Tesla's New FSD Training Cluster With 10,000 GPUs Comes Online

By Kevin Armstrong
Tesla is set to turn on its new NVIDIA-based AI-training cluster
Tesla is set to turn on its new NVIDIA-based AI-training cluster
NVIDIA

Today, Tesla is turning on its massive new system to advance its Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology. The system has many technicalities, so Tesla enthusiast and investor, Sawyer Merritt, shared insights on X.com.

Tesla uses Graphic Processing Units (GPUs) to train its neural networks that are used to solve AI-based problems. Training Tesla's AI involves using vast amounts of video to teach the system how to operate a vehicle autonomously and safely. NVIDIA, a leading GPU manufacturer, recently released a new chip, the H100, which offers significantly higher performance than its predecessor, the A100. However, the H100 doesn't come cheap. NVIDIA's latest training-focused GPU costs about $30,000, and Tesla needs more than just a handful.

Tesla's new training cluster will be powered by 10,000 H100 NVIDIA GPUs, bringing its cost to hundreds of millions of dollars for the GPUs alone.

However, due to the high demand for this advanced chip, NVIDIA cannot produce enough H100 units to meet Tesla's, and the industry's growing demand.

The Power of Dojo

As a result, Tesla is investing over $1 billion to develop its own supercomputer, Dojo. Dojo will have a custom-designed chip to train Tesla's neural nets that will be leveraged in FSD and Optimus. Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO, indicated that if NVIDIA could supply enough chips, the creation of Dojo might not have been necessary. Yet, the current situation has made it imperative for Tesla to take matters into its own hands.

Merritt underscored that the computational power required to train Tesla's FSD technology is a significant challenge. However, Tesla is actively addressing this issue. Musk announced that the company plans to invest over $2 billion in 2023 and again in 2024 to enhance its computational capabilities. This investment is necessary to develop FSD technology and signals Tesla’s commitment to innovation and leadership in the automotive industry.

Groundbreaking Data Centers

Tesla is not only developing its own supercomputer but is also in the process of designing what it describes as its "1st of its kind Data Centers." A recent job listing for a Senior Engineering Program Manager in Austin, Texas, where Tesla's Giga Factory operates, reveals the complexity of this initiative.

The establishment of these data centers is integral to Tesla's broader vision. The company’s need for extensive computing resources is paramount, especially when processing and analyzing large amounts of video data for its self-driving software. The Dojo supercomputer is already a testament to their commitment in this area.

Video Reveals the Tesla Cybertruck's Unique User Interface [Video]

By Kevin Armstrong
A closer look at the Cybertruck's UI
A closer look at the Cybertruck's UI
Vladvein/YouTube

It's not a good day to be named Max and work at Tesla or on the security team assigned to the Cybertruck. You can't help but wonder how a daring individual found himself in the driver's seat of this highly anticipated vehicle. This perpetrator spoke in Russian and joked that a bag in the truck belonged to Elon Musk before zooming in to a name tag reading "Max."

While we certainly don't condone breaking the law, we were provided with a risky reveal of the Cybertruck's interior courtesy of a mysterious and perhaps too-bold-for-his-own-good infiltrator.

Cyber-Theme UI

The video is less than a minute long but provides new information, notably on the updated user interface (UI). For weeks we've had Cybertruck sightings, but this is our best look at the Cybertruck's display.

Updated Icons and Font

The UI appears designed specifically for the Cybertruck; icons possess subtle sharp edges, mirroring Cybertruck's angular aesthetics. This design philosophy also extends to the unique font choice, giving the UI a rugged, distinct look.

Visualizations

A further advancement is the seamless transition between vehicle visualization and maps. The once-clear partition is a fading background, allowing for a more unified appearance. This unity is further emphasized with the vehicle now being depicted atop a 3D polygon terrain, which has been discovered before in firmware updates.

Icon Placement Changes

One of the first distinctions users would notice is the transition from horizontal app icons. This design has been the hallmark of previous Tesla models, to a vertical arrangement along the lefthand side of the screen.

The vehicle control icon is at the bottom, followed by climate controls and other apps. The gear indicator has evolved, too, switching from its usual horizontal layout to a vertical orientation in the screen's top left portion.

A closer look at the Cybertruck's UI
A closer look at the Cybertruck's UI
Vladvein/YouTube

The status icons, such as time, temperature, Tesla profile used to grace the top of the display, but they have now been realigned to the left side and can now be found directly above the vehicle visualization.

Cameras, Front Camera Confirmed

Another intriguing update revolves around the Camera app. Where previously users had to decipher camera views, they are now labeled for convenience, as showcased in the video with marked "Left" and "Front" camera views. Yes, there is a front camera view, finally answering the question of Tesla introducing the front bumper camera. We previously had a look at how we expect Tesla's updated Camera app to work with the front bumper camera.

