What is Tesla AI4.5?
Tesla AI4.5 is a new version of Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) computer, found in some new Model Y vehicles.
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Automotive / Technology
Tesla Quietly Ships Model Y with New AI4.5 Computer
Tesla has begun shipping Model Y vehicles equipped with a new AI4.5 computer, a quiet upgrade to its Full Self-Driving (FSD) hardware. This move addresses the gap between current hardware capabilities and the delayed AI5 chip, ensuring newe...
Key Insights
- New Model Ys are being delivered with "Hardware 4.5" (AI4.5) computers.
- The AI4.5 computer may feature a three-SoC design, a change from the dual-SoC architecture of HW4.
- Tesla delayed the AI5 chip to mid-2027, creating a need for an intermediate solution like AI4.5.
- The emergence of AI4.5 raises questions about the long-term viability and FSD capabilities of vehicles with older hardware (HW4).
In-Depth Analysis
Tesla is quietly rolling out its new AI4.5 computer in Model Y vehicles. Owners of Fremont-built Model Ys delivered in late December and January have discovered the new hardware, labeled "AP4.5" or "AP45." This upgrade includes a new front camera housing and a 16-inch center display in some models. The part number (2261336-02-A) matches a previously spotted FSD computer in Tesla’s Electronic Parts Catalog.
The AI4.5 computer is rumored to feature a three-SoC (System-on-Chip) design, a significant change from the dual-SoC architecture used since Tesla’s HW4 computer. This change could provide more compute power, enhanced redundancy, or serve as a bridge to the upcoming AI5 chip. Tesla has been hyping its next-generation AI5 chip for over a year, but its release has been delayed to mid-2027.
**Why does this matter?** The introduction of AI4.5 suggests that Tesla’s software is outpacing its hardware. The neural networks powering FSD are growing in size and complexity faster than Tesla’s in-car computers can keep up. For current owners, the emergence of HW4.5 raises questions about whether HW4 vehicles might eventually face similar limitations, and whether HW4 vehicles will be able to deliver full self-driving. Historically, Tesla has a pattern of promising that its vehicles have “all the hardware necessary” for self-driving, only to introduce new hardware generations that outpace the old ones without ever delivering the promised unsupervised self-driving capability. With the existence of AI4.5, those buying a new Tesla should check before signing anything to ensure they know what hardware they are getting. It would be wise not to factor in future self-driving capability into their purchase decision, and just buy a Tesla because you like the car as it is today. If FSD ever actually works, consider it a bonus.
FAQ
Why is Tesla releasing AI4.5?
It serves as a stopgap measure to bridge the gap between current hardware capabilities and the delayed AI5 chip.
How does AI4.5 differ from HW4?
AI4.5 may feature a three-SoC design, offering more compute power and redundancy compared to HW4's dual-SoC architecture.
What does this mean for existing Tesla owners with HW4?
It raises questions about the long-term viability and FSD capabilities of HW4 vehicles.
Takeaways
- Tesla is shipping Model Y vehicles with a new AI4.5 computer.
- AI4.5 is likely a response to delays in the AI5 chip and the increasing demands of FSD software.
- Potential buyers should check which hardware version is included in their new Tesla.
- Existing Tesla owners with HW4 may face limitations in future FSD capabilities.
Discussion
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Sources
Disclaimer
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