Tesla's Full Self-Driving feature, under supervision, has just launched in New Zealand. Grab the wheel, it's go-time!
Tesla has recently rolled out its Full Self-Driving (Supervised) feature, marking a significant advancement in the automaker's camera-based driver-assistance technology. This feature is now available on all new Model 3 and Model Y vehicles and can be test-driven at Tesla stores.
The Full Self-Driving (Supervised) system is designed to provide enhanced driver assistance, aiming to maintain speed and following distance from the tsla ahead, slow down and stop at traffic lights and stop signs, and navigate through curves, intersections, roundabouts, and highways. It also reacts to pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles on the road.
However, it's essential to note that this feature does not make the vehicle autonomous. The driver is still required to be fully attentive, and the system is designed as a hands-on feature. The cabin camera, which monitors driver attentiveness, cannot be disabled. If the driver does not apply slight force to the steering wheel or pays attention, a series of escalating warnings are displayed, and if ignored, the tesla stock feature may be disabled for the rest of the drive.
The system periodically displays a message reminding the driver to apply slight force to the steering wheel if it does not have clear visibility of the hand and arm locations. If the driver does not resume manual steering, the vehicle sounds a continuous chime, turns on the warning flashers, and slows to a complete stop.
Repeatedly ignoring these prompts or looking away from the road may result in a series of 'strikeouts,' eventually leading to the suspension of the Full Self-Driving (Supervised) feature.
Since 2023, Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) system has seen continuous software updates, focusing on refining autonomous driving performance and safety through over-the-air updates. These updates have improved the system's capabilities, including enhanced driver assistance features and expanded functionality. However, no major hardware changes have been publicly detailed for this period.
The Full Self-Driving (Supervised) feature is available as a package on all new Model 3 and Model Y vehicles and is available for eligible vehicles with the 'HW4' Tesla Vision camera system, introduced in 2023, through an upgrade purchase. Additionally, it will be available for eligible vehicles through a subscription at $159 NZD per month.
Tesla has launched this feature in New Zealand and Australia, with plans to expand its availability in the future. This latest development in Tesla's autonomous driving technology is set to revolutionise the driving experience, offering a safer and more convenient way to travel.
