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All Tesla Vehicles Being Produced Now Have Full Self-Driving Hardware (jalopnik.com)

Posted by BeauHD on from the self-edited dept.

An anonymous reader quotes a report from Jalopnik: All current Tesla models that will be produced in its Fremont, California factory will come with self-driving hardware built-in capable of Level 5 autonomy, including the upcoming Tesla Model 3, the company announced tonight. According to the announcement, Tesla will manufacture all of its cars with the hardware necessary for Level 5 self-driving systems going forward, including the Model S, Model X and new Model 3. At the introduction of the Model 3, it wasn't clear whether or not every Model 3 package would come standard with the hardware and software to handle Autopilot and any other self-driving features. That's been cleared up now, but there's a kicker. Just like on current Model S and Model X models, you can purchase the cars with the self-driving hardware included. But, in order to activate the software and actually use the Autopilot or upcoming advanced self-driving safety features, you will have to option it when you order the car, or pay more for it later. Elon Musk stated that the new hardware in all of Tesla's cars going forward are Tesla's own vision software, with a Tesla-developed neural net. The new hardware and software capabilities still need to undergo all of the testing required by Tesla's own standards, as well as government approval before unleashing Level 5 autonomous cars onto the streets.

2 of 186 comments (clear)

  1. This got posted quickly!! by haruchai · · Score: 2, Interesting

    Been a long time since I've seen a story get onto Slashdot this quickly

    --
    Pain is merely failure leaving the body
  2. Re:self-driving or assisted driving ? by green1 · · Score: 3, Interesting

    The manual for the Model S and Model X both disagree with you. They explicitly state not to use autopilot in slippery conditions. Just like every other cruise control system on the market.

    That said, we also know that this new hardware is NOT enough for full AP in inclement weather, or even a light drizzle of rain, because none of the rear cameras have wipers on them, and if you've ever tried to use the backup camera in the rain you'll see the problem.

    Cameras are essential for forward vision to deal with lane markings and signage, however to see cars coming behind you, you need radar, and they still haven't included rear radar.

    "Level 5 autonomy" in a car that can't drive in the rain is ridiculous.