Tesla has acknowledged that vehicles equipped with its Hardware 3 platform may not achieve unsupervised full self-driving (FSD) without additional hardware upgrades, sparking anger among owners who paid thousands of dollars for the feature. The admission affects cars built since 2019.
Tesla has acknowledged that vehicles equipped with its Hardware 3 platform may not achieve unsupervised full self-driving (FSD) without additional hardware upgrades, sparking anger among owners who paid thousands of dollars for the feature. According to CleanTechnica, many customers who purchased the Full Self-Driving package years ago are frustrated by slow progress and unfulfilled promises.
What is the Hardware 3 problem?
Hardware 3 is the computing and sensor platform Tesla has used in vehicles built since 2019, which the company once promised would enable full self-driving without human intervention. However, as software evolves, it appears this platform may not meet the required safety and reliability standards, necessitating hardware upgrades.
Will the upgrade be free?
Tesla has not clarified whether upgrades will be free for customers who paid for the FSD package or if they will be charged. This uncertainty is fueling anger among owners.
Who is most affected?
The most frustrated are those who purchased the FSD package between 2019 and 2021, paying between $6,000 and $10,000, relying on Tesla’s promises that their cars would achieve full self-driving. Now they discover their hardware may be insufficient.
What does this mean for the Gulf market?
In Saudi Arabia and the UAE, where Tesla vehicles are increasingly popular, local owners may face the same issue. If upgrades are paid, costs could reach thousands of riyals, raising questions about the economic viability of early adoption.
Options for owners
- Wait: Tesla may offer a free or discounted upgrade.
- Upgrade: Pay for a hardware upgrade if available.
- Legal action: Some owners are considering class-action lawsuits over misleading promises.
How much will the Hardware 3 to 4 upgrade cost in Saudi Arabia?
Tesla has not announced official pricing for the region, but in the US, estimates suggest the upgrade could cost between $1,000 and $2,000 (approximately SAR 3,750 to SAR 7,500). Prices may vary by region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Tesla Hardware 3 cars get full self-driving?
They may need additional hardware upgrades to achieve unsupervised full self-driving. Tesla has not confirmed whether the upgrade will be free.
How much does it cost to upgrade from Hardware 3 to 4 in Saudi Arabia?
Tesla has not announced official prices, but estimates suggest USD 1,000–2,000 (approx. SAR 3,750–7,500). Prices may vary by region.
When will full self-driving be available in the Gulf?
Tesla has not set a launch date for the Middle East. Currently, FSD is available in limited countries and requires regulatory approvals.
Can I sue Tesla for misleading promises?
Theoretically yes, especially if you purchased the FSD package based on promises that Hardware 3 would support full self-driving. Some owners are considering class-action lawsuits.
Sources
- CleanTechnica — Hardware 3 Tesla Vehicles Will Get Unsupervised Full Self Driving Via Hardware Updates? Who’s Most Pissed?
