Tesla is preparing to roll out its new Autopilot 4.0 hardware upgrade, according to a filing with European regulators.
The automaker is expected to announce a new Autopilot/Self-Driving hardware package, referred to as Hardware 4.0 (HW4), at any time.
There have been quite a few signs that some big changes are on the way. For example, after removing radar sensors from its hardware package, we learned in December that Tesla plans to add one as soon as this month.
In addition, we also reported on a Tesla Model 3 concept car that potentially featured a new set of Autopilot/Full Self-Driving hardware.
A report from China also showed that Tesla has asked regulators for some modifications to its vehicles, including new autopilot cameras.
Now Tesla has done the same in Europe, where it applies to regulators in the Netherlands for changes to its vehicles.
The Tesla Forum TFF has a neat tracker to follow all the changes the automaker requests with the regulator, and revealed a new app for Model S and Model X with a significant list of changes:
- Introduction of the fourth generation complex vehicle control system (autopilot)
- Introduction of new car computer and GNSS antenna
- Introduction of Gen3 inverters to drive units ######m1#
- Switch to automatic high beam and dipped beam sensor
- Model X Brake System Application Unification
- Introduction of the new suspension arm for the Model X interior rearview mirror
- Manufacturer Engine Code Update
- Vehicle Rear Badge Update
- Upgrade to the maximum vehicle speed of the vehicle
It confirms that Tesla is about to release the new Autopilot 4.0 hardware and it will include a new computer.
With Tesla now filing with regulators, it’s fair to expect that the launch of the new hardware is imminent.
CEO Elon Musk recently commented on the introduction of Hardware 4.0, and while he didn’t release any details about the upgrade or its timing, he did confirm that Tesla doesn’t plan to offer mods for older models.
Interestingly, more changes are being introduced at the same time, including a new drive inverter, although no further details are available.
Also, this is the new rear badge for the curious:
The new top speed appears to be tied to the Plaid models, which have yet to deliver on Tesla’s original top speed promises when it first announced its new top-of-the-line models.
The automaker has been limiting top speed in software until it can release its carbon ceramic brake kit to improve braking performance and make that incredible 200 mph (322 km/h) top speed safer.
As we previously reported, a Tesla Model S Plaid owner has already managed to beat that top speed by unlocking the speed limiter in Tesla’s software.
