Tesla FSD Beta 11.4.7.1 Released to Employees With a Massive Amount of New Features

By Not a Tesla App Staff
Tesla adds a huge amount of features to its latest FSD Beta
Tesla adds a huge amount of features to its latest FSD Beta
Not a Tesla App

Tesla has released FSD Beta 11.4.7.1 to Tesla employees for internal testing. Although there are improvements to FSD Beta in the update, the big news is that this update comes in as version 2023.27.5, which means that it includes a massive number of features that have so far been missing in Tesla's FSD Beta.

Many owners are on Tesla's latest public FSD Beta v11.4.7 (update 2023.7.30), which includes non-FSD features up through update 2023.6. With this latest beta, Tesla includes features from three major updates, including update 2023.12, 2023.20 and 2023.26.

This amounts to a monumental release that includes over 50 new features across Tesla's models. Some of the features include the ability to customizable the scroll wheel, the new Spotify interface, support for Bluetooth game controllers, and Tesla's Charge on Solar feature. But there's so much more.

Below, we'll go through all of new, non-FSD features that are included in this massive release.

Features Included in Update 2023.12

Refresh Your Data Sharing Settings

Tesla added 'Refresh Your Data Sharing Settings' in update 2023.12
Tesla added 'Refresh Your Data Sharing Settings' in update 2023.12

Enable or disable data sharing and learn more about how Tesla uses anonymous data to improve existing safety and convenience features and create new ones.

Go to Controls > Software > Data Sharing. For more information on how we protect your data, go to www.tesla.com/privacy.

Track Mode

Tesla added 'Track Mode' in update 2023.12 for the new Model S
Tesla added 'Track Mode' in update 2023.12 for the new Model S

With Track Mode, you can now:

- Reach a top speed of 200 mph when the optional Track Pack is installed.

- Monitor vehicle health at a glance with updated visuals on the instrument panel and touchscreen.

- Extract maximum track performance using adaptive suspension, torque vectoring and traction control systems, which have been updated to improve consistency and driver confidence.

Please refer to the Owner's Manual for more details.

Phone Call Controls

Tesla added 'Phone Call Controls' in update 2023.12 for the new S/X and the Model 3/Y
Tesla added 'Phone Call Controls' in update 2023.12 for the new S/X and the Model 3/Y

Control your phone calls from the steering wheel. Use the left scroll button to answer or decline incoming calls. While you're on a call, use it to mute/ unmute yourself or hang up.

Text Size

Tesla added 'Text Size' in update 2023.12 for the Model 3/Y
Tesla added 'Text Size' in update 2023.12 for the Model 3/Y

Choose Standard or Large text size for the touchscreen.

Go to Control > Display > Text Size

Scroll Wheel Customization

Tesla added 'Scroll Wheel Customization' in update 2023.12 for the Model 3/Y
Tesla added 'Scroll Wheel Customization' in update 2023.12 for the Model 3/Y

Do more with the left scroll button on the steering wheel. You can adjust settings like brightness and Acceleration Mode, or perform actions like toggling the Camera App, opening the glovebox, and saving Dashcam footage.

Long press the left scroll button to bring up a list of functions and scroll through the list. To choose which function comes up by default, go to Controls > Display > Scroll Wheel Function.

Controls Search

Tesla added 'Controls Search' in update 2023.12
Tesla added 'Controls Search' in update 2023.12

Use the 'Search' function for quicker access to controls and settings.

Go to Controls > Search and enter a search term. Make changes directly from the result or tap the link to jump to that panel in Controls.

Gear Chimes

Tesla added 'Gear Chimes' in update 2023.12 for the Model 3/Y
Tesla added 'Gear Chimes' in update 2023.12 for the Model 3/Y

A chime now sounds when you shift gears. To toggle gear chimes, go to Controls > Safety > Gear Chimes.

