Tesla: Android Auto and Apple Carplay are now available thanks to a programming engineering

Tesla Android is a passionate project, it was therefore at the origin of an artisanal program rather than a practical solution for the general public. It then required two Raspberry Pi nano-scorders and many manipulations to operate. But with the latest project advances, the OS can now work on almost all Tesla vehicles equipped with the MCU2 operating system or a more recent version.

We corrected the main problem of Tesla Model 3 and Model Y

I explored a daring modification on my Tesla: the integration of an additional screen. But does this modification really respond to the small frustrations encountered with the Tesla system ? Is it easy to install ? What advantages and disadvantages ? I suggest you see that.

After a trip of more than 40,000 km in Tesla Model 3, and almost 20,000 km in Model Y, difficult to blame anything at these two electric cars. If we really wanted to quibble, we could mention the slightly disappointing turning department or their dimensions which are not always adapted to the narrow alleys of European cities or to parking spaces. But, as a tech lovers, my main stumbling block is found to be its infotainment system.

Model y Propulsion (2022)

Model 3 Propulsion (2022)

Tesla’s house bone is a bit of a forces of these cars: versatile, full of features, constantly updated, but … closed. Yes, this closed ecosystem has something to frustrate. We cannot install other applications than those offered. A bit like the iPhone in its early days.

On the other hand, the presence of a single central screen raises questions. Ergonomics, if we take the time to think about it, is not optimal for the driver. Constantly rotate your eyes to consult the GPS or check your speed is far from ideal. Model S and X, with their screen in front of the driver, seem to have understood this subtlety. If the Model 3 and there are devoid of it, it is essentially a question of cost.

Faced with these two frustrations, I made a daring bit of a bit: integrating a screen behind my steering wheel. My requirements were clear: an aesthetic design, a simple installation, and above all, compatibility with Apple Carplay and Android Auto, while displaying essential information for driving.

But now, there were many challenges. The market does not subscribe to official offers adapted to this kind of projects for the Tesla. The available solutions are more DIY than real finished products. In addition, official guarantees remain unclear vis-à-vis these modifications. My interlocutor at Tesla confirmed to me that this request is a niche, affecting a small bang of owners. However, he issued reserves on the warranty, indicating that such a modification, so poorly made, could cause some inconveniences such as a sound buzz in the cabin if we go up badly the whole.

So, first step, before you embark on such an adventure, it is crucial to weigh the pros and cons. Make sure you understand the implications, both in terms of guarantee and safety. For my part, I chose to kiss the geek side in me, while accepting potential risks.

My choice: a hansshow solution

In search of a solution to satisfy my technological desires, my research has directed me to the brand Hansshow, An actor in the universe of Tesla accessories. Their offers are varied, oscillating between pure extravagance and tools with manifest utilities: screens for rear passengers, Yoke flies, and even electric roofs fittings.

I finally set my sights on a 9 -inch touch screen model, perfectly meeting my criteria. The latter is not only compatible with Android Auto and Apple Carplay, but it is also widely documented by the Tesla aficionados community, which has greatly simplified its installation.

From a technical point of view, the Hansshow screen offers a pleasant visual experience thanks to an IPS LCD slab displaying a definition of 1920 x 720 pixels, and therefore a resolution Retina, with good light. Under the hood, there is a Arm chip proposing a GNU/Linux bone, with a remarkably fast starter time. Supported by 2 GB of RAM and 32 GB of storage, the machine is up to the expectations in terms of performance.

Ergonomics were clearly at the heart of Hansshow’s concerns when designing this screen. With fine edges, a screen with rounded edges and its OTA update capacity. The interface, without frills, is available in three distinct themes, providing the driver all the necessary information: current speed, remaining autonomy, safety distance, speed alerts, and many other essential warnings for secure driving.

One of the main forces of this Hansshow screen is its ability to operate so much independently and in conjunction with Apple Carplay or Android Auto, and this, completely without. This absence of cables not only contributes to a refined aesthetic, but also simplifies the life of the driver. No more superfluous handling, everything is designed for fluid and intuitive use.

