Tesla software update unveils Grok character profiles, introduces energy-efficient navigation strategy, and verifies the 6-seater Model Y release [version 2025.20]
In a significant step forward for Tesla's AI strategy, the company has begun rolling out its new AI companion, Grok, to its fleet of vehicles. The integration, which started with software update 2025.26, is now being gradually rolled out to all Tesla vehicles, including the recently unveiled Cybertruck.
As of July 12, 2025, all Tesla vehicles delivered from that date onward have Grok pre-installed. Existing Tesla vehicle owners can expect to receive the update via over-the-air (OTA) updates in the coming months.
Grok operates as an AI companion, accessible through Tesla’s Premium Connectivity plan or Wi-Fi. It relies on cloud processing via xAI’s infrastructure and allows interaction with the AI assistant, with selectable voices and personalities such as Storyteller or Unhinged. However, it's important to note that Grok does not control vehicle functions at this time, but is positioned as an advanced conversational AI incorporated into the driving experience.
The rollout of Grok reflects Tesla’s broader ambition to vertically integrate AI across vehicle platforms, cloud infrastructure, and user interaction. While this marks an exciting development, it does raise concerns about single-point failure risks and cybersecurity due to reliance on continuous connectivity to Tesla’s servers.
The introduction of Grok is not the only update Tesla has been working on. The 2025.20.3 update introduces navigation tips in Tesla's navigation system to help drivers reduce energy consumption. These tips are based on real-world data and suggest specific speeds to save energy, further demonstrating Tesla's commitment to efficiency and sustainability.
Rumours suggest that the production of a new Model Y variant may be on the horizon, potentially hinting at the arrival of the long-wheelbase, 6-seat version of the Model Y, which has appeared in Tesla's firmware. While no official confirmation has been given regarding the production start date or market launch of the 6-seater Model Y, references to it in Tesla's firmware hint at potential launch in markets beyond China, possibly including North America.
The Grok personalities, including Language Tutor, Argumentative, Assistant, Conspiracy, Doctor, Kids' Stories, Kids' Trivia Games, Meditation, Motivation, Romantic, Sexy, Storyteller, Therapist, Unhinged (Grok Classic), also have associated icons. After entering a destination, the Energy app in the vehicle displays a prompt with suggested speed and potential energy savings.
It's worth noting that Grok requires AMD-based hardware, which means older Intel-equipped Teslas may not support Grok at launch. Despite this, the future of Tesla's AI integration looks promising, with evolving capabilities and a commitment to enhancing the driving experience.
Sources: [1] Teslarati (2025). "Tesla's Grok AI integration begins rollout with update 2025.26." [Online]. Available: https://www.teslarati.com/tesla-grok-ai-integration-rollout-2025-26/
[2] Electrek (2025). "All Tesla vehicles delivered after July 12, 2025, will come with Grok AI pre-installed." [Online]. Available: https://electrek.co/2025/07/12/all-tesla-vehicles-delivered-after-july-12-2025-will-come-with-grok-ai-pre-installed/
[3] CNET (2025). "Tesla's Grok AI: What you need to know." [Online]. Available: https://www.cnet.com/tech/transportation/teslas-grok-ai-what-you-need-to-know/
[4] The Verge (2025). "Tesla's Grok AI: A new in-car AI companion for all Tesla vehicles." [Online]. Available: https://www.theverge.com/2025/7/12/23204999/tesla-grok-ai-in-car-ai-companion-all-tesla-vehicles-premium-connectivity-plan-wifi
- Despite a potential initial limitation for older Tesla models, the integration of Grok, Tesla's new AI companion, is poised to revolutionize both the transportation industry and lifestyle for electric-vehicle owners.
- The deployment of Grok, accompanied by Tesla's exchange of navigation tips to minimize energy consumption, signals a strategic focus on efficiency, sustainability, and technological advancements in the automotive sector.
- With the integration of Grok, the ongoing evolution of Tesla's vehicles reflects broader ambitions in AI and technology, aiming to provide an immersive and sophisticated experience for users.
- The rise of electric-vehicles, propelled further by innovations like Tesla's Grok AI and the prospect of a new Model Y variant, highlights the intersection of finance, technology, and the transportation industry, shaping the future of personal mobility.