Passenger Seat Controls

Tesla added 'Passenger Seat Controls' in update 2023.12 for the new Model S/X
Tesla added 'Passenger Seat Controls' in update 2023.12 for the new Model S/X

Adjust the passenger seat from the rear touchscreen to make it easier to enter or exit the rear seat. To access the passenger seat controls, tap the seat icon on the rear touchscreen. Hold one of the arrows to move the passenger seat forward or backward.

The controls are available only when the vehicle is not moving. To access the same controls from the front touchscreen, tap the App Launcher and go to the rear screen remote control app.

Points of Interest

Tesla added 'Points of Interest' in update 2023.12
Tesla added 'Points of Interest' in update 2023.12

See photos and reviews when you select a point of interest or Supercharger location.

Voice Recognition Language

Tesla added 'Voice Recognition Language' in update 2023.12
Tesla added 'Voice Recognition Language' in update 2023.12

British English is now available as a voice recognition language.

To update your voice recognition language, go to Controls > Display > Voice Recognition Language and choose an option from the list.

Get to Know Your Tesla

Tesla added 'Get to Know Your Tesla' in update 2023.12
Tesla added 'Get to Know Your Tesla' in update 2023.12

Learn basics like creating Driver Profiles, using Phone Key and regenerative braking from the 'Get to Know Your Tesla' educational experience within the new 'Manual' app. Each topic includes a visual and, if applicable, a link to the relevant feature.

The 'Manual' app also provides easy access to resources for learning much more about your Tesla, such as the on-screen Owner's Manual and online tutorial videos. Go to App Launcher > Manual.

Rename Vehicle in App

Tesla added 'Rename Vehicle in App' in update 2023.12
Tesla added 'Rename Vehicle in App' in update 2023.12
Walgermo/X

You can now set your vehicle's name through the Tesla app. To set your vehicle's name, simply tap the current name of your Tesla at the top of the app. You can then rename your vehicle and press 'OK.'

Parked Visualization

Tesla added 'Parked Visualization' in update 2023.12 for the Model 3/Y
Tesla added 'Parked Visualization' in update 2023.12 for the Model 3/Y

The vehicle visualization that appears while your vehicle is parked and contains labels to lock/unlock your car, as well as open your trunk/frunk can now be rotated to view the vehicle from different angles.

Speedometer Font

Tesla added 'Speedometer Font' in update 2023.12 for the Model 3/Y
Tesla added 'Speedometer Font' in update 2023.12 for the Model 3/Y
KyleCoolky

The font for the speedometer has been made bolder to be easier to see.

Nav Improvements

Tesla added 'Nav Improvements' in update 2023.12
Tesla added 'Nav Improvements' in update 2023.12

When searching for destinations in your vehicle’s navigation system, each destination will now display the distance in miles/km from your current location.

In addition, the map pin now looks more like a button, which brings up the destination information on the map, instead of navigating to it.

Favoriting Songs

Tesla added 'Favoriting Songs' in update 2023.12
Tesla added 'Favoriting Songs' in update 2023.12
StianWalgermo

While the functionality hasn't changed, your car will now display a plus sign (+) next to music controls to favorite a song. The plus sign replaces the heart icon in the music player.

Adjust Wiper Speed

Tesla added 'Adjust Wiper Speed' in update 2023.12 for the new Model S/X and Model 3/Y
Tesla added 'Adjust Wiper Speed' in update 2023.12 for the new Model S/X and Model 3/Y
LexBarker

You can now adjust the windshield wiper speed by using the scroll wheel on the steering wheel. First, press the button at the end of the left stalk to activate the windshield wipers and have the controls appear on the screen.

You can then tilt the left scroll wheel left/right to cycle through the various speeds of the windshield wipers.

Air Suspension

Tesla added 'Air Suspension' in update 2023.12 for the Model S/X
Tesla added 'Air Suspension' in update 2023.12 for the Model S/X
LuizFl

You now have more control over your air suspension. In the suspension menu, you now have toggles for enabling or disabling a vehicle's height or speed at a specific location.

The ride height is now also expressed in inches in the U.S.