Battery Icon

One of the standout features in the video is the battery display. Gone are the traditional battery icons. Instead, we are introduced to slanted lines, each symbolizing 10% of the battery charge. This visual representation is intuitive and integrates with the Cybertruck's angular design.

Music Mini Player?

Beneath the vehicle visualization is what appears to be a minuscule music control feature, though its precise functionality remains uncertain from the short video clip.

Inside the Cybertruck: More than Just a Fresh UI

Ambient Lighting: Drawing inspiration from the latest Model 3 Refresh and the Chinese Model Y, the Cybertruck incorporates a colorful ambient lighting strip. Strategically placed, this lighting adds a modern aura to the vehicle's groundbreaking design.

Interior Layout and Accessories: The video takes us on a mini-tour of the truck's interior, revealing several intriguing features:

Hexagonal Design Elements: Keeping in line with Cybertruck's geometric aesthetic, the backup camera icon flaunts a hexagonal design, intriguingly contrasting the octagonal design found on the cupholders.

Center Console: A spacious tray area reminiscent of the old Model S finds a home between the front seats. Decked with some wires and a yet-to-be-identified document, the console boasts "cyber cupholders" with an octagonal design. Furthermore, it's equipped with dual phone charging spots right in front of the cupholders.

Sun Visor: The video briefly showcases the two-stage sun visor, which resembles the one found in the Model X. The video provides a glimpse of the massive glass roof, promising a panoramic view that will undoubtedly make the interior feel even more expansive.

Rear Window View: A feature with many talking is the clear view through the back window. Although the video offers only a short glimpse, obstructed by tires placed in the truck's bed, it's evident that when the cover is open, drivers and passengers will benefit from an expansive, unobstructed view.

As one viewer pointed out, this video will probably be used for evidence one day. Whoever was in the Cybertruck owes Max an apology, and poor Max needs to remember to lock the door.

One of the First Tesla Cybertrucks Will Be Up for Auction at the Petersen Automotive Museum

By Kevin Armstrong
The Peterson Automotive Museum will auction off a low-VIN Cybertruck
The Peterson Automotive Museum will auction off a low-VIN Cybertruck
Ryan Zohoury

The Peterson Automotive Museum in Los Angeles is a must-see for automotive enthusiasts and Tesla aficionados alike. What better day to see it than October 7th? Petersen Automotive Museum is gearing up for its 29th Annual Gala; despite a star-studded lineup, the Cybertruck will be getting all the attention. A 2024 Tesla Cybertruck, one of the most anticipated vehicles of our time, is up for auction.

The Cybertruck Experience

The unique, low-VIN Cybertruck model, touted for its "ultimate durability and passenger protection," offers the winning bidder the chance to be among the first proud owners of this groundbreaking EV. Given the prestige of the Petersen Gala, with its high-profile attendees and substantial ticket prices - individual seats going for $1,750, tables at $17,500, and Premier Tables at a whopping $30,000 - expectations are that the Cybertruck will easily fetch bids over $250,000.

While the exact date for Tesla's official Cybertruck delivery remains under wraps, the speculation is high. This Petersen Gala auction Cybertruck might be one of the first to hit the roads, marking a significant milestone in automotive history.

Hundreds of beautiful, historical and unique vehicles are housed in the Peterson. However, since the Tesla exhibit opened, Cybertruck has been the fan favorite. The Peterson has essentially acted as the first showroom for the Cybertruck, so it is fitting that it has access to this low-vin version.

A Night of Luxury, Legacy, and Legends

The gala, hosted by automotive legend and longtime TV host Jay Leno, promises to be more than just about the Cybertruck. Those lucky enough to attend will also have the chance to bid on experiences like a VIP Tour of Jay Leno's extensive car collection, a luxurious stay in the Scottish Highlands, a deep dive into automotive history with the Hispano Suiza Experience in Barcelona, and an exclusive journey through some of the world's most private car collections in Scottsdale.

For those passionate about motorsports, the gala will honor two legends: Chip Ganassi and Bobby Rahal. Ganassi, an American businessman and Motorsports Hall of Fame inductee has been a vital part of the North American auto racing scene for over three decades. On the other hand, Bobby Rahal's illustrious 25-year career saw him dominating in Formula 1, Can-Am, LeMans/IMSA, and Indy Cars, with victories in the 1986 Indy 500 and the Daytona 24 Hour and Sebring 12 Hour endurance races.

With all eyes on October 7th, the Petersen Automotive Museum's 29th Annual Gala is set to be an event for the history books. Whether you're there to witness the Cybertruck auction, indulge in the luxurious offerings, or honor motorsport legends, one thing's sure — it's an evening that promises to drive conversations for years to come.

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