Automotive

Tesla's live Autopilot upgrades give the Model S parallel parking and lane changes with the push of a button

This snapshot of Tesla's newly updated user interface hints at the new autonomous driving features that went live earlier this week in all Model S vehicles produced in the last year
This snapshot of Tesla's newly updated user interface hints at the new autonomous driving features that went live earlier this week in all Model S vehicles produced in the last year

Tesla's semi-autonomous Autopilot upgrades are live. Model S vehicles produced after October of last year are now capable of automatic parallel parking, lane changes with the tap of the turn signal, and traffic-aware cruise control. Version 7.0 of the Model S' firmware will also add new apps and a refresh of the UI that provides the bulk of the driver's interaction with the car's features.

The updates are enabled by new hardware installed in the Model S as of late last Septemberr. These sensors include "forward radar, a forward-looking camera, 12 long-range ultrasonic sensors positioned to sense 16 feet around the car in every direction at all speeds, and a high-precision digitally-controlled electric assist braking system," according to a blog post from the company Wednesday. These sensors enable Tesla to gradually roll out new semiautonomous features via the company's signature over-the-air updates.

In addition to the features already listed, 7.0 also enables steering within a lane (to the point where a driver can take their hands off the wheel for a short period of time); collision avoidance on the front and sides; preventing the car from wandering off the road; and scanning for a parking space.

With this new update, Tesla points out that drivers are still in control of the car and will be for years to come, but the features will add confidence, safety, and enjoyment to driving. In a press conference, Elon Musk referred to the features as being essentially in beta and urged caution when using them.

The company claims that this is currently the only fully integrated feedback suite of camera, ultrasound, GPS, and radar, though doesn't use lidar as does Google's autonomous vehicle. Tesla also announced that the Model S fleet would provide real-time data to each other to improve the system.

While users must own a Tesla produced in the past year to use Autopilot, all future upgrades to the Autopilot system theoretically will take place automatically.

Source: Tesla Motors

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3 comments
Stephen N Russell
Why I want a Tesla now vs other makes, models. Hoorah Hey Tesla cant U let US Rent said Tesla models for Joe drivers to later BUY. Rent models with X0000 miles alone. Rent nationwide. Maybe cheaper since no gas involved. BUT expand charging stations alone X1000.
Geoff Smale
Word has it the software update after next will allow the car to circle the block unmanned while you go into a shop were there are no parks. This feature will require you to activate the function while you circle the block so it can learn the route. Then you stop get out and press the button on the remote and the car circles the pre determined route till you summon it to stop by holding the call button as it approaches . Very clever stuff
GlenHale
Yet a Google map can not take you to an address every time or find a pick up point???