Tesla Theater Icons

Tesla added 'Tesla Theater Icons' in update 2023.12
Tesla added 'Tesla Theater Icons' in update 2023.12
StianWalgermo

Tesla Theater now features square, app-like icons, instead of larger, horizontal logos.

App Drawer

Tesla added 'App Drawer' in update 2023.12
Tesla added 'App Drawer' in update 2023.12

All available options will now be displayed when you open the app drawer. Previously, options such as Frost Defrost and Wipers only showed up when you were customizing the launcher.

There is now a Customize button at the top of the app drawer as well.

New Labels

Tesla added 'New Labels' in update 2023.12
Tesla added 'New Labels' in update 2023.12

Tesla will now display a "NEW" badge next to new features or options. This makes new features more noticeable when scrolling through menus.

Charging Screen

Tesla added 'Charging Screen' in update 2023.12
Tesla added 'Charging Screen' in update 2023.12
Drill/TFF

The charging menu in the car has been updated to remove the car visualization and make the charging slider larger.

Features Included in Update 2023.20

Tire Service

Tesla added 'Tire Service' in update 2023.20 for the new Model S/X
Tesla added 'Tire Service' in update 2023.20 for the new Model S/X

Go to Controls > Service to see how many miles it's been since your last tire service.

When you get your tires rotated, replaced, or swapped, tap 'Reset'.

You can also go to Controls > Service > Wheel and Tire > Tire to input your tire configuration. This tells your car to reset the learned tire settings to improve your driving experience.

Tire Service Mileage

Tesla added 'Tire Service Mileage' in update 2023.20 for the Model 3/Y
Tesla added 'Tire Service Mileage' in update 2023.20 for the Model 3/Y

Go to Controls > Service to see how many miles it's been since your last tire service.

When you get your tires rotated, replaced, or swapped, tap 'Reset' to reset the counter.

Text Size

Tesla added 'Text Size' in update 2023.20 for the Model 3/Y
Tesla added 'Text Size' in update 2023.20 for the Model 3/Y

Large text size feature is now available in all supported languages.

To update your settings, go to Controls > Display > Text Size.

Windshield Wiper Control

Tesla added 'Windshield Wiper Control' in update 2023.20 for the Model 3/Y
Tesla added 'Windshield Wiper Control' in update 2023.20 for the Model 3/Y

Windshield wiper controls have now been added to the list of options that you can control in Scroll Wheel Function.

The steering wheel customization feature lets you control a variety of vehicle settings directly from the steering wheel. You simply long press the left scroll wheel and you can scroll through various settings and options such as HVAC fan speed, rear camera and more.

You can customize the list of options shown, or add the windshield wiper functionality to the list by navigating to Controls > Display > Scroll Wheel Function.

Phone Key

Tesla added 'Phone Key' in update 2023.20 for the new Model S/X and the Model 3/Y
Tesla added 'Phone Key' in update 2023.20 for the new Model S/X and the Model 3/Y

If you use your phone as a key for your Tesla, the device name that shows up in Bluetooth settings now has a more intuitive name.

The device name used to be a string of 18 characters without the word Tesla anywhere in the name, leaving some users wondering what the mystery may be.

As of this update, the vehicle key will now be displayed as "Tesla" followed by the last six characters of the vehicle's VIN.

Navigation Improvements

Tesla added 'Navigation Improvements' in update 2023.20
Tesla added 'Navigation Improvements' in update 2023.20
Garth Schanock

When searching for a destination in the vehicle's navigation system, the search results will now display which destinations are open and which are closed.

Set PIN to Drive

Tesla added 'Set PIN to Drive' in update 2023.20
Tesla added 'Set PIN to Drive' in update 2023.20

You can now enable the 'PIN to Drive' feature directly from the Tesla app. Simply navigate to Security & Drivers, toggle it on and set your PIN.

Having the ability to enable PIN to Drive in the app is useful for owners who may normally not use it, but may want to remotely enable the feature if they lose their key fob or phone.