Despite the wireless connection with the smartphone, no latency is to be deplored. Whether for starting the screen or for navigation within its various features, everything is rapidly executed. And this is precisely what we are looking for in a vehicle like the Tesla Model 3 or Y, where each millisecond counts (when you are geek).

Another major asset adaptability is. If you are a fervent user of Carplay, for example, you have the possibility of exploiting the whole width of the screen for total immersion. And if you want to keep an eye on your instruments while benefiting from Carplay, a 2/3 screen sharing mode for Carplay and 1/3 for the instruments is available (this is the one I chose).

A relatively simple installation process

One of the aspects that initially retained me was of course the question of installation. If, like me, DIY is not your strong point, touching a vehicle of the caliber of the Tesla Model 3 or the Y can be aims to a sacrilege act. The first generation of this Hansshow screen, despite its assets, presented a major drawback: the need to connect directly to the 12 V battery of the car of the car.

However, the second generation radically changes the situation. It is so harmoniously integrated into the Model 3 and that one might think that the latter were designed by having this screen in mind. The necessary connectors are easily on the right side, making the installation much less intimidating. Hansshow even provides an accessory to avoid blocking the air flow of ventilation.

Dismantling the Central Console of Model 3 may seem terrifying at first glance. But, to my surprise, the reality is much softer. The components fit naturally and it is enough to shoot with a certain delicacy to disassemble them. And for those who, like me, would have the fear of not having the adequate tool, rest assured: Hansshow thought of everything by including the necessary tool directly in the box.

If we had to estimate the duration of the installation, 30 minutes would be a fair approximation. Although this requires a minimum of dexterity, the operation does not require special skills.

Although I would have liked to provide you with a detailed guide, this article wants to be a feedback rather than a tutorial. But don’t worry, the web is full of resources to help you. I strongly recommend that you take a look at the many tutorials available on YouTube. Regardless of your mother tongue, it is a safe bet that someone, somewhere, shared their know-how to facilitate your installation.

Very intuitive

From the first use, Hansshow presents itself as a ready -to -use device. However, like many technological gadgets, I strongly recommend that you perform an OTA update as soon as. This guarantees, not only an optimal experience, but also the correction of possible bugs. In my case, the update was fast and efficient: thanks to the shared connection of my iPhone, the operation was completed in just three minutes.

The speed of use of Hansshow does not stop at the update. Indeed, the carplay connection with the iPhone is almost instantaneous. The process is intuitive: after pairing the device in Bluetooth, simply follow the instructions appearing on the screen of your iPhone. In a few keys, everything is ready.

During use, Hansshow offers different options for the audio output. Although it is equipped with an integrated speaker, it is possible to prefer the use of Tesla speakers. In my case, having paired my iPhone with the car, I opted for this last option, thus guaranteeing an optimal sound immersion.

You can also combine both: keep the Tesla audio system for music, and have audio instructions directly from the touch screen.

Some downside to emphasize

Some downside to emphasize, however. First, to benefit from an optimal view of the screen, a readjustment of the position of the seat is often necessary. This can be less comfortable for certain drivers. In my case, with Model Y, it led me to adopt a more “sitting” posture.

Second, Android Auto has limitations regarding audio output management. Third, the accessory designed to optimize the air flow does not make miracles. Although it facilitates better air circulation, it partially obstructs the flow of air conditioning.

Finally, although the IPS LCD screen is of good quality, it presents a discrepancy in terms of color temperature compared to the central screen. In addition, light leaks are perceptible, especially in night mode. It also has a lower contrast rate in the central screen.

The importance of OTA updates

It should be noted that OTA updates are not a simple luxury, but a necessity for third -party devices like Hansshow. Indeed, Tesla regularly updates its bone, and this constant evolution can sometimes cause compatibility problems. OTA UTA updates of Hansshow ensure permanent adaptation to these changes, thus guaranteeing longevity.

Why did I do it ?

First, it is necessary to understand the context behind this addition. GPS navigation offered by Tesla, far from being bad, had its share of disappointments. I have faced misplaced failures or routes, what erodes confidence in the long. What is more, the integrated system is basic, omitting crucial details such as accident alerts or speed control zones.

