Tesla upgrades Model Y self-driving hardware to lift China sales

TESLA has upgraded the self-driving hardware on Model Y sports utility vehicles in China, in the latest move to boost sales in the world’s biggest auto market.

The Model Y will now carry Tesla’s HW 4.0 autonomous driving function hardware, such as upgraded cameras and on-board computer, at no added cost, Tesla said on its official WeChat account on Thursday (Feb 1). The SUV, which starts at 258,900 yuan (S$48,567), will also be available in three new colours – red, silver and grey – in addition to the current choice of black, white and navy.

HW 4.0, which provides a longer detection range, stronger perception ability and better computing power, has already been deployed on Tesla’s premium S and X models, as well as some Model Ys outside China.

The automaker, which once dominated the world’s largest electric vehicle (EV) market, is making a push to retain its position as domestic manufacturers from BYD to Li Auto and Geely Automobile Holdings roll out a broader array of EVs. It started a promotional tour of its futuristic-looking Cybertruck last month in China, although the model is not available in the nation.

It has also continued to cut prices, last month slashing the price of its Model 3 sedan by 6 per cent. When it released earnings last week, Tesla warned of weaker sales growth in 2024. BLOOMBERG