Tesla’s highly anticipated Full Self-Driving (FSD) beta version 12 is expected to see a wider release later this month, according to recent reports. The FSD v12, which represents a significant shift in Tesla’s autonomous driving capabilities, has been undergoing extra testing after being rolled out to a group of over 15,000 employee vehicles known as Wave1.
Feedback from employees in the Wave1 group has been mostly positive, with many noting improvements in human-like behavior, general stability, roundabout encounters, and lane-keeping. Approximately 72% of respondents reported improvements in human-like behavior and general stability, while around 40% mentioned improvements in roundabout encounters and 37% noted improvements in lane-keeping.
Despite the positive feedback, there is a possibility of delays in the wider release of the FSD v12 due to the additional effort being put into creating a stable build for the Cybertruck. CEO Elon Musk has stated that the electric pickup truck is the lowest priority for the FSD beta. However, Tesla is continuing to monitor the deployment within the Wave1 group.
The FSD beta v12 marks a significant departure from the previous rules-based approach, as it relies more heavily on Tesla’s neural network and artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities. Over 300,000 lines of human-written code controlling functions such as steering, acceleration, and braking have been eliminated, with the neural network now handling these tasks based on real-time driving footage and object detection.
Tesla unveiled its plans for the FSD v12 last year and showcased the software in a live stream in August. The company began rolling out the beta version to employees in November. Although the initial screenshots indicated the removal of the beta designation, it appears that the version is still being referred to as a beta release.
Overall, the FSD beta v12 is expected to bring Tesla closer to achieving higher levels of autonomy and represents a major step forward in the development of self-driving technology. With improvements in human-like behavior, general stability, roundabout encounters, and lane-keeping, Tesla’s FSD v12 is generating excitement among both employees and the public alike.