In a concerning development for vehicle safety, unauthorized Tesla autopilot modification modules are being widely sold on Chinese e-commerce platforms, with prices ranging from just a few hundred to a thousand yuan (140 USD)– a stark contrast to Tesla’s official Enhanced Autopilot (EAP) and Full Self-Driving (FSD) packages that cost between 32,000 and 64,000 yuan (4,480 and 8,960 USD).

Chinese media NBD reporters discovered that one particular “Tesla multi-function module” has accumulated sales of 69,000 units, with customer reviews praising it for “truly freeing your hands” and “driving without holding the steering wheel.”

These modification modules primarily circumvent Tesla’s safety requirements by disabling the steering wheel grip detection warning system. While Tesla’s official Autopilot system requires drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and remain attentive, these modifications allow drivers to operate completely hands-free – a dangerous practice that violates both Tesla’s safety protocols and Chinese traffic regulations.

A car repair professional explained to reporters that these modules work by deceiving the vehicle’s sensors to bypass system restrictions, constituting a typical “software hack.” Tesla’s official service centre in Beijing’s Chaoyang District confirmed that “this type of modification interferes with the vehicle’s computer module and will affect warranty coverage.”

One Tesla owner who installed such a module reported experiencing two system crashes within just two weeks of installation, with the most severe incident resulting in the vehicle being completely unable to start. Tesla’s official service diagnosed the problem as a system conflict caused by the “AP disturbance-free module” and presented a repair bill of 4,000 yuan (560 USD).

According to industry insiders quoted by NBD, the popularity of these modifications is attributed to two main factors: Tesla’s lack of certain features and the high price of Tesla’s official advanced driving assistance systems. The price gap creates an irresistible temptation for some owners, despite the risks associated with it.

Meanwhile, Tesla appears to be making progress with officially bringing FSD to China. On June 30, Tesla announced on X that “FSD Supervised” would be available in China, alongside the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Puerto Rico. When contacted for verification, Tesla China sales representatives confirmed that “FSD functionality has begun an orderly rollout in the Chinese market.”

Source: NBD