Tesla FSD 12.5 Test — Like A Perfect, Smooth Robotaxi (CleanTechnica Video)

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As I lamented just lately, my 2019 Tesla Mannequin 3 SR+ doesn’t but have model 12.5 of Full Self Driving (FSD). Tesla is now rolling out new variations of FSD to automobiles with the newest FSD {hardware} first. Although, fortunately, David Havasi only in the near past purchased a model new Tesla Mannequin 3 Efficiency, and his automotive has model 12.5.1.3 of FSD! So, we went on one other FSD check drive to doc its present standing and attempt to establish the way it has improved (or not). You’ll be able to watch the total, unedited* video of our ~25 minute drive right here:

As you’ll be able to see within the video, the entire journey went completely. Not solely was there no must intervene wherever, it didn’t even look like there was ever a second when David felt he may should intervene. Additionally, the automotive has merely gotten smoother — coming to cease indicators and leaving them, altering lanes, merging into visitors, and many others. It actually felt like I used to be being pushed round by probably the most skilled of chauffeurs within the again seat. All the things was so easy and peaceable that I didn’t have to consider something and will simply calm down. It positively appeared like the very best trip I’ve taken in a robotaxi to this point.

Does that imply Tesla FSD is prepared for precise, business robotaxi use? Undoubtedly not! The system has to work throughout 1,000,000 miles or so with such outcomes. Simply 7 miles or so of driving isn’t sufficient to judge it or verify it’s prepared for prime time. At this level, although, it’s very arduous to say that it’s merely not enough and is way from being robotaxi succesful. At this level, all we will do is check increasingly with a purpose to see if we will establish any points and keep watch over any bigger takeaways or stats from Tesla or others.

There are a couple of different idiosyncrasies of the system in its present model that we talk about within the video. Watch the entire video (on 1.5× even in order for you) to catch all of our commentary.

I additionally received a brief abstract takeaway of the brand new Mannequin 3 Efficiency from David, significantly in comparison with his earlier 2018 model of the Tesla Mannequin 3. It has a lot better seats — each when it comes to bolstering and air flow — and a lot better suspension and dampening. These had been the largest highlights. It’s additionally depraved fast, in fact, and has the brand new small display screen within the again seat for rear passengers.

* I say “unedited” as a result of I didn’t clip something out. Nevertheless, I did file the drive in two elements, since we needed to resolve on and enter a brand new vacation spot after the primary journey, so I did should sew these two elements collectively.