Tesla begins removing ultrasonic sensors from Model Y in China

Tesla is pushing forward with its Tesla Vision program and the Shanghai-made Model Y is next on the list to lose its ultrasonic sensors (USS). The sensors are mainly used for indicating obstacles to the driver, they were a very helpful invention that made parking in thigh spots a child’s play.

Tesla began removing the sensors in Model 3 and Model Y vehicles last year in the US and Europe. The Giga Shanghai is the last factory to introduce the change and replace the USS with updated cameras. Tesla is confident its reliance on camera vision only, is the way forward.

Removing the ultrasonic sensors certainly simplifies manufacturing, there is no requirement to program the sensors to work in conjunction with the cameras which simplifies the coding as well. The sensors may be as good as they are, but they have their faults. They fail often, if they are exposed to sun for too long they tend to go haywire, and are easily damaged in even the slightest bump.

Tesla had to file an official request with the Chinese MIIT for a vehicle specification change. Thanks to that process we can see the new Model Y bumpers and wheel fenders without the sensors.

Next one up in line for the sensor removal is Tesla Model S and the Model X, the company plans to transition all of its electric cars to vision-only and the cameras will be responsible for aiding the driving in all situations and during all possible manoeuvres.

Tesla continuously updates its models, as the technology improves so do the cars. We have seen the updated Model 3 called Project Highland that is heading for its debut soon and it will be followed by Model Y Project Juniper next year.

Tesla Model Y is by far the most popular electric SUV in China and everywhere else. The company sold 315,314 units of Model Y last year in China making it the best selling EV over RMB 300,000 ($43,050) which is the most contested category of cars.

Via