Tesla is preparing the next big step for the presentation of its Autopilot and FSD visualizations. According to firmware findings by the well-known Tesla hacker Greentheonly, Tesla is replacing the previously used Godot Engine with the Unreal Engine, one of the most powerful graphics engines in the world.
More details and realism thanks to Unreal Engine
Until now, Tesla relied on the open-source engine Godot, which is optimized for simple and efficient representations. With the switch to the Unreal Engine, Tesla aims to enable significantly more realistic and smoother visualizations in the future. The Unreal Engine is known from AAA video games with photorealistic graphics – and therefore offers enormous potential to elevate the display in the Tesla cockpit to a new level.
Initial activated test models in the firmware code already show smoother vehicle representations with better lighting. Initially, it is likely to remain an optically improved version of the existing visualizations before Tesla adds new objects and functions.
What innovations are to be expected?
Tesla plans to expand the visualizations step by step. Possible enhancements include:
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3D terrain representations for better orientation
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more realistic vehicle models for trucks, trailers, or limousines
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display of additional objects like guardrails, cones, road signs, or construction site barriers
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smoother movements without flickering or size changes in passing vehicles
Another highlight could be the integration of 3D maps – similar to Google Maps. This would give drivers an even better overview, as the visualizations are more closely aligned with reality.
Advantage: More trust in FSD
The visualizations on the display are a crucial factor for drivers to trust their vehicle's FSD capabilities. When obstacles, road markings, or vehicles are displayed clearly and in detail, acceptance of the assistance systems also increases.
Elon Musk had already announced in 2022 that he wanted to expand the display of 3D environments. With the move to the Unreal Engine, the technical basis is now being created.
Hardware requirements
Since the Unreal Engine is more powerful but also more resource-intensive, it will initially only be available on AMD-based vehicles (MCU3) – such as in the Model S and Model X. Vehicles with older Intel hardware (MCU2) are unlikely to receive the new visualizations. In the long term, Tesla could also introduce a new infotainment system that is more upgradeable.
When is the update coming?
The feature is not yet active. Initial code hints can be found in the firmware 2025.20 and newer, so far exclusively on the AMD versions of Model S and X. A rollout could occur as part of a larger UI update or with the traditional Holiday Update.
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