Tesla Motors is close to releasing a software update on its autopilot technology.
Last fall, Tesla introduced an optional, semiautonomous “autopilot” mode on its Model S, which allowed the autopilot-equipped models to detect other cars and obstacles around it and change lanes on highways. There’s also the 360-degree ultrasonic sonar, which monitors the electric car’s periphery, and allows it to make its own lane changes when you hit the turn signal.
On Friday morning, CEO Elon Musk revealed two new features that will do even more of the driving for you: highway autosteer and parallel autopark.
That autosteer feature will let drivers travel distances on highways “without touching any controls at all,” Musk said earlier this year.
Almost ready to release highway autosteer and parallel autopark software update
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 31, 2015
In a second tweet overnight, he warned there’s at least one more wrinkle to sort out first:
Final corner case is dealing with low contrast lane markings (faded white on grey concrete) while driving into the sun at dusk — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 31, 2015
Other cars with lane-keeping technology have the same problem. The car can’t stay in its own lane if it can’t determine where the lane is.
The software update should be rolling out in the very near future. Tesla has not yet confirmed a release date.
