The Tesla Cybertruck, an electric pickup that has sparked significant debate since its launch in November 2023, is finally beginning to bridge the technological gaps in its features. Recently, reports from the Cybertruck Owners Club indicate that some owners have received access to the highly anticipated Full Self-Driving (FSD) capability. This added functionality signals a significant milestone for Tesla, as the vehicle had previously launched without this driver-assistance feature – a key selling point for many potential buyers.
Tesla’s commitment to enhancing the Cybertruck experience is encapsulated in its promise to deliver FSD functionality by September. With the rollout of an updated version (12.5.5), it seems the company has kept its word, at least for those involved in the early access program. This proactive move by Tesla demonstrates its dedication to prioritizing customer feedback and ensuring that early adopters are not left behind. The FSD software update also introduces a vision-based attention monitoring system, specifically accommodating drivers who wear sunglasses, showcasing Tesla’s meticulous attention to detail.
Feedback from the Tesla community has been instrumental in understanding the practical implications of the new FSD update. One notable example emerged from the Whole Mars Catalog, a dedicated Tesla fan account, which shared over 20 minutes of driving footage using the updated FSD in a Cybertruck. The demonstration revealed the software’s operational capabilities and limitations, particularly highlighting moments that necessitated driver intervention—such as the vehicle nearly veering into a median during an automatic left turn. Such incidents provide valuable lessons in the current state of autonomous driving technologies, underscoring the importance of continuous driver engagement.
The introduction of FSD v12 marks a significant technical evolution for Tesla’s software, as it now relies on “end-to-end neural nets” using solely AI and camera inputs—eschewing traditional reliance on additional sensors. This focus on simplifying the technology could enhance reliability and reduce costs in the long run, potentially paving the way for wider adoption of similar innovations across Tesla’s vehicle line. Anticipation is building for the more robust FSD v13 update, anticipated for release in October, which aims to improve the functionality and safety of Tesla vehicles further.
As Tesla continues to navigate the evolving landscape of electric vehicles and autonomous driving technologies, the Cybertruck’s FSD rollout represents both progress and challenges. While the latest updates have garnered positive attention, the incidents observed during real-world testing remind us that the road to fully autonomous driving is far from straightforward. As Tesla moves forward, the experiences and feedback from Cybertruck owners will play a crucial role in refining these technologies, ultimately shaping the future of transportation. The transition into a more automated driving experience is an exciting frontier, and Tesla’s commitment to innovation keeps it at the forefront of this revolution.