Tesla is offering thousands of its drivers a complimentary one-month trial of its "Full Self-Driving" technology, which, despite its name, does not grant full autonomy to the vehicle. This initiative is being delivered to compatible vehicles through an over-the-air software update, as announced by CEO Elon Musk on X, formerly known as Twitter. This move allows drivers who have recently purchased Tesla vehicles, which are mostly compatible with the Full Self-Driving feature, to experience it firsthand, although it is typically a paid feature. Unfortunately, many of the older Tesla models are not eligible for this upgrade.

Offering a free trial, much like those provided by companies such as Amazon, local breweries, or Netflix, aims to entice consumers into making a purchase. After experiencing the Full Self-Driving feature, users may find themselves inclined to activate the full service, which is one of Tesla's priciest add-ons, increasing the cost of a new Model 3 by $12,000. Alternatively, Tesla offers a subscription model for this service, ranging from $99 to $199 per month, accessible via the car's infotainment system.

This large-scale rollout is not just about promoting the Full Self-Driving option. It also serves as a valuable data collection exercise for Tesla's engineers, who are continually refining the technology based on user feedback and performance data. The evolution of Full Self-Driving technology has been significant since its initial release.

In an effort to familiarize new customers with the Full Self-Driving capability, a leaked internal email from Musk revealed instructions for dealers to take buyers on a brief test drive showcasing the technology before the final delivery of their vehicle. Musk emphasized the importance of customers understanding the capabilities of the supervised Full Self-Driving system, deeming this demonstration a "hard requirement." Although the test drive is mandated across North America, including Mexico and Canada, Musk's announcement on X specified that only U.S. drivers would be eligible for the one-month free trial. It's unclear whether existing Tesla owners, who will suddenly find the feature enabled, will be offered a similar demonstration.

For those intrigued by the latest advancements in automotive technology, especially Tesla's Full Self-Driving feature, we invite you to explore more articles on our site or book a test drive directly. By booking a test drive, you can experience cutting-edge technology firsthand and see how it transforms your driving experience. Click the button below to book a test drive and discover the future of driving today.