As the holiday season kicked off, Tesla continued its rapid pace of innovation with several key developments. The company introduced a stripped-down version of the Model 3 in Europe while also rolling out an updated iteration of Full Self-Driving (FSD) software.
Key Takeaways
- Tesla now offers FSD supervised mode to customers and journalists as passengers for testing purposes across three European countries.
- In the U.S., Tesla CEO Elon Musk announced that version 14.2.1 of FSD allows drivers to not actively monitor traffic under certain circumstances, a significant milestone in autonomous driving technology.
- Tesla also introduced an entry-level Model 3 variant for Europe and received praise from DHL after testing the Semi electric truck.
German enthusiasts were among the first to experience FSD as passengers during test drives. The system handled traffic challenges around Hannover impressively, even though it once bumped into a shopping cart while parking near a supermarket.
The Auto Bild magazine team in Berlin reported positive feedback after their ride-along with the Model 3 equipped with FSD Supervised. They noted only one instance where the safety driver had to intervene due to misinterpreting a one-way street sign.
In the U.S., Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk announced an important update for customers: Version 14.2.1 of Full Self-Driving software can now allow drivers to not actively monitor traffic under certain conditions, marking a significant leap towards full autonomy. This change reflects Tesla’s continued commitment to advancing autonomous driving technology.
While there’s excitement around these developments, some concerns remain. A well-known electric vehicle workshop warned about potential issues with LG batteries used in Model 3 and Y vehicles from China.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is FSD Supervised available to all Tesla owners?
No, currently it’s only offered as a passenger experience for testing purposes in select European countries. U.S. customers who have purchased the feature can use it after paying.
What are some potential issues with LG batteries used in Model 3 and Y vehicles?
The workshop warned about possible battery degradation or performance issues, but Tesla hasn’t confirmed any widespread problems yet.
Tesla’s latest updates show the company is pushing boundaries when it comes to autonomous driving technology. With ongoing testing and improvements, fans can look forward to even more exciting developments in 2026.
