Tesla CyberCab, Hardware Retrofits & Rivian Updates

Tesla Hardware 3 to AI4 Upgrades

DIY Conversion Details

• A Tesla owner and software engineer, Mike Kapinski, successfully upgraded a 2022 Model 3 to AI4 using parts from a 2026 Model Y Juniper.
• The process required replacing the computer and all eight cameras, though remarkably, all existing cables remained in place using adapters.
• The upgrade cost is estimated between $4,000 to $6,000 in parts, though it currently voids warranties and requires a new subscription for Full Self-Driving (FSD).

"The findings on this are fascinating because it showed that all of the cables can remain put. Just the hardware comes in."

CyberCab Launch & Las Vegas Permitting

Austin Lottery and Testing

• Tesla is running an Austin-exclusive lottery where riding in a Robotaxi multiple times enters users into a drawing to attend the upcoming CyberCab launch event.
• Public sightings across the US show CyberCabs equipped with steering wheels and pedals for initial validation testing before driverless deployment.

Las Vegas Expansion

• Clark County in Nevada approved 10 out of 5,000 requested Robotaxis for Tesla on the Las Vegas Strip.
• The approved vehicles face strict guidelines, including a 45 mph speed limit, geofenced routes, and an external human safety monitor.

Model Y Vehicle-to-Load and Roadster Updates

V2L Limitations

• North American Juniper Model Ys now support Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) charging via an $80 accessory plug.
• Early launch edition models and vehicles produced through August 2025 are incompatible, requiring an expensive $1,700 retrofitting process.

The Upcoming Roadster

• Reports indicate a high-profile Tesla Roadster event is planned in McGregor, Texas, featuring a street-legal version and a SpaceX variant with cold gas thrusters.
• The vehicle is rumored to feature hovering capabilities and extreme acceleration, potentially pushing prices into the millions.

Rivian R1 and R2 Developments

2027 R1S Captain's Chairs

• Rivian announced the most requested interior feature: six-seat captain's seating with integrated, folding cup holders for the 2027 R1S.
• The upgrade costs $1,500 but requires bundling with the Sound and Vision package.

Autonomy Roadmap

• Rivian's point-to-point autonomy will arrive for Gen 2 R1 vehicles and all R2s by the end of the year.
• A transition to Gen 3 hardware featuring LiDAR is slated for around 2028, bridging the gap toward true eyes-off autonomy.