This feature requires app update 4.21.5 or higher.

View All Cameras

Tesla added 'View All Cameras' in update 2023.20 for the new Model S/X and Model 3/Y
Tesla added 'View All Cameras' in update 2023.20 for the new Model S/X and Model 3/Y

You can now preview more than just the cabin camera in your Tesla. By navigating to Controls > Service, you can now preview all nine (eight on hardware 4.0) of Tesla's cameras. This includes being able to view all the front-facing cameras and B-pillar cameras for the first time.

You can change cameras by tapping the name of the camera at the top of the live video.

Note: These camera views are only here to give customers a better understanding of what their vehicle can see and to confirm that the cameras are working correctly. There is no additional functionality gained from this feature, at this time.

Current Trip Odometer

Tesla added 'Current Trip Odometer' in update 2023.20
Tesla added 'Current Trip Odometer' in update 2023.20

The 'Current Trip' odometer metrics have been updated with this update. Instead of displaying kWh, the Current Trip odometer will now display the number of minutes elapsed since the vehicle was put into drive.

The other odometers, such as 'Since Last Charge', 'Trip A' and 'Trip B' still display kWh.

Passenger Climate Temperature

Tesla added 'Passenger Climate Temperature' in update 2023.20
Tesla added 'Passenger Climate Temperature' in update 2023.20

The app launcher at the bottom of the screen will now only display the driver's climate setting if there is no one sitting in the passenger seat.

If someone sits in the passenger seat, the passenger temperature setting will automatically appear.

Features Included in Update 2023.26

Blind Spot Camera

Tesla added 'Blind Spot Camera' in update 2023.26 for the new Model S/X
Tesla added 'Blind Spot Camera' in update 2023.26 for the new Model S/X

Drag your blind spot camera to another location on your touchscreen. After you move the camera window, it will appear in that same position whenever your turn signal is on.

Go to Controls > Autopilot > Automatic Blind Spot Camera.

Customize the Scroll Wheel

Tesla added 'Customize the Scroll Wheel' in update 2023.26 for the new Model S/X
Tesla added 'Customize the Scroll Wheel' in update 2023.26 for the new Model S/X

Do more with the left scroll button on the steering wheel. You can adjust settings like brightness and acceleration mode, or perform actions like toggle the camera, raise suspension, open the glovebox, or save Dashcam footage.

Long press the left scroll button to bring up a list of functions and scroll through the list. To choose which function comes up by default, go to Controls > Display > Scroll Wheel Function.

Destination Closing Soon

Tesla added 'Destination Closing Soon' in update 2023.26
Tesla added 'Destination Closing Soon' in update 2023.26.10

Navigation now shows if your destination is closing soon or may be closed by the time you arrive.

Spotify Refresh

Tesla added 'Spotify Refresh' in update 2023.26
Tesla added 'Spotify Refresh' in update 2023.26.10

Play your Spotify music, playlists, podcasts, and audiobooks with a more familiar look and feel.

Go to App Launcher > Spotify. Requires Premium Connectivity.

Bluetooth Game Controllers

TTesla added 'Bluetooth Game Controllers' in update 2023.26 to the legacy Model S/X and the Model 3/Y
Tesla added 'Bluetooth Game Controllers' in update 2023.26 to the legacy Model S/X and the Model 3/Y

Use Bluetooth controllers to play games in Arcade.

To pair a controller, open the Bluetooth panel and follow the instructions.

This feature works best with PS5 controllers. Refer to the Owner's Manual for more information.

Warmer Display Colors

Tesla added 'Warmer Display Colors' in update 2023.26 to the new Model S/X and the Model 3/Y
Tesla added 'Warmer Display Colors' in update 2023.26 to the new Model S/X and the Model 3/Y

Set your touchscreen to automatically adjust to warmer colors at night.

Go to Controls > Display > Reduce Blue Light.

