Tesla FSD Localized in China Using Internet Driving Videos

Tesla has successfully localized its Full Self Driving (FSD) software, version 13.2.6, in China by utilizing only online driving videos from the region. This method deviates from initial expectations that Tesla would require an extensive collection of driving footage collected directly in China to retrain their base model. Fortunately, the company found that it was not necessary to send data out of China, eliminating regulatory hurdles.

This innovative approach to localization suggests that Tesla's AI can adapt effortlessly to different global markets without concerns related to data transmission, a scenario that could apply similarly in Europe. The promise of unsupervised robotaxis could expand worldwide, especially with advancements expected this year with technologies like Grok3, Grok Video, and Grok 4.

The new systems will likely enhance the AI's ability to learn from videos and comprehend other languages, making it even more adept at functioning in diverse environments.

Currently, numerous driving videos from various locations across China showcase satisfied drivers using Tesla's FSD technology on urban streets and highways. The improved capabilities of this software are anticipated to boost the demand for Full Self Driving software in China while simultaneously increasing Tesla vehicle sales.

Additionally, reports indicate that the production of the newly refreshed Tesla Model Y has accelerated to 2,000 cars per day, amounting to 14,000 cars each week. This significant increase in production capacity has been successfully implemented at Tesla's factories in Fremont and Austin.

Videos highlighting Tesla FSD's operation in cities such as Chongqing and Putian have been well-received, showing impressive performance in busy traffic conditions. Users have shared their experiences, noting that the system performs exceptionally well even at night and in difficult driving situations.

Feedback from users in China suggests that Tesla FSD exceeded their expectations, demonstrating strong core capabilities without strict limitations. Users have reported successful navigation in challenging environments, such as underground parking lots, and have noted features like setting random destinations and executing U-turns effectively. Remarkably, this has been achieved without relying on a large-scale test fleet, extensive local development teams, or excessive localized data training.

Some analysts had predicted that the system might be prone to failures, but this has not been the case. The driving behavior of Tesla's FSD is noted to be quite human-like, with planning abilities comparable to the best in the industry. This indicates that, even on a vision-based system relying on a massive amount of training data from the U.S., the software has shown exceptional adaptability.

In contrast, many domestic teams face challenges with their performance being overly tailored to specific cities. A nationwide deployment of those systems is challenging and achieving adaptability across regions remains a goal. While there are still occasional issues, such as running red lights and veering into incorrect lanes, Tesla FSD's foundational capabilities already show great promise for deployment in various regions without incurring additional software development costs. The ongoing challenge lies in mastering specific driving rules, which will depend significantly on the willingness of Tesla leaders to invest in this aspect of development.

Tesla, FSD, China