Issue 383 - Wide rollout of FSD v14.1 has begun
Optimus
Optimus learning Kung Fu 📹
Tesla showed off Optimus performing Kung Fu-style moves, which sparked a lot of debate about whether this demo was truly showing AI learning or just a pre-choreographed routine. Elon confirmed it was not tele-operated, but most commenters felt it was more like scripted animation than real intelligence.
FSD
Future of FSD visualizations revealed through new patent 📷
Tesla’s newly published patent reveals advanced FSD visualizations that go far beyond the current simple graphics we see during Autopilot, using a sophisticated AI model to create detailed, hyper-realistic 3D reconstructions from the vehicle’s cameras. This will enable smarter features like improved Autopark that can precisely recognize and park in tighter spots, identifying lines and special markings fully automatically.
FSD v14.1 introduces robotaxi-style drop-offs and big parking upgrades 📷
FSD (Supervised) V14.1 is Tesla’s biggest Full Self-Driving update in a long while. You now get to choose where the car drops you off—curbside, parking lot, garage, driveway, or street—making it feel much closer to a real robotaxi experience. There’s way smarter detour handling, better emergency vehicle awareness, smoother parking (including in tricky garages), a new “Sloth” driving mode for extra chill rides, and you can now start FSD with a quick tap and customize everything right from the car’s display.
Wide rollout of FSD v14.1 has begun
The much-anticipated wide release of Tesla FSD (Supervised) V14.1 is happening now, with Elon promising even bigger improvements coming soon in V14.2 and V14.3. Updates are rolling out in quick succession.
Incentives
Free FSD transfer program extended into Q4
Tesla is keeping the popular FSD transfer program going through late 2025, letting owners move their pricey Full Self-Driving package to a new vehicle at no extra cost. This makes upgrading to a new Tesla way more appealing, especially for those with older hardware, and helps the company push more folks into cars that can actually run the latest AI features.
Model 3 & Y
US Model 3 updated with front camera, turn signal stalk, and retrofit option 📷
Tesla has quietly upgraded all U.S. Model 3s with a front bumper camera for better low-speed visibility and has brought back the turn signal stalk, responding to feedback from owners who missed the tactile controls. A new blacked-out front logo gives the car a sleeker look, and if you have a 2023 Highland version without the stalk, there’s now a $595 retrofit option via Tesla Service. In my case, I like mine stalk-less.
Two new affordable ‘Standard’ Model 3 and Model Y versions launched
Tesla has just dropped long-awaited ‘Standard’ versions of the Model 3 and Model Y in the US, finally giving buyers a more wallet-friendly entry point. Starting at $36,990 for the Model 3 and $39,990 for the Model Y, these no-frills trims aim to keep EVs accessible now that the $7,500 tax credit is winding down. If you’re thinking about snagging a new Tesla before the credit disappears, please consider using our referral code: http://ts.la/ignacio9266
Software Updates
App 4.49.5 release notes now available
The latest Tesla app update is quietly loaded with changes spotted under the hood, especially around future features. There are signs that Unreal Engine-powered visualizations are being quietly rolled out on newer Model S and X, promising sharper and more interactive FSD graphics if you have Ryzen chips. Dashcam streaming may soon see a boost in quality with dynamic bitrates, and the maintenance tracker has leveled up, now pulling live data from your car to better remind you about tasks like air filter swaps. Big updates are coming for the Virtual Queue at Superchargers and new options for sharing your Tesla with others.
Solar
Solar and Powerwall lease program debuts in the US
Tesla Energy just rolled out a new lease program that lets U.S. homeowners get solar panels and a Powerwall battery with only $600 upfront and a commitment to predictable monthly payments. The lease lasts up to 25 years, with a buyout option after five years, full system maintenance, and a 95% uptime guarantee included. I personally liked the rent option that Tesla had a few years ago, but I guess it wasn’t popular enough.
🤓 What the acronym
As a Tesla fan, I find myself sometimes having to remember what are all those acronyms, here is a list of the ones you can find in this issue.
EV: Electric Vehicle
FSD: Full Self-Driving