Alchemist City

Tesla's Self-Driving Tech: HW3 Hits Its Limits

Mike Colagrossi

Tesla’s self-driving technology is evolving rapidly, but the current HW3 computer is reaching its limits. Initially introduced in 2019, HW3 (Hardware 3) was designed to enable full self-driving capabilities through future software updates. However, with the introduction of HW4, Tesla acknowledges the need for more computing power.
  • HW3 Overview: HW3 was a significant upgrade featuring custom-built Tesla chips designed to process the vast amounts of data from the vehicle’s cameras and sensors. It aimed to support Tesla’s goal of achieving full self-driving capabilities​.
  • HW3 vs. HW4: While HW3 is still capable of running Tesla’s self-driving software, HW4 offers a 5x increase in processing parameters and includes enhanced cameras and radar systems, providing a more robust platform for Tesla’s self-driving ambitions​ (Electrek)​​ (Teslarati)​.
  • Enhanced Features: HW4 also incorporates improved sensors and computational power, which significantly boost its ability to handle complex driving environments and scenarios​.
Tesla is not offering HW3 vehicles a retrofit with the new HW4 computer, as the company insists HW3 can achieve self-driving through future software updates. However, with the release of Tesla FSD v12.5, Elon Musk clarified that only HW4 vehicles are getting the update initially, and HW3 will receive it later after optimization. This shift indicates that HW3 is reaching its limits, and HW4 is now being prioritized for Tesla’s self-driving advancements.
Scroll to Top