A lot of carmakers are attempting to officially feature the world’s first self-driving car. It may take some time before a market-ready model becomes available, but Tesla is already providing customers with a glimpse of the future.
A 70-year-old grandmother was placed by CarBuzz behind the wheel of a self-driving Tesla and recorded her reactions throughout the ride.
The video lasted 40 seconds, showing the old lady’s mixed reactions as the car cruised through traffic. She was obviously trying to keep her hands from touching the wheel, especially when the car was approaching another vehicle. The grandma was apparently impressed and terrified at the same time, asking where the car was going and holding her breath when they meet an obstacle on the road. At the end of the vehicle, the Tesla alerted her and the person sitting beside her grabbed the wheel and asked her to step on the brakes.
According to RoadandTrack, technological developments in sensors and other features related to independently driving cars have made big progress in the past few years. Tesla’s self-driving model can at last stay on the road and avoid hitting other vehicles. It may be safe to presume that a fully safe and operational self-driving unit may become available in a decade or less. It is also important to note that the availability of self-driving cars may loosen the restrictions on qualified drivers. The minimum and maximum age for qualified drivers may be adjusted due to the added safety that the new feature provides.
CarScoops notes that the Tesla autopilot system has been recorded a few times already, with some videos of the tech circulating online. At present, the American carmaker allows some users to try their progressing self-driving technology, although in a downgraded version that limits the system functions to prevent serious accidents on the road. The Tesla Model S can only be driven from the backseat without posing risks to the driver and other people over a limited period.
Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, told MarketWatch that the company was almost ready to feature driverless cars on highways. Aside from cruising safely on the streets, the cars can also park on their own. The mechanisms are guided by sensors, mounted cameras and a forward radar, among other things. Furthermore, updates are available over-the-air so owners do not have to bring their cars in for servicing every time.
More updates and details on self-driving cars are expected soon.
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