FSD Beta 10.11 now going out to public testers

March 14, 2022

By Nuno Cristovao

New vector lanes

@MarkHalleyPhd/Twitter

Tesla's latest FSD Beta, v10.11 is now going out to public testers. The beta is version 2022.4.5.15. For FSD Beta testers, it'll be the first update they receive that's based on a 2022 release.

Earlier this month Elon tweeted that the beta may go out as early as this past Tuesday. However, he then followed up that it was instead going to go out this past weekend.

Over the weekend we saw FSD Beta 10.11 go out to several employees, which Tesla uses as a final testing phase before releasing to the public.

Today we're finally seeing several public testers getting this build, but it may be a while before it goes out to everyone. Tesla looks at the release carefully as it's going out and can choose to slow it down, speed it up or stop it completely to fix any issues.

When Elon spoke about the next FSD Beta, he mentioned FSD Beta 10.12. This beta is version 10.11. It's not clear whether there was a misunderstanding or whether Tesla initially planned to increment the version.

However, this is a completely new beta for all public testers and it appears to be packed with improvements.

The most notable improvements appear to be new vector-based lanes and reduced slowdowns. An example of the new vector-based lanes is below. In addition to clearer lane markings, it appears that the whole lane will also be highlighted in blue when the car starts to perform a lane change.

New vector lanes

@MarkHalleyPhd/Twitter

This beta is expected to hit Canada for the first time according to Elon, but there are no signs yet of it going north of the border.

Tesla will likely monitor it for several days in the US before releasing it to our northern neighbor.

The complete FSD Beta release notes are below:

- Upgraded modeling of lane geometry from dense rasters ("bag of points") to an autoregressive decoder that directly predicts and connects "vector space" lanes point by point using a transformer neural network. This enables us to predict crossing lanes, allows computationally cheaper and less error prone post-processing, and paves the way for predicting many other signals and their relationships jointly and end-to-end.

- Use more accurate predictions of where vehicles are turning or merging to reduce unnecessary slowdowns for vehicles that will not cross our path.

- Improved right-of-way understanding if the map is inaccurate or the car cannot follow the navigation. In particular, modeling intersection extents is now entirely based on network predictions and no longer uses map-based heuristics.

- Improved the precision of VRU detections by 44.9%, dramatically reducing spurious false positive pedestrians and bicycles (especially around tar seams, skid marks, and rain drops). This was accomplished by increasing the data size of the next-gen autolabeler, training network parameters that were previously frozen, and modifying the network loss functions. We find that this decreases the incidence of VRU-related false slowdowns.

- Reduced the predicted velocity error of very close-by motorcycles, scooters, wheelchairs, and pedestrians by 63.6%. To do this, we introduced a new dataset of simulated adversarial high speed VRU interactions. This update improves autopilot control around fast-moving and cutting-in VRUs.

- Improved creeping profile with higher jerk when creeping starts and ends.

- Improved control for nearby obstacles by predicting continuous distance to static geometry with the general static obstacle network.

- Reduced vehicle "parked" attribute error rate by 17%, achieved by increasing the dataset size by 14%. Also improved brake light accuracy.

- Improved clear-to-go scenario velocity error by 5% and highway scenario velocity error by 10%, achieved by tuning loss function targeted at improving performance in difficult scenarios.

- Improved detection and control for open car doors.

- Improved smoothness through turns by using an optimization-based approach to decide which road lines are irrelevant for control given lateral and longitudinal acceleration and jerk limits as well as vehicle kinematics.

- Improved stability of the FSD Ul visualizations by optimizing ethernet data transfer pipeline by 15%.

- Improved recall for vehicles directly behind ego, and improved precision for vehicle detection network.

Release Notes Explained

Here is a great video that explains Tesla's technical release notes and what improvements you can find in this release.

In addition to the improvements in this FSD Beta, testers can also expect to find these other features that were added in the 2022.4 update.

Range Display Calibration for LFP batteries

If you have a SR+ with an LFP battery, then you'll also receive this feature that charges your car to 100% to help improve battery calibration. LFP batteries have very similar voltages from a low state of charge to a high state of charge. If the battery isn't regularly charged to 100%, it can be difficult for the vehicle to know its state of charge, which could cause some issues.

Cabin Camera

Tesla is collecting additional analytics from the cabin camera to help develop additional features. Tesla is asking you to opt-in to cabin camera analytics if you'd like to help develop new features.

There's no word on what these new features may be, but it could be just about anything, such as the ability to send you a notification if it detects an animal in your car and you forgot to turn on Dog Mode.

Car Colorizer

We're probably all familiar with this feature by now that allows you to alter the exterior color of your vehicle. The color you pick is used in the car's visualizations, car menus and in the Tesla app. You can also view a video of Tesla's Car Colorizer feature.

