Tesla is known for revolutionizing the automotive industry with its innovative electric vehicles, but there’s another aspect of their technology that often steals the spotlight: autopilot and full self-driving capabilities. While both of these features offer a level of autonomy for drivers, there are key differences between the two. Let’s take a closer look at Tesla’s autopilot and full self-driving options.

Understanding Autopilot

Tesla’s autopilot feature, also known as “Enhanced Autopilot,” has been available since 2015. It uses a combination of cameras, radar, and ultrasonic sensors to assist drivers with tasks such as staying in their lane, changing lanes, and maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles. However, it’s important to note that autopilot is not a fully autonomous system. It still requires a human driver to be in control and paying attention at all times.

So why is it called “autopilot?” Tesla’s CEO, Elon Musk, has stated that the term is used more as a marketing tactic and not to be taken literally. In other words, it’s meant to convey the idea that the car can handle some of the driving tasks, but it’s not meant to replace the driver completely.

The Capabilities of Autopilot

Autopilot has various features, including Autosteer, Traffic-Aware Cruise Control, and Auto Lane Change. Autosteer allows the car to stay within its lane while adjusting speed to maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead. Traffic-Aware Cruise Control allows the car to adjust its speed based on the speed of surrounding vehicles. Auto Lane Change allows the car to change lanes when the turn signal is activated and the lane is clear.

Autopilot also has a Summon feature, which allows the driver to use their phone to remotely move the car in and out of a parking space. It’s important to note that while these features are convenient, they are not meant to be used on every drive and require the driver to be ready to take control at any time.

Understanding Full Self-Driving

Tesla’s full self-driving feature, also known as “FSD,” is still in development and has not yet been released for public use. Musk predicts that FSD will be completed by the end of 2021, but it’s important to be cautious of these expectations as previous deadlines have been missed.

Full self-driving will offer a higher level of autonomy than autopilot, with the goal of being able to fully navigate a car without any driver input. However, drivers will still be required to be in the driver’s seat and be ready to take over if needed.

The Capabilities of Full Self-Driving

Full self-driving will build upon the features of autopilot and offer more advanced capabilities. This includes navigating city streets, parking lots, and even picking up and dropping off passengers without any driver input. Musk has also mentioned the possibility of having the car drive itself to your desired destination, as long as it’s on a Tesla-approved route. However, like with autopilot, these features will still require the driver to be attentive and ready to take over when necessary.

In Conclusion

While autopilot and full self-driving both offer a level of autonomy for drivers, they are not the same. Autopilot is a currently available feature that assists drivers with various tasks while still requiring them to be in control of the vehicle. Full self-driving is still in development and aims to provide a higher level of autonomy, but it’s not yet ready for public use. In the end, it’s important for drivers to understand the capabilities of these features and to always be ready to take control of their vehicle.

If you’re interested in learning more about Tesla’s technology and how it’s shaping the future of transportation, check out Why Is Explained, a site dedicated to exploring the latest advancements in various industries.