New software update for Tesla Model S
No hardware changes for premium EV, but version 7.0 software brings new driver-assist technologyTesla has today announced version 7.0 of its Model S software, which effectively enables active safety systems and supports a new look for the car's instrumentation.
The company describes the new instrument display as more "driver-focused" and providing added "real-time information". New information displayed comprises a virtual reality representation of the road when lane departure, blind spot detection, speed assist, collision warning, adaptive cruise, and autosteer functions are operating.
But perhaps more importantly, the new software package is central to 'new' or updated active safety systems collectively named 'Autopilot'. These include Automatic Emergency Steering and Side Collision Warning, Autosteer, Auto Lane Change and Autopark. The side collision warning system detects danger of the Model S colliding with a car adjacent and alerts the driver by means of "fluid lines" radiating from the Model S icon in the instrument panel.
Autosteer, which is in Beta development according to Tesla, maintains the car's position in a lane without driver input and incorporates active cruise control to maintain a safe distance to the car in front. Tesla warns that the Autosteer system is an assisting feature that still requires drivers keep their hands on the wheel.
Auto Lane Change is the flip side of Autosteer, automatically steering the Model S into an adjacent lane once the driver has indicated left or right. The system checks that there is room in the adjacent lane and it's therefore safe to diverge before doing so.
Autopark is much like similar systems offered by other manufacturers. A 'P' displayed in the instrument panel at low speeds indicates to the driver that the Model S is ready to park itself parallel to the kerb. Tesla says that the Model S will park itself, controlling steering and speed.
Tesla's last software update for Model S was back in March of this year, leaving the question begging: Will constant and frequent software updates serve to boost resale values for the high-performance EV?
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