints at Tesla's New Full Self-Driving (FSD) Model Release
[3] Tesla's FSD Unsupervised: What It Means and When to Expect It
[4] Tesla's Software Update Prioritization: What It Means for Your Vehicle
[5] Tesla's New Full Self-Driving (FSD) Model: What's New and What to Expect
Artificial-intelligence technologies within the new FSD model have been expanded, enabling improved handling of rare driving conditions and reducing the need for driver attention in most situations. The advancements in technology, particularly the significant increase in model parameters, are expected to greatly improve the model's real-world performance, thereby enhancing Tesla's autonomous driving capabilities.
