Cars are undergoing rapid transformations as companies embrace new technologies and produce fully electric models. Simultaneously, significant investments are being made in sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence to pave the way for fully self-driving vehicles. One company at the forefront of this revolution is Tesla.
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Tesla Autopilot
Introduced in 2014, Tesla Autopilot was the company’s inaugural autonomous mode. Though not as advanced as other options, it is provided as a complimentary feature in all new Tesla cars. Autopilot functions like an enhanced version of cruise control, offering lane-centering and adaptive cruise control capabilities. This means the vehicle can maintain its position within a lane and adjust its speed based on the surrounding traffic. While these features are not exclusive to Tesla, they do provide an advanced form of cruise control.
Tesla Enhanced Autopilot
Tesla Enhanced Autopilot offers features that are not commonly found in other vehicles. However, it comes at a price of $6,000. With Enhanced Autopilot, Tesla cars can self-park and execute lane changes automatically. The “Navigate on Autopilot” feature allows the vehicle to navigate highways from on-ramps to off-ramps with minimal driver input. It is important to note that the driver should remain attentive. Additionally, Enhanced Autopilot includes Summon and Smart Summon capabilities, enabling the car to locate and drive to the driver within a parking lot without the need for remote control. While some of these features are unique to Tesla, lane-changing capabilities are expected to become more widespread.
Tesla Full Self-Driving (FSD)
Tesla
Tesla Full Self-Driving (FSD) represents the most advanced option. However, Tesla considers it to be in “beta” mode, indicating that it is still being tested by real-world drivers. First introduced in 2020, FSD has undergone continuous improvements. It is also the most expensive choice, with an upfront cost of $15,000 or a monthly subscription fee of $200. FSD introduces a significant feature: the ability to start and stop at traffic lights and stop signs. Tesla envisions FSD as a future car-to-door capability, enabling vehicles to transport occupants from one point to another autonomously. However, it is crucial to note that while FSD offers advanced autonomous features, the driver must remain alert and ready to assume control when necessary. Full Self-Driving does not yet fully live up to its name, so expectations should be managed accordingly.
In conclusion, while these Tesla modes offer various levels of autonomy, none of them permit drivers to take a nap behind the wheel. However, this hasn’t stopped some daring individuals from attempting to do so.
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