Issue 405 - Spring Update 2026
FSD
Auto windshield wipers improve, with more changes coming in FSD v14.3
Longstanding auto wiper complaints have been addressed with a software-based friction estimation system that lets the car sense how much resistance the wipers encounter, improving detection of rain, grime, ice, and even blade wear. This innovation eliminates dry wipes and allows for smarter, more responsive windshield cleaning. Other enhancements to wiper, defrost, and defog controls are also confirmed for the upcoming FSD v14.3 update, making winter driving smarter and less hands-on for owners.
Camera visibility alerts get a larger UI in FSD v14.3
FSD v14.3 upgrades camera visibility alerts with a much larger, clearer pop-up warning directly over the car's visualization, complete with a high-resolution camera image and explicit instructions. This makes it easier for drivers to quickly spot which camera is obscured by dirt, debris, or water, eliminating guesswork and streamlining sensor maintenance.
FSD gets the green light in Europe, starting with the Netherlands
Full Self-Driving (Supervised) has finally received regulatory approval in the Netherlands, marking its European debut after 18 months of rigorous testing, though it is not available EU-wide yet. Although this is a milestone, the system still requires active driver supervision, and broader approval depends on further review by the European Commission and member states.
Insurance & Safety
Safety Score v3.0 rewards FSD use with lower premiums
The insurance program is being updated so miles driven with Full Self-Driving (FSD) Supervised now automatically receive a perfect Safety Score, potentially lowering premiums for frequent FSD users. Manual driving continues to be rated on previous safety metrics, but the more you use FSD, the better your overall score and, potentially, your insurance rate. The revision only applies to new policies in select U.S. states, and other traditional risk factors are now only applied to miles without driver assistance.
Rave Cave accent lights become a blind spot safety feature in the 2026 update
The popular "Rave Cave" interior accent lighting in the Model 3 Highland and Model Y Juniper is being turned into an important safety upgrade: the lights now turn red when another vehicle is detected in the blind spot with the turn signal active, or when cross-traffic approaches as you back out. This improves how drivers notice blind spot warnings, supplementing current alerts on the A pillar and center touchscreen.
Software Updates
Spring Update 2026
Spring Update 2026 is a broad software release that starts rolling out shortly and adds a new Self-Driving app, "Hey Grok" voice activation, improved trip and weather views, new Pet Mode options, dashcam upgrades, and automatic overnight installs. Some of the headline features are limited to newer hardware, including the Self-Driving app for AI4 vehicles and upgraded visuals for newer Model 3 and Model Y, while Model S and X get new avatar customization options like wraps and license plates. Overall, it looks like a larger-than-usual seasonal update focused on convenience, personalization, and making Tesla’s software features easier to discover and use.
Hardware Updates
New Zen Grey interior launches for Model Y in China, replacing white
A Zen Grey interior has been introduced for the five-seat Premium Model Y built at Giga Shanghai, replacing the previous white option with a softer, unified light-grey design that creates a brighter, warmer cabin. The update, which does not add cost, is already appearing in customer deliveries in China and extends to export markets like Australia, Japan, and South Korea. Minor exterior tweaks, including dark badges and optional wheels, are also part of the refresh.
Roadster & Semi
Roadster unveiling set for later this month: key expectations
The long-awaited Roadster update is finally set to be unveiled later this month, and enthusiasts expect no compromises on its original, audacious vision. The car must deliver hypercar performance, a focused, driver-centric experience free from excessive safety tech and Full Self-Driving features, and include the promised SpaceX cold-gas thruster option to truly set it apart.
First look inside the Semi factory in Nevada 📹
An exclusive early look inside the new Semi truck factory in Nevada shows a setup built for high-volume production using advanced robotics and an innovative overhead conveyance system. Key upgrades include cube-shaped, structural battery packs and a fully electric steering system derived from the Cybertruck, all focused on durability and manufacturing efficiency. The plant aims to produce up to 50,000 Semis annually, with dedicated high-power Megacharger stations, and is about to move from startup to mass production later this year as it tries to convince the logistics industry to shift to electric freight.
Model S & X
Final ‘Signature Series’ run of Model S and X Plaid starts at $159,420, invite only
Tesla is reportedly doing an invite-only final "Signature Series" run of its Plaid flagships: 250 Model S units and 100 six-seat Model X units, starting at $159,420. The special editions add exclusive Garnet Red paint, gold badging, white Alcantara interiors, numbered Signature plaques, yoke steering, unique lighting, and other cosmetic extras, while the Model S also gets carbon ceramic brakes with gold calipers. Tesla is also planning a May celebration event for buyers.
🤓 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.
FSD: Full Self-Driving