Tesla update enables Autopilot to go on green
Semi-autonomous driving aid will now be able to proceed through traffic lights on green, says US car-makerTesla is preparing to roll out a new update for its Autopilot semi-autonomous system that will allow the EV to drive through traffic lights when on a green signal, even if there isn't another vehicle ahead.
The same system will also enable the Tesla EV to automatically halt at a stop sign or come to a rest at a red traffic light.
Called Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control, according to
the new feature will be available in the US before the end of this year and could soon be introduced to other markets thereafter.
The highlight of the system is that it sees all Tesla EVs with the updated Autopilot capable of 'reading' traffic lights and rolling through American-style intersections without input from the driver if the traffic light displays a green light – but not in all cases.
If the tech is unsure, the driverless Autopilot tech might ask the driver to confirm that the vehicle can proceed, requiring a prod of the throttle pedal or the press of a stalk.
This includes scenarios when the vehicle has been waiting on a red light and the signal turns green and the Autopilot is not 100 per cent sure it is safe to proceed.
It's been reported that, in future, Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control will no longer need driver confirmation, as was the case with the car-maker's lane-change feature that initially needed a driver to respond before making the move.
One task the latest system cannot do is turn left or right after waiting at a signal.
According to the electric car blog, Tesla has already introduced the update to its 'early access' fleet for beta-trialling.
Tags
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
