BREAKING: Tesla has just launched its Full Self Driving (Supervised) software in Australia, marking a significant milestone as the first right-hand drive (RHD) country to receive this advanced technology. This launch arrives after nearly four years since the initial beta release in the United States in October 2020.
The introduction of FSD (Supervised) in Australia is crucial as it addresses unique challenges associated with regional road markings and traffic rules. Tesla’s latest update is a pivotal step toward full autonomy, even though it still requires drivers to monitor the environment and intervene if necessary. As it stands, the driver remains legally liable for any accidents that may occur.
Tesla’s FSD (Supervised) upgrade is being rolled out to select users in its Early Access Program, indicating a cautious approach to ensure safety and functionality. This strategy may disappoint some eager Tesla fans, but it reflects the company’s commitment to rigorous testing before wider release. The software update, which is available on vehicles equipped with the HW4 hardware, includes significant features such as the ability to navigate city corners and roundabouts—tasks that standard Autopilot previously struggled with.
In Australia, the FSD upgrade costs A$10,100, with existing Enhanced Autopilot users able to pay the difference to upgrade. Tesla also plans to offer a monthly subscription option to boost accessibility for more drivers. As of now, those who purchase the FSD upgrade will not automatically receive access during the Early Access phase, but will be updated once it becomes publicly available.
This launch is not just a win for Tesla; it signals a transformative moment for the Australian automotive landscape. Tesla owners have been able to purchase the FSD software since 2019, and now the technology’s deployment could pave the way for future rollouts in other RHD markets like Japan and the UK.
FSD (Supervised) will require the 2025.32 software update, which combines the latest FSD versions 12.6.4 and 13.2.9. Tesla is ensuring that their most dedicated customers are prioritized in this rollout, but the company has also committed to providing free hardware upgrades for those who purchased FSD but own older HW3 vehicles.
For Australian drivers, the FSD (Supervised) upgrade brings a host of new capabilities that extend beyond basic lane-keeping and speed control. The technology now allows cars to execute complex maneuvers, such as handling intersections and navigating without lane markings. Users internationally have reported that interventions while using FSD have become increasingly rare, suggesting that Tesla’s iterative approach has led to a refined product.
As Tesla continues to roll out FSD (Supervised) in Australia, the anticipation for driverless technology grows. Many believe that Tesla’s advancements in autonomous driving will outpace competitors like Waymo and GM SuperCruise, particularly as they currently have no plans to introduce similar technology in Australia anytime soon.
Stay tuned for further updates as Tesla’s journey toward full autonomy continues to unfold in Australia, with implications that could change the future of transportation in the region.
