How Tesla’s Autopilot Works: What You Need to Know

Cars become more intelligent and wiser as technology continues to become more innovative. Most of the most sought-after features in new vehicles have been engineered through Tesla’s innovation. 

This article will explore Tesla’s Autopilot, a feature that guides drivers through the highway. As a new driver, a fan, or a car technology enthusiast, being aware of Tesla’s Autopilot will make you an educated expert about new car technology. 

What is Tesla’s Autopilot?

Tesla’s Autopilot can independently drive cars for specific tasks: keeping the car in the lane, accelerating, or braking is what it can do. However, any driver must pay attention and always be ready to actively take part in driving himself.

It’s also worth noting that, through a suite of sensors, cameras, and computers, Autopilot gets a constant feed of information on what’s happening with the car’s ambient environment: from detecting other vehicles, traffic signs, lanes, the list goes on and on. In this aspect, the vehicle should be able to drive safely and stay on the road, but it is not infallible. The driver must still be alert and prepared to take over at any moment.

How Does the Autopilot Work?

To understand its environment, Tesla’s Autopilot combines computer vision with AI, cameras, and ultrasonic sensors. Tesla, however, phased out its use of radar in newer vehicles (to 2021, at least) in favor of a camera-only system, Tesla Vision.

The system assists with steering, accelerating, and braking based on what it detects, similar to how a human driver uses their eyes and brain to make driving decisions.

Tesla offers different levels of driver assistance:

• Basic Autopilot: Handles lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control.
• Enhanced Autopilot: Adds features like automatic lane changes, auto park, and smart summon.
• Full Self-Driving (FSD) Beta: A more advanced system that can navigate city streets but requires driver supervision.

Despite these capabilities, Tesla’s Autopilot and FSD are not fully autonomous—the driver must keep their hands on the wheel and always stay attentive.

What Tesla’s Autopilot Can’t Do

Tesla’s Autopilot can do a lot, but it can’t handle some things. Heavy rain, snow, or other types of bad weather can make the cameras and sensors hard to see. It also has some difficulties recognizing certain road signs or construction areas.

Autopilot can’t drive on all types of roads. It works best on highways or well-marked roads. It might only work well in good road markings or complex city streets. Because of these limitations, the driver must always be ready to take control.

Why is Autopilot Important to New Drivers?

First and foremost, a new driver needs to know how to drive safely. While Tesla’s Autopilot system is convenient for an experienced driver, it is not for new drivers who are just trying to learn the basics. It’s easier with Autopilot, but knowing how to drive well and being aware of traffic rules and safe driving practices is still necessary.

It will help you learn to safely use your car’s features, including those implemented as aids. Remember that you are responsible for driving the vehicle, even if advanced features such as Autopilot are engaged. Tesla’s Autopilot is designed to be an aid and should never replace the driver’s attention and control.

Conclusion

Tesla’s Autopilot is a feature that makes driving safer and easier. It can assist with steering, acceleration, and braking but does not remove the need for a full driver’s attention.

New drivers first have to become proficient in safe driving techniques, and then use complex capabilities.
Ready to drive? Enroll with Northwest Driving School, and our instructors will teach you to become a responsible and effective driver, regardless of your car, whether a Tesla or any model. Let’s have you drive towards success!