Tesla continues to evolve its vehicles through hardware and software innovation. One of the most significant shifts in recent years is the transition from Hardware 3 (HW3) to Hardware 4 (HW4) in the Tesla Model Y.
For Tesla buyers, this raises several key questions:
· What exactly changed between HW3 and HW4?
· When did the upgrade roll out in North America?
· How can I check if my car has HW3 or HW4?
· Do these changes improve the real driving experience today?
· Which accessories are best suited for each hardware version?
This comprehensive guide will cover all of these questions with verified data, global rollout details, U.S.-specific insights, and practical buying advice.
1. HW3 → HW4 Rollout Timeline
North America (Fremont Factory – Starting May 2023)
· In late May 2023, Fremont began equipping some Model Y Long Range and Performance trims with HW4.
· Deliveries were mixed throughout 2023—buyers could receive either HW3 or HW4 in the same month.
· HW4 cars were identifiable by larger side cameras and a dual-lens front camera housing.
· No official Tesla press release; information came from owner reports and vehicle teardowns.
China (Full Switch on February 1, 2024)
· Tesla officially confirmed that all Model Y units from Shanghai Gigafactory switched to HW4.
· Specs: 5MP cameras, 20-core CPU (vs 12 in HW3), frequency boost from 2.2GHz to 2.35GHz.
· Prior to this, in October 2023, Tesla service representatives publicly stated Autopilot hardware was still 3.0.
Europe (Berlin Factory – Early 2024)
· HW4 phased in gradually during 2024.
· Tesla paired the rollout with exclusive paint colors such as Quicksilver.
⚠️ U.S. Buyer Takeaway: If you purchased your Model Y in mid-to-late 2023, you may have either HW3 or HW4. From 2024 onward, most Fremont builds default to HW4.
2. HW3 vs HW4: Key Differences
To help visualize the differences, here’s a side-by-side comparison:
|
Feature |
Hardware 3 (HW3) |
Hardware 4 (HW4) |
Real-World Impact |
|
Camera Resolution |
1.2 MP |
5 MP (4x higher) |
Sharper image capture, better low-light vision, improved object detection |
|
Front Camera Setup |
Triple lenses |
Dual lenses (1 dummy slot) |
Simplified housing, easier verification |
|
Side Camera Housing |
Slim, compact |
Larger housings |
More noticeable and protective covers required |
|
CPU |
12 cores, 2.2 GHz |
20 cores, 2.35 GHz (Samsung Exynos) |
3–5x theoretical power, but software still catching up |
|
Radar Support |
Limited |
Supports Phoenix radar |
Future-ready for sensor fusion |
|
Motherboard |
Older layout |
Redesigned, new gateway chip supplier |
Improved data handling, but not retrofittable |
|
Market Rollout |
2019–2023 |
Began May 2023 (U.S.), Feb 2024 (China full switch) |
HW4 is the default in 2024 builds |
�� Summary: HW4 brings higher-resolution cameras, stronger computing power, and expanded sensor capabilities. However, the benefits depend on Tesla’s software updates.
3. Limitations and Buyer Considerations
· No retrofit option: HW3 vehicles cannot be upgraded to HW4 due to completely different architecture.
· Software lag: HW4’s full power isn’t realized yet because Tesla’s neural networks are still optimized for HW3.
· Delivery uncertainty (2023): HW3 and HW4 vehicles were delivered in the same batches.
4. How to Verify Whether Your Tesla Has HW3 or HW4
Since Tesla hasn’t made an official U.S. announcement, owners need to verify themselves. Here are four reliable methods:
1. Check Camera Housing
· Side Cameras: HW4 housings are noticeably larger.
· Front Camera (Windshield):
o HW3 → Triple-lens setup
o HW4 → Dual-lens setup (with one dummy lens)
2. Inspect Vehicle Information on Screen
· On the touchscreen, go to:
Controls > Software > Additional Vehicle Information
· Look for “Autopilot Computer”:
o “Full Self-Driving Computer” = HW3
o “Autopilot Computer 4.0” = HW4
3. Check Build Date
· Fremont builds after May 2023 may have HW4.
· Any Model Y delivered in 2024 or later almost certainly has HW4.
4. Ask Tesla Service
· Submit a request through the Tesla app. Service teams can confirm your hardware.
✅ Quick Tip: HW4 cameras require slightly different protection covers. Always check compatibility before purchasing accessories. You can find both HW3 and HW4 versions at evaam.com.
5. U.S. Market vs Global Market
· U.S.: Quiet, mixed rollout, no official announcement.
· China: Clear cut-off on February 1, 2024.
· Europe: Gradual adoption with styling differentiators.
This means U.S. buyers must be more careful in verifying hardware and selecting compatible accessories.
6. Real-World Benefits of HW4
Safety & Vision
· 5MP cameras provide clearer inputs for FSD, especially at night and during complex turns.
Performance
· 20-core CPU theoretically processes data 3–5x faster than HW3.
· Today, much of this power remains untapped due to software limitations.
Resale Value
· HW4-equipped cars are more future-proof and attractive in the used market.
7. Best Accessories for HW3 & HW4 Owners
Protect Cameras & Sensors
· HW4’s larger side cameras need specific protective housings.
· Radar modules may require protective films.
Interior Essentials
Exterior Enhancements
Performance Add-ons
🛒 Shop all Tesla Model Y accessories at evaam.com.
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is Tesla still producing HW3 in the U.S. after 2024?
Evidence suggests HW3 production was largely phased out by late 2023, but Tesla has not made an official statement.
Q2: Does the HW4 camera upgrade make FSD significantly better today?
Not immediately. While 5MP cameras provide more detailed inputs, Tesla’s FSD performance depends on software updates.
Q3: Does HW4’s CPU improve real driving right now?
Not substantially. Tesla currently operates HW4 in “simulated HW3 mode.” Improvements will come with future OTA updates.
Q4: Can HW3 vehicles be upgraded to HW4?
No. The two systems are architecturally incompatible.
Q5: Are accessories the same for HW3 and HW4 cars?
Most interior and exterior accessories are cross-compatible. However, camera lens covers and radar protectors must be HW4-specific.
9. Conclusion: What U.S. Buyers Should Do
· If you purchased a Model Y in mid-to-late 2023, check whether you have HW3 or HW4.
· If you purchased in 2024 or later, you almost certainly have HW4.
· HW3 owners: Your vehicle remains capable today.
· HW4 owners: You’re future-proofed for upcoming FSD software.
· All owners: Invest in high-quality accessories to protect and personalize your Tesla.
⚡ Ready to upgrade your Tesla lifestyle?
Shop premium Tesla Model Y accessories—compatible with both HW3 and HW4—at evaam.com.
