Tesla has confirmed that its full-self driving software suite will be offered to customers as a subscription.
In recent months, the automaker’s Full-Self Driving beta has been rolled out to a number of customers for testing but Elon Musk does want to see this testing program grow. While many other car manufacturers are taking their time with the introduction of fully-autonomous driving systems, Tesla wants to introduce its Level 5 technology next year.
Responding to a tweet from a follower asking if Tesla’s Full-Self Driving system could be paid for annually, in a move that would be particularly beneficial for those leasing a Tesla, Musk wrote, “Absolutely. We will release FSD subscription early next year.”
Absolutely. We will release FSD subscription early next year.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) December 20, 2020
Of course, in order to subscribe to the system, the vehicles of owners will also need to be equipped with the optional Full-Self Driving hardware.
Watch Also: See A Tesla Model 3 With Full Self-Driving Beta Overtake A Garbage Truck
As noted by Autoweek, no price figure has been given for the subscription as Tesla is likely still working out such details. The feature is currently available for outright purchase for $10,000, meaning the monthly subscription fee probably won’t be as affordable as your Netflix or Spotify subscription.
Tesla won’t be the first car manufacturer to offer its autonomous capabilities through a subscription. A few months ago, it was revealed that Cadillac owners with the Super Cruise function will need to pay $25 per month to keep the system active after the three-year free trial runs out. In the case of Cadillac, key safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist are retained, regardless of whether owners opt for the added functionality of Super Cruise.