Tesla, the electric car maker known for its innovative features and cutting-edge technology, has recently started to roll out a new software update that enables adaptive headlights on some of its vehicles. This feature, which was previously unavailable in many markets, is expected to improve the safety and visibility of Tesla drivers at night.
Adaptive headlights are a type of LED-matrix headlights that can adjust the brightness and direction of the beams according to the traffic conditions and road environment. Unlike conventional headlights that illuminate all the LEDs at once, adaptive headlights can dim or brighten individual pixels of the LEDs to create a more focused and efficient beam pattern.
Adaptive headlights have several benefits for Tesla drivers, such as:
- Reducing glare for other drivers and cyclists by selectively dimming individual pixels of the headlights.
- Enabling better visibility at night by keeping the high beams on longer without blinding other road users.
- Enhancing performance and efficiency by reducing energy consumption and heat generation.
How does Tesla implement adaptive headlights?
Tesla has been using LED-matrix headlights since 2021, but they have not been fully functional as adaptive headlights. This is because Tesla had to comply with local regulations in some markets that prohibited or restricted the use of adaptive headlights until 2022 or later.
However, Tesla has recently obtained certification for adaptive headlights in Europe in December 2023, which means that it can now offer this feature on its vehicles sold in Europe. The first software update that enabled this feature was version 2024.2, which was spotted on a Model 3 Highland in Germany on January 19, 2024.
The software update also included security fixes and other minor improvements. According to Not a Tesla App, the new update comes with Adaptive High Beams and Security improvements as the only documented changes.
How can Tesla owners enable adaptive headlights?
To activate adaptive headlights on their Tesla vehicles, owners need to go to the Lighting setting in their car’s touchscreen and select Adaptive High Beam. This will allow them to adjust their high beams according to their driving needs and preferences.
Adaptive headlights are currently available only on selected models of Tesla vehicles sold in Europe. It is unclear whether they will be rolled out to other markets or regions in the future. However, it is likely that they will be available soon as more Model 3 Highland deliveries begin in Europe.
Why are adaptive headlights important for Tesla drivers?
Adaptive headlights are an important feature for Tesla drivers because they can enhance their safety and comfort while driving at night or in low-light conditions. By using adaptive headlights, Tesla drivers can avoid blinding other road users with their high beams while also improving their own visibility and performance.
Adaptive headlights are also part of Tesla’s vision to become a leader in autonomous driving technology. By using advanced sensors and cameras, Tesla vehicles can detect other road users and adjust their lights accordingly. This can help prevent accidents and collisions while also reducing emissions and fuel consumption.
Tesla is known for offering many cutting-edge features in its EVs, such as Full Self-Driving Capability (FSD), Autopilot, Sentry Mode, Ludicrous Mode, etc. However, one feature that has been missing from many of its vehicles until recently is adaptive headlights. With this new software update, Tesla has finally added this feature to some of its models sold in Europe.
This feature could be a game-changer for Tesla drivers who want to enjoy a safer and more comfortable driving experience at night or in low-light conditions. It could also give them an edge over their competitors who do not offer this feature yet.
