Tesla Driver Using Autopilot Has a Close Call Exiting a Freeway
The Tesla Model S Autopilot software has been out for just one day, and one driver has already had a close call.
Fortunately, the software isn’t to blame because the owner didn’t fully understand the limitations of the system. Ever since it was originally announced, Tesla has made it clear that Autopilot is intended for highway use only, and exit ramps aren’t included in that. The video itself is mostly uneventful, with the Autopilot software competently doing its job, but once it starts exiting the highway, it didn’t compensate for a sharp left turn because the line markings were disrupted and not consistent. CEO Elon Musk has made a point that clearly defined lines are extremely important for Autopilot to function properly.
SEE ALSO: 5 Cool Things Tesla’s Autopilot Will Do
That’s one of the bad side effects of having over-the-air updates. As great as it is that Tesla owners are getting vehicle updates without having to visit to the dealership, drivers need to be properly educated on what the limitations of the system are. Autopilot is being marked as a beta and isn’t intended for complete hands-off use and hopefully Tesla owners understand that before they start finding their ways into accidents and blaming the semi-autonomous driving system.
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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I wonder if it has an audible warning if it loses "sight" of one of the lane markers. In this video, you can see that there is no left lane marker when he made that correction. It probably also should be able to use the GPS to know when it has exited the freeway and should warn the driver to take control. Will be interesting to see how many incidents happen in the near future.
Well that looks entirely safe... not.