Despite mixed reactions to the design and pricing of Tesla's Cybertruck, the vehicle's technological innovations are game-changing. The Cybertruck is the first production vehicle to feature fully steer-by-wire technology, a 48V low-voltage system, an 800V high-voltage architecture, and bidirectional charging. It also introduces a new wiring harness called Etherloop, which reduces weight and complexity. The use of aluminum gigacastings and structural stainless steel body panels further enhances the vehicle's performance and safety. These advancements not only benefit the auto industry but also make EVs more efficient, affordable, and user-friendly for consumers.
Tesla has filed a patent for a new steer-by-wire system, which eliminates mechanical linkages between the steering wheel and the wheels on the ground, relying solely on electrical connections. This technology allows for a U-shaped yoke steering wheel, creating more space in the vehicle cabin for different designs. While Tesla previously faced criticism for introducing a yoke-style wheel without the steer-by-wire system, they have now developed the technology to a point where they could file a patent. However, it should be noted that Lexus's upcoming RZ 450e electric vehicle also features a similar steer-by-wire system.
Tesla hacker @GreenTheOnly has revealed a hidden feature in Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) Beta software called 'Elon Mode', which replaces the 'nag' feature with a more advanced driver monitoring method that employs only the internal camera to keep a watchful eye on the driver, ensuring they are not distracted. Meanwhile, Tesla has filed a patent for a steer-by-wire system that eliminates the mechanical linkage between the steering and the vehicle's wheels, promising an ultra-responsive, smoother, and more efficient steering experience. Tesla has also revealed a video of their unique Supercharger monitoring system, demonstrating how they utilize a specially developed app to track the status of charging stations around the world, effectively helping to pinpoint and address congestion, and beating range anxiety with their innovative routing system.
Tesla has filed for a patent on a new steer-by-wire system, which eliminates the use of mechanical linkages in a steering system and only relies on electrical or electromechanical systems for steering. The system has the potential to be more efficient, offer better steering configurations, and open up the vehicle’s cockpit to different designs. Tesla is already building a team to bring steer-by-wire technology to its electric vehicles and has implemented motors and actuators for drive controls in order to implement its assisted driving features under Autopilot and Full Self-Driving. The new system allows for redundancy without having a mechanical steering system as a backup.
