American EV giant Tesla has just been granted the necessary European certificate to release its latest FSD Hardware 4.0 (HW4) to the Model S and X vehicles. With the upgrade, these Tesla models are expected to become the most innovative EVs in the world.
The EC Type-Approval Certificate (for a vehicle) was issued by the Dutch vehicle authority RDW, dated January 20, 2023.
Improvements
Apart from the HW4, the certificate also revealed that Tesla would adjust some of the features of the Tesla Model S/X.
The European Certificate data revealed that the Model S’ factory-set top speed is now 174 MPH (280 km/h).
Meanwhile, Tesla Model S owners can increase the car’s top speed to 200 MPH (322 km/h) by purchasing the optional Carbon Ceramic Brake Kit. Not a Tesla App noted that the automaker might also launch the kit soon.
Furthermore, Tesla is expected to include the following technologies in the new system based on the approved European updates:
· advanced generation 4 vehicle control system (Autopilot)
· new computer that will be four times as powerful as FSD 3’s
· new navigational GNSS antenna
· automatic Dipped and Main Beam Sensor changes
· unified braking system application for the Model X
· new stay arm for the internal rearview mirror of the Model X
· manufacturer’s engine code update
· modification to the vehicle’s rear badging
· additional new 5MP autopilot cameras
· HD radar for the HW4
FSD Hardware 4.0 (HW4)
Tesla has yet to reveal the relevant information about the 4th generation Autopilot hardware. Nonetheless, we know that the EV giant has no plans to retrofit its current EV fleet, as CEO Elon Musk noted in the company’s Q4 earnings call.
CEO Musk explained that the retrofitting process is very costly and complex.
“…cost and difficulty of retrofitting hardware 3 with hardware 4 is quite significant. So, it would not be, I think, economically feasible to do so.”
Tesla CEO Elon Musk
As for the schedule, Tesla’s release of the new FSD hardware is yet to be revealed. Previous reports suggested it may reach the market after Cybertruck‘s highly anticipated debut. However, it must be noted that the electric pickup truck will only enter limited production in 2023 and gradually increase to full scale in 2024.
As soon as the Tesla Model S and X vehicles are delivered to customers, we will probably learn more about FSD hardware 4.0.
