Tesla is slated to begin tackling large-scale improvements for its "Autopilot software", thanks to new updates which could be available for download on the Model S and X electric cars, according to Tesla's CEO, Elon Musk, as announced through Twitter on Wednesday.
The brand new OS for these electric cars, dubbed version 8.0, is scheduled to be released on a wide scale these coming weeks.
Further information regarding the software updates would be posted on the company's blog this coming Wednesday, according to the Tesla CEO. The Autopilot feature of these cars has drawn criticism due to crashes and accidents involving the cars and its drivers.
According to Musk, updates for the software would include improved radar signal processing, as the features of the autopilot have depended on both cameras and radar. The Autopilot is a combination of various technologies, which include instant braking for an emergency, automatic assistance to keep you on your lane, and a state-of-the-art cruise control, which allows drivers to maintain a safe distance from cars behind them on highways.
Tesla's system, albeit similar to what other companies offer, have a unique twist to them. One example of such twists would be the Autopilot, which would enable drivers to not use the steering while every few minutes or so, while other systems would need the driver to keep on hold of the wheel more often.
The not-for-profit Consumer Reports magazine has called on Tesla to alter Autopilot so that drivers will have to keep hands on the steering wheel. Furthermore, other changes they want to see would be a name change for Autopilot, as the name could be misleading, making others think that the system is more capable than it actually is.
Other workers at Tesla have also shared their sentiments regarding the release of the feature as being too rushed. The company's CEO, however, was quick to defend the feature's name, saying that even the autopilot feature of an airplane would require a human pilot to keep an eye and closely monitor the system.
Furthermore, the Owner's Manuals which come with the cars have warnings in them that drivers still need to devote much attention on the road despite turning Autopilot on. The Autopilot system, furthermore, is indicated to be of use on highways with not much of an access, and not in difficult urban driving circumstances.
An "over the air" delivery system would be used to get the cars finally using the software updates. Car owners need not go to a service station for them to avail of the said update.
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