Tesla has taken another step into the future with its latest patent filing for a steer-by-wire system. Late last year, speculation was that this system might be coming in 2023. The system, poised to replace traditional steering mechanisms, brings promising advantages: increased efficiency, advanced steering configurations, and the opportunity for groundbreaking vehicle cockpit designs.
The Steer-by-Wire System
At this point, you may wonder: What is a steer-by-wire system, and how does it change the game?
Steer-by-wire technology eliminates the mechanical linkage between the steering and the vehicle's wheels. Instead, steering inputs from the driver are converted into electronic signals, which are then processed by the vehicle's computer system to control the wheels' direction. This transformation promises an ultra-responsive, smoother, and more efficient steering experience, a development bound to change how we drive.
Setting Stage for a Shift with the Steer-by-Wire System
Tesla's steer-by-wire system, as detailed in the patent, is designed with a remarkable feature: redundancy. The system does away with the need for a backup mechanical steering system, relying instead on zonally isolated redundant components. This ensures that even in the event of a component failure, the overall system's performance remains uncompromised.
But how does this fit with Tesla's current design? The company's novel yoke steering wheel, which made waves in 2021, seems the perfect candidate for a steer-by-wire system. This bold design has met with mixed reviews, primarily due to its deviation from traditional hand-over-hand steering. Yet, with a steer-by-wire system, such a design could come into its own, by offering different steering ratios at various speeds, essentially eliminating hand-over-hand actions.
How Steer-by-Wire System Edges Out Traditional Mechanisms
The steer-by-wire system isn't just about changing the status quo; it's about enhancing it. One key benefit is the potential to speed up production by reducing the number of parts needed for the steering mechanism. Additionally, the drive-by-wire technology promises a smoother ride, as the steering wheel is no longer directly connected to the road, minimizing vibration and pull on uneven surfaces.
Moreover, the advanced system responds to multiple variables to create a precise steering ratio, providing a more effortless and intuitive driving experience. This could be particularly beneficial for those who might find traditional steering challenging, such as seniors or individuals with disabilities.
With competition heating up in the EV market, Tesla's steer-by-wire patent signals its continued commitment to pushing boundaries and shaping the future of electric vehicles. Time will tell how this technology transforms our driving experience.
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The greatly anticipated FSD v12.4 is around the corner, with Elon Musk mentioning that it will be going to employees this weekend, with limited external testers next week.
Several significant improvements are coming with V12.4, which is being compared to the leap in performance that was previously seen between V12 and V11.
Improved Comfort and Reduced Interventions
There are quite a few improvements expected with V12.4, which Musk has said will be focused on user comfort by reducing hard accelerations and sudden braking. According to Musk, FSD v12.4 is also expected to have a 5-10x improvement in time between user interventions, which means that Tesla is rapidly approaching its goal for the Robotaxi announcement on August 8, 2024.
Steering Wheel Nag Removal
FSD V12.4 is expected to eliminate the steering wheel nag, as Musk confirmed its removal last week. The camera-based driver monitoring system will be taking over, providing a hands-free experience. These improvements will most likely benefit owners who have cabin cameras with infrared lights the most, while Tesla may continue to use steering wheel nag as a fallback mechanism.
Driverless Autopark
The second key feature that may be included in v12.4 will be Banish Autopark, previously known as Reverse Summon, allowing you to choose a parking spot, exit the vehicle and have the car park itself. Whether this feature makes it in v12.4 is yet to be seen, but Musk has mentioned that parking without a driver is coming soon.
Automatically Seek Parking Spot at Destination
Finally, your Tesla will now traverse a parking lot and automatically enter Autopark mode when arriving at a destination, according to a post from Musk.
Release Date
Musk has mentioned that FSD V12.4 is going out to employee vehicles for internal testing this weekend, with external testing starting next week. The rollouts typically go slower than predicted, but looks like we may see this to begin shipping to customers by the end of the month.
Today, as part of a broader change of tariff rates on Chinese goods, U.S. President Joe Biden announced that he’ll raise tariffs on electric vehicles imported from China, increasing the rate from 25% to 100%, effective this year.
This increase won’t just impact the import of vehicles, but also the rate for lithium-ion batteries produced in China, which will be moving from 7.5% to 25%.
Impact on Competition
The immediate impact of this new regulation is significant for Chinese manufacturers, who have been regarded as Tesla’s largest and greatest competition. Given the tariff hike, this means that new Chinese manufacturers, such as Nio, XPeng, or BYD, will either need to set up production in North America, or be subject to the increased import tariff.
Nio’s vehicles cost between $40,000 USD to $70,000 USD in China based on today’s conversion rates, and with an import tariff of 100%, an imported vehicle’s price would be doubled to $80,000 USD to $140,000 USD, not including other fees. Chinese manufacturers will have to closely weigh the advantages and disadvantages of opening up the North American market, with challenges including vehicle homologation, new tariffs, and a difficult EV market.
Tesla and Chinese Tariffs
Elon Musk recently visited China, engaging with officials to build a foundation for what is currently the world’s largest electric vehicle market. With the potential import of Chinese EVs becoming restricted to the United States, this places Tesla in an advantageous position over its Chinese competitors who have yet to establish their brands in North America.
On the other hand, this could also impact Tesla, as they import Chinese batteries for usage in some vehicles in the United States.
Tesla does not import Gigafactory Shanghai vehicles to the US, but has been increasing North American battery production lately, with expansions in Lathrop, California and a new facility in Sparks, Nevada.
Canadian Tariffs
In Canada, the Model 3 and Model Y are currently being imported from Gigafactory Shanghai. Given Canada’s close following of US foreign policy, this could impact either the prices of Tesla vehicles in Canada or have Tesla shipping vehicles from Fremont and Texas to the United States once again, should Canada also adopt a similar tariff policy.
TeslaFi logs your drives and charging sessions, letting you keep a log of your vehice's activity. We highly recommend checking them out if you use your car for business trips and would like to keep track of reimbursements, if you like to see how much you spend on charging or if you just love statistics. Visit their site and see everything they have to offer!
Tesla Android Project enables you to run Android apps in your Tesla. The platform is Open Source and you can deploy it on your own Raspberry Pi 4. Consider supporting the initiative by donating or purchasing the Compute Module 4 Bundle that delivers the best experience. Get $20 off by using the code: NotATeslaApp
The official Tesla app only notifies you if your car is broken into. By installing Sentry Pro on your phone, you will be notified for all Sentry Mode events. Stay connected and avoid potential surprises by receiving notifications. Stop constantly checking the cameras to ensure safety. Check only when necessary, save battery and get peace of mind. Get a 7 day free trial here!
Stay organized, connected, and stylish with Cyberbackpack — the #1 backpack, luggage & travel accessories for Tesla owners. We highly recommend checking them out if you commute or travel and would like a backpack or luggage that is sleek, secure and durable. View their products page and see everything they have to offer!
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