Tesla updates Model 3 software with radio, odometer, and more

When Tesla started delivering the Model 3 in July, it still hadn’t completed the software and user interface of its new electric vehicle.

The automaker has been updating the Model 3’s software since the launch and their latest update this week now brings some new (though quite basic) features.

One of the main missing features that had people puzzled was the FM radio.

A standard feature in virtually any car for decades now, some were surprised that Tesla, which makes some of the most advanced vehicles out there, didn’t include in the Model 3.

Of course, it was just an example of the incomplete software.

We have now received reports that Tesla included the feature in its latest Model 3 software update this week.

Yes, Model 3 now has the radio.

Other features recently added also include odometer, tire pressure, and energy consumption applications. All those apps have long been in the Model S and Model X, but Tesla is now adding them to Model 3.

Tesla is also adding features to the Model 3 that have been more recently introduced, like the easy entry and exit system attached to the driver’s profile.

The automaker described the feature when introducing it to Model S and Model X last month:

“Starting in this release, you can get in and out of the driver’s seat more easily. When you park, the steering wheel and driver’s seat will automatically adjust for an easier exit. After you return to the vehicle, they automatically adjust back to the recent driving profile when you step on the brake. Or, if your keyfob is linked to your driver profile, the seat and steering wheel adjust accordingly. As always, you can restore your profile by selecting it from the list.”

We are told that the Model 3’s UI is still not complete, but there has been a lot of progress since the launch and the system is now more mature – just in time for the expected start of regular customer deliveries in the next few weeks.

Electrek’s Take

While it might not seem like much, adapting all the different software applications to the different screens is actually a great task.

Going from a vertical to a horizontal screen is one thing, but the Model 3 also features a new computer platform different from the Model S and Model X.

Tesla had to adapt its code to the new computer’s Intel chips instead of Nvidia.

I find it fascinating that Tesla releases a new vehicle like that with the software clearly in beta. I suppose it plays right into their plan to first release the vehicle to employees in order to work out the early issues. I suppose we are going to have a better idea of how well it played out after their first few regular customer deliveries.