Recently, Tesla introduced its FSD Hardware 4.0, also known as AI4, as an upgraded version of Hardware 3 with several advantages. The launch of this new hardware initially faced challenges with FSD and Autopilot not being accessible on newly delivered vehicles.
Today, AI4 represents the next evolution as Tesla moves closer to achieving full autonomy. While Hardware 3 is still in use and not classified as obsolete, it is crucial to determine the type of hardware your Tesla vehicle is equipped with. This is particularly important for those who have purchased or subscribed to FSD, as AI4 is expected to receive major FSD updates ahead of Hardware 3, which will require optimizations.
Let’s explore the improvements offered by AI4, the absence of a retrofit path from Hardware 3, and some simple methods to differentiate between FSD Hardware 3 and Hardware 4/AI4.
Enhancements in HW4 / AI4
AI4 introduces various enhancements, such as new cameras, upgraded electrical components and wiring harnesses, and notably, increased processing power.
The new cameras deliver enhanced resolution for improved clarity. The rear camera on AI4 boasts a resolution of 1448×938 compared to 1280×960 on Hardware 3. However, the most significant disparity lies in the front cameras. HW4/AI4 features a resolution of 2896×1876, while HW3 has a resolution of 1280×960, signifying a substantial improvement in quality. Additionally, the distinct red tint on the cameras ensures superior performance in low-light conditions. Watch the video below for a comparison between HW3 and HW4.
Elon Musk previously mentioned that HW4 is approximately 3-5 times faster than Hardware 3, although the full computing power is not yet fully utilized. We can expect to witness the complete potential of HW4 as it diverges from HW3 later this year.
Distinguishing Between HW3 and HW4 / AI4
There are several straightforward ways to determine whether your Tesla is equipped with Hardware 3 or AI4. Unfortunately, Tesla does not provide this information directly in the app or vehicle, so here are some methods to differentiate between the two.
Delivery Date
The first method is based on the model and delivery date of your vehicle. If you purchased a Model S or X after March 2023, it likely has AI4. For Model Y vehicles manufactured in the United States, AI4 was implemented after late May 2023. The updated 2024 Model 3 comes with HW4, while Model 3s from 2017-2023 are equipped with Hardware 3.
Red Camera Lenses
If you are unsure about your vehicle’s delivery date or wish to confirm, visually inspect the vehicle. HW4/AI4 cameras feature red lenses, most notably visible on the front cameras, where there are two red lenses and one black (non-functional) lens. AI4 removed the third front-facing camera due to the enhanced resolution of the cameras.
The repeater cameras also exhibit slight differences, featuring the same red tint but with a smaller and narrower turn indicator.
No Retrofit Option for HW4
Elon Musk and Tesla have clarified that unlike AP 2.5 or AP 2, there are no plans to offer a retrofit for older vehicles to upgrade to HW4. This decision is not surprising, considering the significant changes in wiring and cooling harnesses for the compute unit in AI4.
The unique form factor of AI4 makes it impractical to upgrade HW3 vehicles to AI4 through a retrofit. Such a process would be complex and costly, likely necessitating a custom solution that fits HW3 vehicles. Additionally, it would place a strain on Tesla Service. Instead, Tesla will focus on software optimizations and updates for FSD models to ensure optimal performance on Hardware 3.