Tesla Expands Full Self-Driving Access to Cybertruck Owners

In a significant development for Tesla and its dedicated fanbase, some Tesla Cybertruck owners are finally gaining access to the much-anticipated Full Self-Driving (FSD) feature. The feature, which has been absent since the electric pickup truck's much-publicized launch in November 2023, is now making its way to select vehicles in the Cybertruck Owners Club.

What Changed for Tesla Cybertruck Owners?

Initial reports from Cybertruck Owners Club, as highlighted by Electrek, indicate that the update has successfully been installed in the vehicles. Tesla had initially assured users that FSD access would arrive in September, coinciding with the rollout of their Autopark feature. With the latest update, it seems that they have adhered to this timeline.

Details of the Update

The received update is version 12.5.5 of the FSD software, and it initially targets Cybertrucks enrolled in Tesla's early access program. The inclusion of a vision-based attention monitoring system for drivers wearing sunglasses is one of the notable features.

Real-World Testing and Performance

One of the more exciting aspects of this update is the real-world testing conducted by Whole Mars Catalog, a prominent Tesla enthusiast account on X. They shared over 20 minutes of video footage showcasing the Cybertruck's new capabilities. The testing indicated that the FSD operates similarly to its counterparts in other Tesla models.

Driver Intervention Required

However, amidst early successes, it is crucial to note that there are still areas needing improvement. Around the six-minute and twenty-second mark in the video, the driver needed to intervene when the Cybertruck nearly collided with a median after executing an automatic left turn at an intersection. Such incidents highlight the ongoing challenges Tesla faces in perfecting its autonomous driving technology.

Future Prospects: FSD v12 and v13 Releases

The new FSD v12 is being positioned as a significant advancement, utilizing 'end-to-end neural nets' that rely purely on AI and camera inputs without additional sensors. Excitingly, a more robust version, FSD v13, is scheduled for launch in October, promising further enhancements and capabilities for Tesla vehicles.

Conclusion

As Tesla continues to evolve its self-driving technology, users can expect improvements in both software and performance. The availability of the FSD feature for Cybertruck owners marks a critical step in Tesla's journey to providing fully autonomous driving solutions.