Then the closed bone of Tesla also has its back of the medal. Although stable and fluid, it deprives us of a whole world of third -party applications, meeting specific needs.

The ergonomic aspect is also to be taken into account. Of course, Tesla’s central screen is large and clearly visible, but sometimes it is just more intuitive to lower your eyes to consult rapid information such as speed or directions of GPS. The addition of a Hansshow screen behind the steering wheel meets this need.

In conclusion…

I cannot insist too much on the fact that this article is not a product recommendation. It was above all a personal experience, a test to determine the viability of such a addition. The assessment is positive overall. No major drawbacks to report.

As you can see, it works. And, it remains very dispensable as an accessory. It is additional comfort for the driver. I could have done without it, and keep what also makes the charm of these cars: minimalism.

How much does it cost ?

The cost of this screen Hansshow varies depending on the place of purchase. You could spend between 250 and 330 euros. The model is compatible Model 3 and Y, whether you are equipped with the Intel or AMD processor.

On Aliexpress, the device is generally cheaper, but be careful to choose the latest version. Personally, my preference was carried on Amazon. Admittedly, it was a little more expensive, but with the assurance of an easy return in the event of a problem or dissatisfaction.

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Tesla: Android Auto and Apple Carplay are now available thanks to a programming engineering

Polish developer Michał Gapiński has circumvented Tesla’s bone to install Android Auto and Apple Carplay. Her project still requires an installation of manipulations inaccessible to neophytes, however it is simplified and the project now supports multitouch.

This weekend, General Motors withdrew Apple Carplay and Android Auto from its electric cars in a decision that seems to follow that of Tesla. Indeed, the manufacturer does not support these two bones in its cars, unlike Volkswagen which promises to update its cars equipped with Android Automotive for 15 years. However, motorists are all used to the interfaces of the two mobile operating systems, and it is a shame for the consumer that this standard is not transposed in all cars. Fortunately, a programming enthusiast has found bypass solutions.

Thanks to the Polish developer Michał Gapiński, you can run Apple Carplay and Android Auto on your Tesla. We told you a year ago that “Apple Carplay on a Tesla, it is possible”. Only “possible” because the system was stammering and difficult to install. Now the program works much better and offers many interesting features. Recently, the developer added the care of multi-touch, which opens up numerous possibilities, in particular to play games coming from the Play Store.

Android Auto and Applecarplay on a Tesla via a Raspberry Pi

Tesla Android is a passionate project, it was therefore at the origin of an artisanal program rather than a practical solution for the general public. It then required two Raspberry Pi nano-scorders and many manipulations to operate. But with the latest project advances, the OS can now work on almost all Tesla vehicles equipped with the MCU2 operating system or a more recent version.

The installation is simpler, but always requires a Raspberry Pi 4. The latter issues its own Wi-Fi signal to which the Tesla connects. Operating Apple Carplay is a little more complicated than Android Auto, since it also requires need a Dongle Carlinkit and a LTE router for the Raspberry Pi. The Raspberry Pi can always be used offline, but in this case, the Tesla will no longer have an internet connection since the wi-fi network of the nano-computer replaces the one provided by the car.

A new step in the Tesla Android project

The project recently reached an important step with the switch to Android 13 and the addition of a new audio engine and a material display encoder. It also supports USB tethering for Android devices. This allows Tesla Android in particular to display content protected by DRM and reproduce sounds in lossless quality. On April 3, Michał Gapiński announced that Tesla Android also supported the multi-touch, a considerable improvement in relation to previous versions.

Multi-touch support with up to 10 contact points makes it possible to interact with the applications in an almost normal way. For the first time, users can make front and rear zooms as well as panoramic on navigation apps. It also allows you to play multi-touch games from the Google Play Store.

Small shadow on the board, the Tesla Android project still cannot use the GPS of the car directly and depends on a phone to provide it. The developer wants the next versions to be better integrated into the vehicle to allow access to all applications of the Play Store depending on the location.

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