Tesla's Radar System Fights 37 Annual Child Hot Car Deaths

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Every year, 37 children die from vehicular heatstroke in the US, with over half of these deaths occurring when a parent unknowingly leaves a child behind.

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The system flashes exterior lights, plays an alert inside the car, and sends notifications to your Tesla app until you return to your vehicle.

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When a car is just 70°F outside, the interior can quickly reach dangerous temperatures over 115°F, putting children at risk of heat stroke.

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Unlike simpler systems using seat sensors or door logic, Tesla's radar technology can detect subtle movements like breathing even if a child is obscured.

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The feature comes with Software Update 2025.14.12, initially for Model 3 cars from mid-2023 onward in Europe, with more regions and models following soon.

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All data from the radar system stays in your car and isn't sent to Tesla, protecting your privacy while keeping children safe.

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The feature is enabled by default but can be turned off through the car's Controls > Safety menu if needed.

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This builds on Tesla's existing "Cabin Overheat Protection," creating a more comprehensive safety system to prevent tragic hot car incidents.

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