Driver must keep their hands on car’s steering wheel even when Autopilot feature is on, says Elon Musk

Tesla will launch its new over-the-air software update in the next few days. Version 7.0 will bring Autopilot self-driving capability in the Model S. The system puts in uses equipment that has been present in every Model S. Experts said that activating Autopilot is majorly like using a car’s cruise control.

Autopilot will of help when it comes to parking. The hardware owing to which it would be possible includes forward radar, a forward-looking camera, 12 long-range ultrasonic sensors that are capable of 16 feet area around the car, electric assist braking system and GPS.

Every Model S will send back real-time data to Tesla that would ensure that Autopilot continues to learn and improve itself. It shall however, be noted that the driver will remain be the one to be responsible for having the control of the car.

Therefore, it can be said that Autopilot is used best when on the highway as then the car will maintain its lane, a set speed and safe distance between the vehicles. Tesla has a suggestion to make that even when Autopilot is on, drivers must keep their hands on the steering wheel.

Elon said, “The hardware and software are not yet at the point where a driver can abdicate responsibility”.

Another great feature of Autopilot is that the system will come up with a warning that prompts the driver to take over if any situation comes that cannot be handled by Autopilot.