Tesla's AI, Musk's creation, takes a ride in Musk's car as Grok arrives at the automotive giant.
Starting July 15, 2025, Tesla vehicles will undergo a significant transformation with the integration of Grok, an AI assistant developed by Elon Musk's xAI startup. This change, delivered through Tesla's 2025.26 OTA update, will enhance the in-car user experience by offering a conversational AI chatbot that allows drivers to interact naturally with their Tesla cars[1][3][4].
The integration of Grok requires Tesla vehicles equipped with the AMD Ryzen-based infotainment system. Unfortunately, vehicles with older Intel Atom processors will not be part of this initial rollout[1][2][4]. Initially, the focus will be on the U.S. market, with internal testing commencing around mid-July 2025[1][4].
Grok serves as an advanced AI assistant but will not replace existing voice commands at launch. Instead, it complements them, providing a hybrid interface where both coexist[1]. Grok operates as a Beta feature at first, suggesting some limitations or incremental improvements are expected over time[1]. Users can select from various Grok “personalities,” including diverse conversational styles, enabling a customizable AI experience[3].
Beyond vehicles, Grok is set to be the voice and "brain" for Tesla’s humanoid robot Optimus, indicating Musk’s vision for Grok as a unified AI interface across Tesla’s ecosystem[3]. This move marks a shift towards Tesla becoming the first automotive company with its own integrated proprietary AI system, reducing reliance on third parties[2].
Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) package is now available by subscription for $99 per month, a significant reduction from the previous $199[1]. However, hardware updates for the FSD service are not included in the subscription plan and must be purchased separately. To access the FSD service, vehicles must have the FSD 3.0 computer or higher, and either Basic or Enhanced Autopilot[1].
Requirements for using Grok include an active Grok AI account, Wi-Fi access, and the Premium Connectivity plan[2]. It is unclear if a free or premium model will be mandatory. Recent reports suggest that Musk diverted Nvidia chips intended for Tesla to accelerate developments at xAI and its social network X[2].
The common architecture that Grok could potentially connect includes Teslas, Optimus robots, social networks X, and mixed reality viewers[3]. The integration of Grok into the humanoid robot Optimus is also planned[3]. The adaptability of Grok to physical environments, such as driving a car, distinguishes it from digital-focused assistants like Alexa or Siri[1].
The subscription-based FSD model allows users to enable the service for vacations or long trips, and disable it the rest of the year[1]. Tesla's collaboration with xAI, which began parallel to xAI's founding in 2023, involves sharing talent and technology[2]. Recent reports suggest a potential merger between Tesla and xAI, although Musk has avoided confirming it publicly[2].
- The AI assistant Grok, developed by Elon Musk's xAI startup, is set to be integrated into Tesla vehicles, enhancing the in-car user experience by offering a conversational AI chatbot[1][3].
- Grok requires Tesla vehicles equipped with the AMD Ryzen-based infotainment system, restricting the initial rollout to vehicles with this upgraded system[1][2][4].
- Beyond vehicles, Grok is also planned to be the voice and "brain" for Tesla’s humanoid robot Optimus, highlighting Musk's vision for Grok as a unified AI interface across Tesla’s ecosystem[3].
- Tesla is offering its Full Self-Driving (FSD) package by subscription for $99 per month, a significant reduction from the previous price, but hardware updates for the FSD service are not included in the subscription plan[1].
