Issue 416 - FSD Lite is here
FSD
FSD v14 Lite international rollout confirmed
FSD v14 Lite, a condensed version of Full Self-Driving aimed at older HW3 vehicles, is confirmed to be expanding to international markets after its U.S. debut. While rollout timing depends on regulatory and technical factors, regions like Canada and parts of Europe are early candidates, but countries such as China and Australia may see delays. Notably, this will be the last major FSD update for HW3 vehicles, as FSD v15 and unsupervised features will require newer hardware, with retrofits unlikely before 2027.
FSD v14 Lite release notes: new capabilities and features
Full Self-Driving v14 Lite has been released for vehicles equipped with Hardware 3, bringing over features and improvements originally developed for newer hardware. Updates include smarter navigation, enhanced handling of complex scenarios like merges and pedestrian interactions, improved comfort, and new parking and unparking options. Owners can now set specific arrival spots and customize driving speed profiles.
Optimus
Self-driving QA boosts build quality as Optimus robot line is installed
New vehicles are now autonomously driving themselves over quality control tracks at the factory, with cabin microphones detecting and reporting any squeaks or rattles directly to the team for better build quality. The first modular factory line for the Optimus robot has also been installed in Fremont, enabling rapid changes and scalability, with plans for many more lines to follow.
FSD v14 Lite completes hour-long LA rush-hour drive without input 📹
Zack shared a video showing FSD v14 Lite driving for over an hour through Los Angeles rush-hour traffic with zero human input, praising its highway performance so far.
Cybercab
Cybercab adds external microphones and speakers for emergency use
The new Cybercab introduces external microphones and speakers mounted in the B-pillars and underbody, allowing first responders to communicate with Robotaxi Support during incidents without needing to open the vehicle or lower windows. This is a step up from the Model Y Robotaxi, which required window operation for such interactions.
Definitely driving by itself 📹
The Director of Autopilot Software, Ashok Elluswamy, shared a post confirming that the vehicle shown in the Cybercab is autonomously driving itself.
Semi
Semi shows impressive stability in jackknife test on icy Alaska roads 📹
The Semi has demonstrated its ability to remain stable during a simulated jackknife scenario on icy roads, thanks to its proprietary Vehicle Dynamics Control system. The video highlights how the loaded truck can quickly regain control, offering a clear safety advantage over most diesel semis. Early feedback from fleet testing is positive for both safety and efficiency, with operators seeing better-than-expected energy consumption.
Charging
Google Maps now predicts Supercharger availability for all EVs
Google Maps has rolled out a new feature that predicts Tesla Supercharger stall availability on arrival for non-Tesla EVs with built-in Google Maps. This uses shared trip data to offer more accurate forecasts, helping drivers avoid full stations and manage trips better, provided they opt in to data sharing.
First 500 kW V4 Supercharger opens in Europe
The first true V4 Supercharger site in Europe has opened in Norway, marking the debut of full 500 kW fast-charging infrastructure. The site pairs 28 latest-generation charging posts with V4 Supercharger cabinets, doubling previous site capacity and reducing installation complexity and costs. While most current Teslas cannot fully use the 500 kW rate, the Cybertruck can, and this rollout promises much faster charging for future vehicles and a better European road trip experience.
Model Y
New storage accessories arrive for Model Y 📷
Two official storage accessories have been released for the Model Y: an Expandable Trunk Organizer and a Sub-Trunk Organizer. The trunk organizer features four expandable bins and mesh pockets tailored for the vehicle, but it does not fit the seven-seat model. The sub-trunk organizer is only compatible with 2025 and newer Model Ys, letting owners divide and customize the under-floor cargo compartment.
🤓 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
I predict v14 lite is just a way to further delay Musk's promise to HW3 owners to make our cars capable of FSD. He keeps delaying the promised hardware upgrade we need. I'll see if lite fixes any of the myriad problems with FSD non-lite that have led me, and most of my friends with HW3, to stop using "F"SD for the most part. I gave up on it after way too many close calls on both city streets and highways.