Get Ready: Tesla's New Model Y Set to Feature Adaptive Headlights in the U.S. Soon
In the latest episode of Jay Leno’s Garage, Tesla’s VP of Vehicle Engineering, Lars Moravy, announced that the new Model Y will come equipped with adaptive headlights.
While discussing the updated headlights, which are now positioned a few inches lower than before, Moravy mentioned that Tesla plans to introduce adaptive headlights in the U.S. within a couple of months.
Although Tesla has already rolled out adaptive headlights in Europe and the Indo-Pacific, this feature has yet to reach North America.
The introduction of adaptive headlights in the U.S. was initially delayed due to regulatory hurdles, but manufacturers have been able to implement them since mid-2024. In the meantime, competitors like Rivian and Mercedes-Benz have already launched their own full matrix headlight systems, aligning with offerings in other regions.
Update: This article has been revised to clarify that adaptive headlights will indeed be available in the U.S. shortly after the vehicle's launch in March.
Adaptive Headlights
Back in October 2024, Lars confirmed that matrix headlight functionality was imminent for North America. However, as we move into 2025, it remains uncertain when Teslas equipped with matrix headlights will actually receive this feature.
Currently, Tesla vehicles in North America support adaptive high beams and automatic headlight adjustments for curves, but the full matrix functionality has yet to be implemented. In contrast, matrix headlights are already available in Europe, where they selectively dim individual beam pixels to minimize glare for oncoming drivers and adapt to road curves.
It was unexpected that the comprehensive 2024 Tesla Holiday Update did not include matrix functionality. This feature could potentially enhance safety ratings, leading us to believe that Tesla is actively working to secure the necessary regulatory approvals.
Adaptive Headlights on Other Models
Lars did not confirm whether the refreshed Model Y will feature the same headlights as the new Model 3 and the Cybertruck, instead referring to them as "matrix-style" headlights.
The headlights on the new Model Y closely resemble those found on the 2024+ Model 3, suggesting that these other models may also gain adaptive headlight capabilities in the coming months.
For vehicles with older-style matrix headlights, it’s unlikely that support for adaptive beams will be introduced simultaneously, but we hope it will be available shortly thereafter.
