Tesla hints at Starlink integration with current patent

Tesla hinted at a possible Starlink web terminal integration inside its autos in a current patent, which describes a automobile roof meeting with built-in radio frequency (RF) transparency.

The patent, which is Pub. No U.S. 2025/0368267 describes a brand new automobile roof that’s made from RF-transparent polymer supplies, permitting and “facilitating clear communication with exterior gadgets and satellites.”

Tesla believes {that a} new automobile roof design, comprised of various supplies than the usual metallic or glass parts utilized in automobiles at present, would permit the corporate to combine trendy vehicular applied sciences“notably these requiring radio frequency transmission and reception.

Tesla has just lately filed a US patent utility on integrating RF clear supplies into the roof construction.

“facilitating clear communication with exterior gadgets and satellites”

Tesla fleet is getting @Starlink connectivity integration quickly. LFG @Tesla @elonmusk… pic.twitter.com/bLa8YtPLd1

— Chansoo Byeon (@Chansoo) December 9, 2025

As a substitute of glass or metallic supplies, Tesla says autos could profit from high-strength polymer blends, reminiscent of Polycarbonate, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, or Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate.

These supplies nonetheless present splendid energy metrics for crashworthiness, stiffness for noise, vibration, and harshness management, and are compliant with head affect laws.

They might additionally allow higher efficiency with trendy applied sciences, like web terminals, which want an uninterrupted sign to satellites for max reception. Tesla writes within the patent:

“By using polymer blends, some examples allow RF transmission from all of the modules to satellites and different communication gadgets each inside and outdoors the automobile.”

One of many challenges Tesla appears to concentrate on with the sort of roof design is the truth that it should nonetheless should allow security and hold that on the forefront of the design. As you may see within the illustration above, Tesla plans to make use of 4 layers to extend security and rigidity, whereas additionally combating noise and vibration.

It notes within the patent that disclosed examples nonetheless meet the security necessities outlined within the Federal Motor Car Security Requirements (FMVSS).

Starlink built-in straight into Tesla autos could be a substantial benefit for homeowners. It will include a handful of distinct benefits.

Initially, the inclusion of Starlink would fully get rid of mobile useless zones, one thing that is a matter, particularly in rural areas. Starlink would offer connectivity in these distant areas and would guarantee uninterrupted service throughout highway journeys and off-grid adventures.

It may be a vital addition for Robotaxi, as it’s essential to have stable and dependable connectivity for distant monitoring and fleet administration.

Starlink’s rising constellationdue to SpaceX’s routine and frequent launch schedule, will present safe, secure, and dependable web connectivity for Tesla autos.

SpaceX reaches unbelievable milestone with Starlink program

Though many house owners have already mounted Starlink Mini dishes beneath their glass roofs for the same expertise, it might be built-in straight into Teslas within the coming years, both as an improve or an ordinary function.