Tesla Is Releasing Open-Source Code, Including Autopilot System Image

Tesla has finally decided to release some of the Linux open-source code used by the Model S and Model X.

Under open-source licenses, the electric automaker is obliged to release its software to the public but up until now, hasn’t done so. ZDNet reports that the code has been released for the Model S/X 2018.12 software release and includes the system image for Tesla Autopilot, the kernal sources of its underlying software, and Tesla’s code for its infotainment system.

In a statement, Tesla said it intends on releasing more of its open-source code in the near future.

“Work is underway on preparing sources in other areas as well, together with a more coordinated information page.

“We wanted to let you know about this material as it is available now while work continues on the other parts,” Tesla revealed.

Tesla has been working with the Software Freedom Conservancy (SFC) to release its open-source code for the past five years.

“Conservancy has been engaging with Tesla on its GPL compliance since June 2013, when we advised Tesla that we had received multiple reports of a GPL violation regarding Tesla’s Model S.

“Customers who purchased Tesla’s Model S received on-board system(s) that contained BusyBox and Linux, but did not receive any source code, nor an offer for the source,” SFC leaders Bradley M. Kuhn and Karen M. Sandler asserted.

With the backing of the SFC and other open-source licensing groups, Tesla is being encouraged to convince NVIDIA and Parrot to release complete, corresponding source (CCS) releases for the Tesla Model S.