difference between cruise control and autopilot

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Tesla Autopilot vs. full self-driving: What’s the difference?

It’s no longer the only company with self-driving cars on the road, but Tesla was one of the first brands to make this innovative functionality available to the public. Thanks to an array of cameras, sensors, and AI technology, most Telsa vehicles are capable of driving themselves to some degree. However, this doesn’t mean drivers can take a nap behind the wheel. In fact, none can be used without driver supervision — and there are some serious limitations to the tech.

Tesla Autopilot

Tesla enhanced autopilot, tesla full self-driving (fsd), tesla autopilot controversies.

Tesla currently offers features known as Tesla Autopilot and Full Self-Driving. But what’s the difference between the two? And is one more reliable than the other? Here’s everything you need to know about Tesla’s Autopilot and Full Self-Driving technology.

Tesla Autopilot was the company’s first autonomous mode, and was introduced in 2014. It’s still the least advanced of the options, but it’s also included for free with all new Tesla cars — so it’s kind of like an added bonus.

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Autopilot is designed to be used with full driver supervision, and is essentially an advanced version of cruise control. It has lane-centering and adaptive cruise control, meaning the car can both stay in the center of a lane and can slow down and speed up depending on what’s in front of it.

These are features that aren’t necessarily exclusive to Tesla. Together, they’re basically an advanced cruise control, which is on offer by other cars.

Tesla Enhanced Autopilot adds some features that other cars don’t have. It’s also not free — it costs $6,000.

Enhanced Autopilot allows the car to park on its own, and also has features like auto lane change, meaning the car can change lanes as it sees fit. This feature also ties into the “Navigate on Autopilot” feature, which allows the car to drive from a highway’s on-ramp to its off-ramp, theoretically without the driver’s input — though the driver should still stay aware.

It also includes Summon and Smart Summon, which allow the car to drive to you in a parking lot — no remote control necessary.

Some of these are features that you can’t really find anywhere else — though features like lane changing are set to become more common.

Last but not least is Tesla Full Self-Driving (FSD). It’s the most advanced option, but Tesla has labeled it as a “beta,” suggesting that it’s more of a way to test the feature with real-world drivers. Tesla debuted FSD in 2020, and has been periodically improving it ever since.

It’s the most expensive option on Tesla’s menu — it costs a hefty $15,000 upfront, or $200 per month if you prefer to pay for it as a subscription. For that money, it adds a major feature: the ability to start and stop at traffic lights and stop signs.

Tesla sees FSD as the eventual car-to-door feature, unlocking the ability to fully drive an individual from point A to point B. But it’s not quite there yet. You should still remain alert and ready to take control while using Full Self-Driving — the name is pretty misleading, as the car still can’t actually fully drive itself, and you shouldn’t expect it to.

So which mode lets you nap behind the wheel? Sorry, none of them. But that hasn’t stopped sleepy drivers from trying .

The self-driving capabilities of Tesla have been the subject of much scrutiny. For one, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) began investigating the use of Autopilot in 2021 due to several accidents in which the feature was involved. The results of the investigation eventually led to a recall of over 360,000 Tesla vehicles using the Full Self-Driving beta. According to the official report, the NHTSA found that the system could cause vehicles to “act unsafe” when approaching intersections and some failed to stop appropriately.

Aside from the recall, it’s important to note that Tesla itself does not claim that any of its self-driving features can be used without a “fully attentive driver.” According to its owner manual , the company says drivers should “never depend on Autosteer to determine an appropriate driving path” and that Autosteer is a “hands-on feature.” Whether or not drivers follow those guidelines is another story — but it’s clear that no Tesla is ready to drive you from point A to point B while you take a nap.

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Don't let the name Autopilot fool you: None of the cars in Tesla's current range are capable of driving themselves. Instead, Autopilot is a partially automated system that is regularly improved via over-the-air software updates. It relies on eight surround-view cameras that give the car 360-degree visibility for up to 820 feet, 12 ultrasonic sensors, and a forward-facing radar. Tesla has regularly stressed that, unlike its rivals, it doesn't believe in lidar technology.

The data gathered by Autopilot's hardware allows the car to steer, accelerate, and brake automatically within its lane, commonly called adaptive cruise control, though the company warns the system requires active driver supervision. In other words, even if your Model S can steer itself around a bend, you shouldn't be watching a movie while you cruise down I-80 at 75 mph. There are many circumstances Autopilot can't handle on its own, and the driver could be asked to take over without notice.

Autonomous car company Waymo says it will stop using the term “self-driving” in a move that many will see as a swipe at Tesla.

Alphabet-owned Waymo said that starting this year it will refer to its driving technology as “fully autonomous.”