Automatic Headlights

Tesla added 'Automatic Headlights' in update 2023.26
Tesla added 'Automatic Headlights' in update 2023.26.10

Your lights turn on automatically when windshield wipers are activated and headlights are set to Auto in Controls > Lights > Headlights.

Charge On Solar

Tesla added 'Charge On Solar' in update 2023.26 to the new Model S/X and the Model 3/Y
Tesla added 'Charge On Solar' in update 2023.26 to the new Model S/X and the Model 3/Y

Charge your Tesla with solar energy if you have a Powerwall. You can choose how much charging comes from solar versus other sources.

To set it up, open the Tesla app for your vehicle, tap the “Charge on Solar” message, and follow the instructions. Requires Powerwall v23.12.10 and Tesla app v4.22.5.

Camera View on Tesla App

Tesla added 'Camera View on Tesla App' in update 2023.26 to the new Model S/X and the Model 3/Y
Tesla added 'Camera View on Tesla App' in update 2023.26 to the new Model S/X and the Model 3/Y

You can now see multiple cameras at once when checking your vehicle's surroundings.

To start using this feature, go to your vehicle settings in Controls > Safety > View Live Camera via Mobile App.

This feature requires Mobile App v4.22.5 and Premium Connectivity.

Vampire Survivors Game

Tesla added 'Vampire Survivors Game' in update 2023.26 to the new Model S/X and the Model 3/Y with MCU 3
Tesla added 'Vampire Survivors Game' in update 2023.26 to the new Model S/X and the Model 3/Y with MCU 3

Defend yourself against an onslaught of night creatures to survive until dawn.

To play, shift to Park (P) and go to the App Launcher > Arcade > Vampire Survivors.

Other Updates

Tesla added 'Other Updates' in update 2023.26
Tesla added 'Other Updates' in update 2023.26.10

Recents & Favorites are now in separate tabs in the Media Player.

The sliders to adjust volume, temperature, and charge limit are more precise

Sentry Mode records if someone tries to open a door or trunk when the vehicle is locked.

Access the Owner's Manual and Release Notes more quickly with the new Manual app. Read up on everything from regenerative braking to phone key or maximizing range.

Automatic Navigation shows more details about your destination.

Swiss French keyboard is available.

Availability varies by model and location.

Improved Phone Calls

Tesla added 'Improved Phone Calls' in update 2023.26
Tesla added 'Improved Phone Calls' in update 2023.26.10

When you have your climate system set to 'Auto,' the HVAC fan speed may be lowered automatically to reduce cabin noise while you're on a phone call.

Service Mode Improvements

Tesla added 'Service Mode Improvements' in update 2023.26
Tesla added 'Service Mode Improvements' in update 2023.26.10

Several new diagnostic screens have been added to Service Mode. They include the ability to test your steering wheel stalks, scroll wheels, horn and parking brake. You can now view the status and details of your airbags, low-voltage battery and the pitch of your vehicle's cameras.

Service Mode is a mode that's typically reserved for service technicians, although it can be accessed by anyone. It is used to view information and test various aspects of a vehicle.

Supercharging Details

Tesla added 'Supercharging Details' in update 2023.26.10
Tesla added 'Supercharging Details' in update 2023.26.10
Zer

When charging your vehicle at a Tesla Supercharger, your vehicle will now display more details about the Supercharging session.

On the Charging screen (Controls > Charging), your Tesla will now display the price per kWh you're being charged, as well as the total energy charged.

This is in addition to the Supercharger location and the total cost for the Supercharger session, both of which were added in prior updates.

Automatic Navigation Improvements

Tesla added 'Automatic Navigation Improvements' in update 2023.26.10
Tesla added 'Automatic Navigation Improvements' in update 2023.26.10
BabyTesla/X

If you have Automatic Navigation enabled in your Tesla, you'll now be presented with your suggested destination when you enter your vehicle.

The popup on the screen will display your destination, your ETA, battery upon arrival, as well as a photo of your destination if available.

You can begin driving to automatically start the route, or you can cancel the suggested destination.

