Now, Tesla has announced a software update – 7.0, that allows the Model S to expand the system’s functionality, providing drivers with new features and requires even less driver involvement while on the road.
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“We’re being especially cautious at this stage so we’re advising drivers to keep their hands on the wheel just in case”, Musk commented in front of media representatives at the company’s Silicon Valley headquarters. The driver is still ultimately in control of (and responsible for) the vehicle, and all drivers are advised to keep their hands on the wheel even in Autopilot mode.
While Autosteer is more akin to an enhanced adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist than a fully self-driving vehicle; it does automatically maintain distances from other cars around the Model S.
The autopilot mode will also take care of those pesky parallel parks by manoeuvring into tight spots without any help from the driver. The new software uses data from all of these monitoring systems and adjusts the accelerator, brakes and steering accordingly.
Tesla’s Model S is now capable of driving itself after new software was released for the all-electric saloon.
Aside from the Autopilot improvements, the Tesla Version 7.0 software update features revised display interfaces and a revamped instrument panel that promises to provide more functional apps.
“I think this is going to be quite a profound experience for people”, Musk said.
Starting Thursday, you may do a double-take when a Tesla Model S passes you on the highway.
While Tesla’s Elon Musk has said this week that full autonomy won’t be coming to Tesla for a further three years, this is another big step in that direction.
The electric carmaker Tesla Motors hopes to overtake competitors with a new autopilot system that lets cars change lanes by themselves.
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Mercedes is also developing similar technology for its own line of cars, where the cars can learn a driver’s habits, in addition to whatever’s picked up from the in-car sensors. The vehicle is then able to guide itself in, regulating vehicle speed and steering inputs.