Audio Sources

The ability to disable certain audio sources comes back in 2022.4. If there are audio sources that you don't use, such as TIDAL, Spotify, or TuneIn, you can now disable them.

When an audio source is disabled, it won't appear in the More Apps menu or in the Sources dropdown.

Icons in the Status Bar

2022.4 was released quite a while ago, so it's easy for FSD Beta testers to forget everything that is in this release and why they should be excited.

Some icons are now returning to the car's top status bar, such as Driver Profiles (while in park) and the Sentry Mode icon.

Save Dashcam Clips

You can now more easily save dashcam clips if you have the Dashcam viewer in your launcher. Since the dashcam viewer can't be used while driving, the icon now has a dual purpose. If you tap it while in Drive, your car will save the last ten minutes of footage.

Regenerative Braking in Autopilot

Additional regenerative braking is now used in Autopilot, which will be especially useful in FSD. The vehicle previously used regenerative braking while on AP, but it will now apply it at lower speeds that better match how a driver would use regenerative braking.

Windshield Wiper Defrost

If you have a new Tesla that was built in the past few months, then it may have windshield wiper heaters. If it does, then this is the software update that enables it.

Nearby Superchargers

You can once again view nearby Superchargers in the same way you could in Tesla's v10 software. The Superchargers icon now appears on the far side just like it used to.

This FSD Beta release is an exciting one that includes many new features with the updated FSD Beta build and in the public 2022.4 release. You can also view the full 2022.4 release notes.

Tesla News This Week: A Look at Software Update 2023.20, Tesla App Updates and Model Y Hardware 4.0

June 4, 2023

By Not a Tesla App Staff

This week we take a look at Tesla's upcoming update, 2023.20, Tesla's improvements to Autowipers and its latest app update

Join us as we take a look back at this week's top Tesla stories. From an early look at the features included in Tesla's upcoming 2023.20 software update, to Tesla's latest app update, we dive into the top stories of the week.

An Early Look at Tesla's 2023.20 Update and Its Features

Tesla is introducing the ability to track your tire mileage in update 2023.20

Preparations are underway for Tesla's next software update, version 2023.20. Although currently in testing, this update has been drawing attention since it was first noticed last week. Considering Tesla's 2023.12 update brought numerous new features, it appears this next may be smaller. However, we now have our first look at some of the features included in Tesla's 2023.20 update.

A noteworthy improvement under the upcoming update pertains to tire service tracking. Post-update, vehicle owners can track how many miles have been driven since their last tire service.

Tesla has updated its app to 4.21.5

Not a Tesla App

This week Tesla updated their iPhone app to version 4.21.5. The updated features include a new Loot Box design and a notice to Canadians using their Superchargers. Tesla also hints at several upcoming features including Boombom v2.

Tesla's Model Y with HW4 is coming without radar

Tesla

As Tesla continues to redefine the automotive industry, insiders have revealed that the company's upcoming Hardware 4.0 (HW4) will not include the radar module in its Model Y vehicles, at least not initially. This marks a shift in the company's approach towards autonomous driving, relying more heavily on vision-based systems. This strategic decision builds on the recent introduction of HW4 in the luxury Model S and Model X models.

Previously, the integration of HD radar in the Model S and Model X indicated an evolution in the company's Full Self-Driving (FSD) hardware.

Tesla has reduced the FSD suspension to one week with FSD Beta 11.4.2

Tesla

Tesla is again modifying the Full Self Driving (FSD) Beta suspension policy. Initially, the system, which is based on a strike policy, suspended users until Tesla reset strikes globally, which ranged from about every three to nine months. The driver has up to three strikes for vehicles without a cabin camera and five for those equipped with them.

More recently Tesla changed their policy to reset FSD suspensions on an individual basis after "approximately two weeks," according to Tesla. But with the introduction of FSD Beta 11.4.2, Tesla has now reduced the suspension interval from two weeks to approximately one week.

Ford will add a Tesla (NACS) port to its future EVs

Tesla

In a move that attests to Elon Musk's words on fostering industry collaboration over competition, Tesla and Ford have announced a partnership to enable the latter's electric vehicles access to Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network.

Contrary to earlier speculations that Tesla's move to open its proprietary charging connector might be a futile attempt at standardization, Ford has embraced the North American Charging Standard (NACS) - Tesla's charging system. With this, Tesla’s charging plug design, known for some advantages over the current CCS standard, might start gaining traction across the North American EV sector.

FSD Beta 11.4.2 introduces Autowipers v4

EVlectric/YouTube

For Tesla owners, the auto wiper system has been a contentious feature. Loved by some for its attempt at autonomous convenience yet criticized by others for its hit-or-miss performance, the system has often had trouble with extreme light conditions or misty weather. Now, Tesla has introduced v4 of their autowipers system that aims to correct past issues and enhance the user experience.

