UPDATED: Tesla introduces Summon to Model S

Updated: March 9, 2016:

Australian Model S owners will soon be able to remote park their cars. The ‘smarts’ required to use Tesla’s ‘Summon’ functionality are included in the latest over-the-air 7.1.1 software update.

The update also includes improvements to the car's ‘creep’ mode, regenerative braking system and Spotify music player playback quality.

But the Victoria Police says the technology may not be entirely legal. Speaking to motoring.com.au today a spokesperson for the Victoria Police said the operation of Summon may constitute failure to exercise proper control of a motor vehicle, and could result in a $228 fine.

"Operating a car from anywhere other than the driver’s seat may constitute failure to have proper control and can lead to a $228 fine," the spokesperson said. "Victoria Police is aware of new and emerging technologies in regard to driverless vehicles and will work with VicRoads to clarify regulations such as the definition of 'control' under the Road Safety  Road Rules 2009."

Tesla says its Summon technology is offered now in Beta form, meaning the system will be continuously improved over time. Summon allows Model S owners to park the vehicle while standing nearby, and says it will assist owners in manoeuvring their car in to or out of tight spaces.

The system will only work when the Model S is aligned within "approximately 10 metres of the final parking space", Tesla says. It will only operate when the car can be driven straight in or out. Summon is operated via the Tesla mobile app with the key fob in range. The vehicle can only travel a distance of 10 metres and will stop when it detects an obstacle.

Tesla cautions that the technology may not detect certain items including narrow obstacles like bicycles or items suspended from a garage ceiling, for example.

You can stop Model S at any time while Summon is in progress using the mobile app, by pressing any button on the key fob, or by pressing any Model S door handle. It may also only be used on flat surfaces at this point in time and "only on private residential property where the surrounding area is familiar and predictable".

Tesla cautions that owners using Summon should continually monitor their vehicle's movement and surroundings while using the technology and be prepared to stop the vehicle at any time using the app, the key fob or by pressing the door handle.