Tesla Debuts New Side Repeater Cameras for Cybertruck

Tesla typically rolls out hardware changes continuously instead of waiting for traditional model-year updates, introducing revised components as soon as they are validated and older stock is consumed. The latest change focuses on the Cybertruck’s side repeater cameras.

Wes Morrill, Tesla’s lead Cybertruck engineer, shared the update on X, providing close-up views of the redesigned side repeater camera housings. He said Tesla routinely refines parts for cost, serviceability, and performance, and noted that the new housing uses passive aerodynamics to disturb airflow so rainwater and road spray are diverted away from the lens while driving, without adding any additional cost.

Passive Aerodynamics Over Camera Washers

Keeping camera lenses clear is critical for Tesla’s driver-assistance features and for Full Self-Driving (Supervised), especially during heavy rain.

Unlike the front bumper camera, which has its own dedicated washer, the Cybertruck’s side repeater cameras do not include integrated fluid spray nozzles. Tesla has added dedicated camera washers on the purpose-built Cybercab and on retrofitted Model Y robotaxis, but that plumbing has not yet been introduced on production Cybertrucks.

Engineers addressed the issue with smart plastic molding. A comparison of the previous and revised fender inserts shows distinct aerodynamic channels.

The original assembly sat flush within a smooth, triangular recess in the black wheel-arch cladding. The updated housing adds sculpted ridges and a sharp vertical fin beside the lens. This passive lip disrupts the high-speed airflow along the front fenders, deflecting water droplets and road grime before they can cover the glass.

Continuous Mid-Cycle Revisions

This camera tweak is part of ongoing rolling hardware improvements across the Cybertruck and Tesla’s broader lineup.

When Tesla finalizes a new part, it swaps in the update as soon as older inventory is depleted. Just last month, Tesla similarly upgraded the Cybertruck underbody with carbon fiber composite trays to replace stamped aluminum panels, improving underside durability during off-road rock crawling.

These updates come alongside pricing changes for the vehicle. Tesla raised Cybertruck prices by $5,000 across all dual-motor configurations a couple of weeks ago, bringing the starting price to $74,990.

By integrating passive aerodynamic geometry into everyday components, Tesla can help keep its vision system clearer in wet conditions without adding complex pumps or wiring harnesses. If the new repeater camera housings prove effective at keeping lenses clean, the company may extend them to other vehicles in the future.