Summary
- Tesla has activated the in-cabin radar in its vehicles through a software update
- The radar detects the presence of people inside the vehicle to enhance safety features
- The radar is currently available for 2022 model-year Model Y units and will likely be available for other Tesla models
- The radar uses radio waves to detect passengers more accurately than the selfie camera
- The radar system can detect and classify passengers based on their size, offering additional safety features like sending reminders to owners if a child or pet is left behind in the vehicle
Article
Tesla has recently released a software update activating its in-cabin radar feature, which has been anticipated for several years. The update, 2025.2.6, activates the in-cabin radar located above the passenger dome light in Tesla vehicles. This feature is currently only available for 2022 model-year Model Y units and later, with plans to roll out to refreshed Model 3 and Cybertruck units in the future. The feature, known as the First-Row Cabin Sensing Update, is related to Tesla’s introduction of the 4D Radar in the new Model Y.
The in-cabin radar in Tesla vehicles can detect the presence of passengers inside the vehicle and determine occupancy. This feature supports various vehicle and safety functions, such as occupancy detection for the front passenger seat. The benefit of using cabin radar is its ability to accurately detect objects and passengers within the vehicle using radio waves, providing more precise information than the selfie camera. Tesla has highlighted the 4D radar system’s capability to identify even small objects like pets or children and enhance passenger safety.
Emmanuel Lamacchia, Tesla’s Model Y Program Manager, explained in a video interview the capabilities of the 4D imaging radar system. This system detects and classifies passengers based on their size, allowing it to adjust airbags and take precautions against passengers being left behind in the vehicle. In the future, the system will protect against children or pets being left in the vehicle by sending reminders to the owner, activating the HVAC system, rolling down the window, or contacting emergency services. These features are expected to be enabled in the refreshed model in Q3.
Tesla’s Lead Cybertruck Engineer emphasized the importance of the upcoming in-cabin radar feature, as incidents related to passengers being left behind in vehicles are rare but have severe consequences. The implementation of this feature will provide an added layer of safety and protection for passengers. Tesla vehicles in the United States are expected to receive this long-awaited feature through the software update. Owners can stay informed about the latest updates in Tesla vehicles and accessories through the Teslarati Marketplace.
Overall, the activation of Tesla’s in-cabin radar feature through the latest software update brings advanced safety capabilities to their vehicles. The radar system can detect passengers inside the vehicle with precision and provide additional safety measures such as reminders and automatic actions in case of children or pets being left behind. This feature demonstrates Tesla’s commitment to enhancing passenger safety and is a valuable addition to their vehicle lineup.
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