Note: You can turn on Automatic Navigation by going to Controls > Navigation and enabling Automatic Navigation.

Updated Apps Badges

Tesla added 'Updated Apps Badge' in update 2023.26
Tesla added 'Updated Apps Badge' in update 2023.26.10

Similar to the "New" badges that Tesla added in update 2023.12 that signify which features are new in menus, Tesla will now display a blue dot underneath each app that is new or has been updated.

Daily Charge Limit

Tesla added 'Daily Charge Limit' in update 2023.26
Tesla added 'Daily Charge Limit' in update 2023.26.10

The recommended daily charge level has been updated for some vehicles. Depending on your vehicle, the types of batteries it uses and where it was manufactured, Tesla may have lowered the recommended daily charge limit.

Updated Manual App

Tesla added 'Updated Manual App' in update 2023.26.10
Tesla added 'Updated Manual App' in update 2023.26.10
Tico/X

Software Release Notes are now part of the Manual App, which already houses the owner's manual and tutorials. The app's icon has also been updated slightly.

You can tab between the three sections of the app by tapping on the names near the top.

The Release Notes' left column has been simplified and now only lists the name of the new feature, instead of the category such as "Climate Control Improvements."

Tesla’s Charging Snake and Upcoming V4 Wireless Charging Compatibility

By Karan Singh
Not a Tesla App

The Ride the Lightning podcast recently featured Tesla’s VP of Engineering, Lars Moravy, covering a wide range of topics—including the upcoming Model S and Model X refresh. However, some of the most intriguing details came from his comments on Tesla’s charging technology.

Moravy revisited Tesla’s once-hyped robotic charger snake, which was showcased years ago before quietly fading from the spotlight. He also dropped an interesting remark about wireless charging but didn’t go into detail.

Death of the Charger Snake

When discussing the Charger Snake, Lars had some strong opinions. It was an internal Tesla project that never gained much traction because engineers ultimately felt it wasn’t necessary.

At Superchargers, most people leave their vehicles to grab food, a drink or simply stretch—making manual plugging the vehicle in a non-issue. There was little justification for a complex, maintenance-heavy robotic charger, especially considering the challenges it would face in winter conditions. Just imagine the nightmare of keeping it operational in snow and ice.

But what about autonomous charging? As Tesla moves toward full autonomy, vehicles will need a way to charge without human intervention. And it isn’t like a Robotaxi passenger is going to like the idea of getting out of their vehicle to plug in either - which would ruin the seamless experience.

Wireless Charging and V4 Superchargers

Not a Tesla App

That’s exactly where Tesla’s wireless charging comes in. We got an early glimpse of its design during the We, Robot autonomy event, where the Cybercab was shown charging wirelessly—without a traditional charging port.

Compared to complex robotic systems for handling charging cables, wireless charging is a far more practical solution. A simple charging mat eliminates the need for moving parts while allowing vehicles to charge without human intervention.

In the future, Supercharger stations will likely support both wired and wireless charging, enabling Cybercab users or owners to charge their vehicles while sleeping, watching video content, or simply relaxing—without ever needing to step outside. Wireless charging may also be cheaper to install than a complete Supercharger stall, which Tesla is now able to install for below $40k per stall.

And here’s the most exciting part. When asked whether wireless charging would require new infrastructure, Lars hinted:

“Could be. But we’re making some smart plays about that with the new V4 Superchargers…”

This suggests that as Tesla expands its V4 Supercharger network, it will include wireless charging capabilities in the upcoming V4 cabinets. While every stall won’t need wireless capabilities, having the ability to add a few wireless chargers per major location will be enough to kickstart Tesla’s Robotaxi network.

Cybertruck Wins Best Tech Award by MotorTrend; Tech Coming to Other Teslas

By Karan Singh
MotorTrend

The Cybertruck has been named MotorTrend’s 2025 Best Tech Winner for chassis technology—but surprisingly, not for its stainless steel exterior. Instead, the award recognizes its Steer-by-Wire system.

