For Tesla vehicles equipped with the Hardware 3 platform, which have been sold since 2019, the FSD package was available at a price of $6,800 or $10,000. The company claimed that these vehicles had everything necessary for autonomous driving and would be able to receive the corresponding features through software updates. However, the manufacturer has now withdrawn this promise.

Hardware 3 Limitations

Cars with Hardware 3 cannot achieve full autonomy through software updates alone. The main reason is insufficient hardware performance—specifically, the memory bandwidth of HW3 is about one-eighth that of Hardware 4.

Possible Solutions for Owners

Tesla is considering two options for affected owners: offering a discount on upgrading to a newer model with Hardware 4, or the possibility of upgrading their current vehicle. It is still unclear whether the upgrade will be free, but it is known that the process will be complex and require replacing not only the computer but also the cameras. Special production lines may be set up for such upgrades, but the timeline for implementation has not yet been determined.

Owners' Reactions

There is growing frustration among Tesla owners. Many are demanding a free upgrade or a refund, as they expected the company to fulfill its original promises. The offer to trade in their car with a discount is not popular, since most owners prefer to keep their vehicles and avoid additional expenses.

Legal Consequences

The issue may take on legal significance. In the United States, one owner has already secured a full refund for the FSD package through the courts. In Europe, collective actions are being organized by dissatisfied owners against the company.