Does Tesla's unmonitored FSD need a front camera?

Tesla is working intensively on the further development of its Full Self-Driving (FSD) system. In view of the upcoming introduction of unmonitored FSD - especially as part of the Robotaxi operation - the question arises as to whether a front bumper camera will be required in the future to make autonomous driving maneuvers safe.

Technical background and current developments
New models such as the Cybertruck, Cybercab and the updated Model Y already have a front bumper camera. Currently, this camera is mainly used for parking and off-road functions. Especially for functions such as Actually Smart Summon, where the vehicle makes a small forward or backward movement before leaving a parking space, the camera helps to better detect obstacles. Some vehicles have already made slight contact with objects as a result of this slight movement, leading to investigations by the NHTSA.

Role of the front bumper camera for unmonitored FSD
With the transition to unmonitored FSD - a system that is already being tested in pilot projects in certain US states - the front bumper camera is becoming increasingly important.

Safety aspects: An additional camera on the front bumper can help monitor the large blind spot that occurs when a vehicle is started from sleep mode.
Data integration: Tesla is already collecting footage from these cameras to train future FSD models to optimize navigation in complex environments.
Areas of application: While the camera will likely initially be used primarily for parking maneuvers and slow driving, it could later play a critical role in full autonomy, especially in urban robotaxi networks.

Challenges and future integration
The integration of an additional camera is technically challenging. Retrofitting existing models is complex, as extensive cabling work is required. Tesla The AI4 relies on existing hardware, such as the AI4 computer, which has sufficient computing power, although memory optimizations remain necessary.
The introduction of the next FSD versions, possibly with the new AI5 system, could further increase the need for additional camera data. This would Tesla not only improve parking manoeuvres, but also optimize navigation in densely populated areas and on freeways.

Conclusion
Although Tesla currently uses the front bumper camera mainly for complementary functions such as Actually Smart Summon, developments suggest that this camera could be an essential component for unsupervised FSD in the future. By collecting and integrating data from this camera Tesla further improve its autonomous systems and increase safety in urban robotaxi operations.