Steer-by-Wire is a technology that many automakers have explored for years, but Tesla was the first to bring it to mass production. Now, tens of thousands of Cybertrucks across North America are driving with this cutting-edge innovation.

As one reviewer put it, “Steer-by-Wire feels as natural as riding a bicycle.”

What is Steer-by-Wire?

Most modern cars use a rack-and-pinion steering system, which creates a mechanical link between the steering wheel and the front wheels. To make steering easier, most vehicles incorporate hydraulic or electric power assist, reducing the effort needed to turn the wheels.

The steering ratio determines how many turns of the steering wheel are needed to move the front wheels from lock to lock. In most cars, this requires 3 to 3.5 full turns, translating to a ratio between 12:1 and 20:1.

Some high-performance sports cars also feature adaptive variable-ratio steering, which adjusts based on speed. At higher speeds, the ratio becomes less aggressive, allowing for added precision and control.

How it Works

The Cybertruck uses a fully electronic Steer-by-Wire system, eliminating any mechanical connection between the steering yoke and the wheels. Instead, the yoke sends inputs to a computer, which then controls independent electric motors dedicated to steering the front and rear wheels.

This redundancy ensures that even if one steering motor fails, the vehicle remains steerable through the other. Tesla also built in a backup power system—one motor runs on 48V low-voltage power, while the truck’s high-voltage battery powers the other.

The steering inputs are triple-redundant, with two primary sensors monitoring wheel angles and a third acting as a tie-breaker. If the two primary sensors detect conflicting data, the tie-breaker determines the correct reading, and the system alerts the driver to pull over safely if needed. Tesla’s engineering played a key role in the Cybertruck earning a 5-star safety rating.

Beyond safety, the system also features a variable steering ratio. At low speeds, such as in parking lots, the ratio is around 5:1, making tight maneuvers easier. At higher speeds, it adjusts to around 12:1 for greater stability. Unlike traditional steering wheels, the Cybertruck’s yoke maxes out at 340 degrees, removing the need for hand-over-hand turning.

The system is surprisingly intuitive. According to MotorTrend, it only took them three turns to get comfortable with how the Cybertruck steers, describing it as feeling almost natural.

Because of how the steering is designed, there’s rarely a need to remove your hand from the yoke—unless you’re using FSD. Whether navigating a tight parking lot, off-roading, or cruising on the highway, maneuvering a full-size truck has never been this effortless.

Rear-Wheel Steering

With the Cybertruck’s ability to turn its rear wheels, driving it feels almost effortless. Even if you’re not a fan of its design, we highly recommend visiting a Tesla showroom and taking one for a spin—you won’t regret it. The Cybertruck delivers one of the most enjoyable driving experiences, something you’d never expect from its bulky stainless steel exterior.

At low speeds, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction of the front wheels, greatly reducing the turning radius for tighter maneuvers. At higher speeds, they turn in the same direction as the front wheels, allowing for smooth, stable lane changes without requiring dramatic steering adjustments. This makes highway driving feel remarkably fluid and controlled.

Steer-by-Wire Coming to More Models

Tesla has already confirmed that future vehicles will adopt features pioneered by the Cybertruck, with Steer-by-Wire being one of them. Since this technology requires a 48V low-voltage architecture, Tesla’s VP of Vehicle Engineering, Lars Moravy, mentioned on the Ride the Lightning podcast that it will be introduced in future models. Moravy also mentioned that the Model S and Model X will be updated later this year, potentially being the first models to take advantage of this.

The main challenge lies in transitioning to a 48V supply chain. Eventually, all Tesla vehicles will operate on 48V, likely incorporating Steer-by-Wire as well. This change should result in simplified parts, easier repairs, and improved handling.

As MotorTrend put it, when Cybertruck engineers replaced the traditional intermediate shaft with a ribbon cable, they didn’t just redefine how to steer a truck—they set the stage for the future of the entire industry.

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