Tesla Has Introduced FSD Hardware 4.0 on the Model Y

Tesla has introduced hardware 4.0 for the Model Y

BLKMDL3/Twitter

Without fanfare, Tesla has introduced their most refined self-driving computer, Hardware 4.0 (HW4), into the Model Y lineup. It's a surprising move, as it was believed HW4 would roll out with the Model Y redesign. This strategic decision, executed in Tesla’s unique, understated style, follows the quiet integration of HW4 into the luxury Model S and Model X models earlier this year.

This shift came to light thanks to one of our sources, who has provided accurate information in the past. Tesla owner Zack (@BLKMDL3) has now identified multiple Model Y units equipped with fresh hardware at his local delivery center. The distinctive upgraded side repeater and forward-facing cameras indicate HW4 were observed in both Long Range and Performance variants of the Model Y.

Transitioning to the New Standard

Notwithstanding these exciting sightings, numerous Model Ys with the previous hardware was still found at the delivery site. As is customary with Tesla’s approach to hardware rollouts, the full switch to HW4 across all Model Ys will take some time as Tesla factories incorporate these changes.

Source code information connected to a recently manufactured Model Y also confirmed the presence of HW4, designated as "AP HW4". Interestingly, this phased implementation might lead to disparities among Model Y units depending on their manufacturing origin. For instance, those made in China, where no HW4 incorporation has been reported yet, might cause Canadian customers to miss out on the HW4 upgrade.

HW4: Paving the Way for Enhanced Autonomy

Tesla’s HW4 represents the company’s commitment to refine its vision-based self-driving system further, shifting from the previous reliance on a combination of vision and radar sensors. It plays a pivotal role in Tesla’s bold objective to master Full Self-Driving (FSD) by year-end.

Nonetheless, it's worth noting that certain functionalities were not instantly available during the early stages of HW4 deployment. This factor likely played a role in Tesla's decision to delay its introduction of the Model Y. As Tesla continues perfecting HW4, further enhancements are anticipated, including improved handling of complicated maneuvers, such as unprotected turns.

Tesla has introduced hardware 4.0 for the Model Y

BLKMDL3/Twitter

The Hardware Evolution: Comparing HW4 and HW3

Insightful images shared by the Tesla community have provided a comparative look between HW4 and its predecessor, Hardware 3.0 (HW3). Of note, the side repeater cameras on the Model Y with HW4 have noticeably larger lens housings and a wider field of view. This departs from early anticipations, which projected HW4 would introduce additional cameras. Instead, the updated hardware seems to enhance the existing camera system.

What Lies Ahead

The introduction of HW4 into the Model Y marks a remarkable stride in Tesla's commitment to perfecting Full Self-Driving technology. As Tesla continues to develop and refine HW4, it's exciting to envision the transformative potential this holds for the automotive landscape.

While Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s ambitious vision of a Robotaxi fleet may still be some way off, the integration of HW4 in the Model Y undeniably represents a key milestone in that journey. As this revolutionary technology evolves, the world eagerly awaits the exciting advancements it promises to bring to the autonomous driving experience.

Tesla Introduces Hands-Free Frunk Opening in Update 2024.32.3

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In Tesla’s upcoming update, 2024.32.3, Tesla has added hands-free support for opening the vehicle’s frunk. This follows the Spring Update (2024.14), which added Hands-Free Trunk support for certain vehicles.

When hands-free trunk support was added earlier this year, it was supported on vehicles that include an ultra wideband chip, which includes the refresh Model S, new Model X, and the 2024 Model 3. Due to the hardware requirement, these will be the same vehicles that support the new Hands-Free Frunk feature. Legacy vehicles without UWB will unfortunately not support either feature due to the hardware requirement. UWB enables far more accurate tracking of the phone key, allowing Tesla to pinpoint its exact location relative to the vehicle.

The Cybertruck interestingly also includes an ultra wideband chip, however, it didn’t include the automatic opening of the gate earlier this year. However, we expect the Cybertruck to also receive the hands-free frunk opening in this 2024.32.3 update or relatively soon afterward.

Update: The Cybertruck is receiving hands-free frunk support in the 2024.32 update as well.

Hands-Free Frunk

The Hands-Free Frunk works similarly to the trunk feature – with an iPhone 11+ and a recent version of the app, you’ll be able to stand in front of your vehicle, and the Frunk will unlatch after sounding a chime. On some vehicles, the frunk will immediately open after being unlatched, however, you’ll need to manually close it.

This new feature isn’t enabled by default – you’ll need to go to Settings > Locks > Hands-Free Frunk to enable it.

At this time, Tesla doesn’t support UWB on Android devices, though both the Hands-Free Trunk and Hands-Free Frunk support will come to Android users in a future app update, according to Tesla.

Exclude Home

With the addition of the hands-free frunk opening, Tesla has also added a new option. You can now choose to disable the automatic opening when your vehicle is located at home to prevent you from accidentally opening. This will apply to the automatic frunk and trunk. In addition, in the Model X, you’ll also be able to disable the self-presenting doors at home. This is a great addition as many people have kept the hands-free feature disabled due to it awkwardly opening in the garage.

In the 2024.32.3 update, Tesla also mentions that they’ve improved the detection of the phone key, which should make the feature more reliable and faster when approaching the vehicle from the front or rear.

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Tesla’s Referral Program Launches in Europe

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Following its recent launch in the United States and Canada, Tesla has launched their referral program in several European countries as well.

The program is available in Germany, Norway, France, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and possibly others. The program is almost the same as the one available today in North America, with rewards for each referral and a discount for those referred. The cap in Europe is also ten per year.

This program comes right on the heels of a 0% financing offer for the Model Y in Sweden and France. While referrals aren't currently available in Sweden, the 0% financing still is.

European Referrals

The European Referral program accounts for country and local currency, where applicable.

The referral reward program is comparable to the one available in North America. After exchange rates, there is only an approximately 10% difference between the available rewards in the US and EU.

Other Countries

We expect this program to start rolling out to other European countries over the next few days or weeks, as Tesla continues to expand its referral program.

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