Tesla recently initiated another round of Free Self-Driving (FSD) trials, offering both new and existing customers a 30-day trial period. Some users are also receiving extensions of about a week through emails or Tesla app notifications. These trials are an effort to introduce Tesla owners to FSD’s latest features, potentially converting more customers to paying subscribers. The trial includes Tesla’s FSD system, which typically requires a hefty upfront cost or a $99/month subscription, allowing users to explore its functionality without commitment.
The timing of these trials coincides with the Thanksgiving holiday in the U.S. on November 28th, increasing the chances of exposing non-Tesla users to FSD technology during family gatherings and road trips. This strategic overlap could lead to a wider appreciation and adoption of Tesla’s autonomous driving capabilities as users test the system in real-world scenarios. Extended trial periods allow drivers to integrate FSD into their daily routines, potentially enhancing its appeal.
Users participating in the trial receive the latest software update, 2024.32.10, which includes FSD V12.5.4.1. This version features advanced functionalities like hands-free driver monitoring and Actually Smart Summon, showcasing Tesla’s technological progress. Tesla’s Q3 2024 Earnings Call highlighted FSD’s rising adoption rates, attributed to increased visibility during events like the “We, Robot” demonstration and improvements in the system’s reliability, such as a lower intervention rate in the newest version.
Tesla has streamlined the trial rollout across North America, prioritizing owners who have yet to purchase FSD. Activation requires minimal effort from the user; once notified, the system updates automatically or prompts users to enable the feature in their vehicles. Although Tesla has rebranded FSD as “Supervised,” users must remain vigilant while using the system, as it is designed to assist—not replace—the driver.
For those already subscribing to FSD, Tesla offers an extra month free during these trials, pausing the regular payment schedule. This ensures that paying customers also benefit from the promotion. Tesla plans to gradually expand the trial to most owners in the U.S. and Canada, making FSD accessible for an extended hands-on experience while encouraging greater adoption of its autonomous driving technology.