The updates come via the new Full Self-Driving (FSD) Beta 11.4.2, as reported by Tesla hacker @GreenTheOnly. While release notes didn't indicate changes, Green pointed out significant differences under the hood.

Tesla will now give owners a 150km Supercharger credit

Tesla

Tesla has recently come up with a new way of doing things when it comes to delivering cars. The company claims this change has been made to align with some new rules in the industry. In the past, Tesla always delivered cars with a full charge. Now, they are to be delivered with only half charge.

When electric vehicles are being transported from one place to another, having them fully charged can pose a risk. Keeping the state of charge (SOC) at 50% during shipment reduces the chances of battery fires. This practice is not new. Other battery-operated devices, like e-bikes, are also shipped at a lower SOC for the same safety reasons.

Is Tesla getting ready to unveil the refreshed Model 3?

ffiarpg/Reddit

Tesla CEO Elon Musk's recent visit to China, his first in three years, has set the stage for widespread conjecture around the unveiling of the revamped Tesla Model 3. Dubbed Project Highland, this model refresh has been a topic of discussion for some time. Industry insiders believe Musk's significant stop at the Shanghai Gigafactory might be strategically timed to coincide with a potential sneak peek of the new Model 3 design.

A good view of all the displays available in a Model S

Tesla

Tesla is a pioneer in the automotive industry, and one of the most defining features of its vehicles is the use of large touchscreens. These screens are a central hub for most vehicle functions, including music, vehicle settings, navigation, and more. Tesla's commitment to a minimalist and user-friendly design is evident through integrating these screens, which have become iconic in electric vehicles.

Between 2012 and 2020, the Model S and Model X were equipped with vertical screens, which stood out due to their impressive size and orientation.

NHTSA Concludes Probe into Tesla's 'Passenger Play': No Recall Sought, Concerns Remain

June 2, 2023

By Kevin Armstrong

NHTSA closes its investigation into Tesla's 'Passenger Play' feature

Cf Tesla/YouTube

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has concluded its investigation into Tesla's 'Passenger Play' feature, stating it will not pursue a recall of the scrutinized vehicles. Passenger Play allowed passengers in the vehicle to play certain games like the Sky Force Reloaded while the vehicle was in motion. Tesla was quick to respond to NHTSA's concerns and issued an update that requires the vehicle to be in park before games can be launched.

The closure of the probe comes amidst continuing concerns over the potential for driver distraction.

Investigation Ends, Still Leaves Room for Future Actions

While NHTSA's conclusion signifies a milestone in Tesla's ongoing scrutiny, it does not entirely absolve the electric vehicle maker. The administration emphasized that the end of the investigation does not mean a safety-related defect doesn't exist. Furthermore, the NHTSA's decision opens the possibility for future action if additional concerns arise.

NHTSA's apprehensions were primarily rooted in Tesla's decision to allow video games to be played on the front center touchscreen of the vehicle while in motion. Having acknowledged these concerns, Tesla voluntarily took action by disabling the 'Passenger Play' feature through an over-the-air software update soon after NHTSA launched its investigation in December 2021.

Tesla's Voluntary Disabling of Feature Commended

The administration confirmed that Tesla reported a 97% completion rate of the software update disabling 'Passenger Play', within a month of its release. The agency lauded Tesla's swift action, which showcased a responsible approach toward ensuring driver safety and mitigating distractions. This action appeared to significantly address NHTSA's concerns, as the agency cited the importance of "affirmative technology-based lockouts" as more effective than merely using labels or disclaimer screens.

Ongoing Scrutiny of Tesla's Autopilot System

Despite the conclusion of this specific probe, Tesla remains under the lens of the NHTSA, which is currently investigating Autopilot. The investigation, covering approximately 830,000 Tesla vehicles, aims to understand better human factors concerning Tesla interfaces and the dynamic driving task.

A History of Safety First

Tesla has always portrayed itself as an automaker that prioritizes safety. From advanced driver assist systems to top-tier safety ratings, the electric car manufacturer has consistently sought to revolutionize transportation safety norms. The swift action in disabling the controversial 'Passenger Play' feature further underscores the company's commitment to road safety and user well-being.

Tesla’s case serves as a potent reminder for all automakers that in-vehicle infotainment devices must balance entertainment and safety. In 2014, the NHTSA issued guidelines encouraging automakers to design in-vehicle devices so the driver can’t use them to perform inherently distracting secondary tasks while driving. As the lines between automobiles and technology blur, the importance of these guidelines will only grow.

Although the 'Passenger Play' investigation has concluded, Tesla’s journey with the NHTSA is far from over. The ongoing probe into Tesla’s Autopilot system indicates that the auto giant will remain under close watch to ensure the highest levels of safety for users and fellow road users alike.