Tesla has at last begun rolling out Full Self-Driving (FSD) capabilities to select Cybertruck owners, a feature promised at launch but delayed for ten months. This development marks a significant milestone for the electric vehicle manufacturer, albeit one that has tested the patience of many early adopters.
Reports of FSD activation first surfaced on the Cybertruck Owners Club forum, where an enthusiastic user shared a video demonstrating the truck navigating city streets autonomously for over a minute. The owner’s excitement was palpable, declaring, “The wait is finally over! It is real! It is here now! And it is spectacular!”
However, this long-awaited update has not been without controversy. Many customers, particularly those who purchased the limited edition Foundation Series vehicles, have expressed frustration over the extended delay in receiving a feature they paid for at launch. This situation underscores the unique relationship Tesla maintains with its customer base, often relying on their patience and loyalty as features are gradually rolled out.
The FSD update for Cybertruck runs on version 12.5.5, a step ahead of the 12.5.4 version currently operating in most Tesla vehicles. Despite this advanced status, Tesla has labeled it an “early access” version, indicating potential bugs and limiting its distribution primarily to Tesla employees and Early Access Testers.
This cautious approach to the FSD rollout likely stems from Tesla’s history with autonomous driving features. The company’s Autopilot system has faced scrutiny from US auto-safety regulators, who identified at least 13 fatal crashes involving the feature since investigations began in 2021. These incidents highlight the critical importance of thoroughly testing and refining autonomous driving technologies before widespread deployment.
Beyond FSD, Cybertruck owners are still awaiting other promised features. Tesla recently announced the addition of Auto Park functionality, but many vehicles still lack basic Autopilot-assisted cruise control. The company has also yet to deliver on its Actually Smart Summon (ASS) feature for Cybertruck, which some Model 3 owners have already received.
The delay in FSD implementation for Cybertruck is partly attributed to the vehicle’s size and complexity compared to other Tesla models. The company has taken extra time to ensure the software works seamlessly with the truck’s unique characteristics, prioritizing safety and functionality over rapid deployment.
Looking ahead, Tesla is expected to offer FSD as an optional extra for future Cybertruck purchases, mirroring its approach with other models in its lineup. However, no specific timeline has been provided for a wider rollout of the update to existing Foundation Series owners.
Tesla’s approach to feature rollouts extends beyond software. Many Cybertruck owners are still waiting for physical components such as wheel covers, the promised range extender battery (now pushed to early 2025), and the off-road Lightbar accessory. This pattern of delayed deliveries has become a hallmark of Tesla’s production and distribution strategy.
While Tesla’s most devoted fans often accept these delays as part of being early adopters, the broader market may be less forgiving. The company’s tendency to over-promise and under-deliver could potentially impact its reputation and sales as it seeks to expand its customer base beyond tech enthusiasts and early adopters.