A Tesla enthusiast has posted a video showing a Model 3 Performance vehicle traveling from San Francisco to Los Angeles, California in Full Self-Driving (FSD) beta mode, with almost no human intervention necessary during the entire trip.

The video (above), spotted by Teslarati, has been sped up to compress the 380-mile journey int0 15 minutes of footage, though it’s still easy to see the vehicle’s driving decisions play out on its touchscreen display.

Tesla Cruise Control vs. Autopilot (Detailed Comparison)

If you are going to purchase a Tesla vehicle you must be familiar with Tesla Cruise Control as well as Tesla Autopilot. Cruise Control will provide you with many features. While the Autopilot feature set adds a new capability to your Tesla that makes driving safer and less stressful.

In this article, I will discuss the main features and comparison between Tesla Cruise Control and Tesla Autopilot.

Let’s Get Started…!!!

Table of Contents

What is Tesla Cruise Control?

When you are enjoying the Tesla cruise control feature your vehicle may automatically change its speed to keep a safe following distance from the car in front of it. By using sensors, cameras, and radar it can detect the speed of the vehicle in front of you. In this way, it can modify the speed of your vehicle appropriately.

Cruise control helps you to keep a safe following distance, and allows your Tesla to automatically slow down or accelerate up. It will help you to detect a car which is in your same lane. It will allow your vehicle to keep moving at a predetermined speed.

While driving and enjoying the Tesla cruise control feature you have to keep an eye in front of you and manually apply the brakes when necessary.

What is Tesla Autopilot?

The complete semi-autonomous driving functions present in your Tesla vehicle are referred to as “Autopilot”. Tesla Autopilot is one of Tesla’s most ambiguous properties. There are four distinct hardware variants and four distinct software packages that have been introduced throughout the years.

Every component present in your Tesla autopilot will perform a particular function, for example maintaining speed, steering, or parking of your Tesla vehicle. There are a total of four distinct Autopilot software packages that combine these elements in various ways.

The main thing that you must keep in mind is that Tesla’s Autopilot is not autonomous, so you must maintain concentration, keep your hands on the wheel, and be prepared to take over at any moment.

To monitor your participation, Tesla has put in place several safety mechanisms for you. If Autopilot is used improperly, it may be warned about or its functionality may be restricted.

Following are some advanced features offered by Tesla Autopilot:

1) Tesla Autopilot includes the Traffic Aware Cruise Control to lock on to and match the speed of the car in front of it. It will completely stop and restart your Tesla vehicle without the need for your action as compared to Tesla cruise control.

2) The autopilot helps you to monitor lane markings. Your vehicle will make the appropriate steering adjustments. Tesla steers proactively to handle reasonably major curves in the road.

3) You can automatically change the lane by using Auto Lane Change. When you begin to change lanes, you must have to use the turn signal to signal the chosen lane. When Tesla autopilot is confirmed, your car will automatically move over.

4) The most advanced feature of your Tesla Autopilot is Stop Sign and Traffic Light Control (beta). With this function, your Tesla vehicles can view and react to stop signs and traffic signals.

Your automobile will slow down at stop signals even if it’s green. You have to give a confirmation tap on the accelerator pad to proceed with your vehicle again.

5) Tesla autopilot provides you with two different kinds of summons named Basic Summon and Smart Summon. This summons will allow you to move your vehicle without your presence.

When you are using the basic summon feature you can only move forward and backward. Smart Summon will help your Tesla to independently find its way to the driver in a parking lot.

6) On the highway by using navigate on autopilot (beta) semi-autonomous driving and navigation is possible. When you are travelling on a highway the option to navigate on Autopilot will be available.

This will help your Tesla vehicle to change lanes to pass other vehicles, move out of the passing lane, make exits, and navigate through highway interchanges.

Tesla Cruise Control vs. Autopilot

1) Cruise control in your Tesla vehicle is similar to the cruise control present in many other automobiles. When you activate the cruise control feature, it will enable your vehicle to keep the specified constant speed.

Advanced driving assistance systems like Tesla’s Autopilot provide cutting-edge features as compared to standard cruise control.

2) Your Tesla cruise control is not able to change the speed of your car in response to traffic ahead. In contrast, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), which is one of the elements of Autopilot, can change your vehicle’s speed according to traffic conditions. By using this feature, you can completely halt your vehicle and then start moving again if the flow of traffic permits.

3) Tesla cruise control does not offer you any aid with steering or lane-keeping. But, your Tesla autopilot will offer you some self-steering capabilities along with auto steering. Your vehicle will be in its lane when your Tesla vehicles use the autopilot feature.

difference between cruise control and autopilot

Which option should be considered in the future?

When you talk about Tesla cruise control you should keep in your mind that your Tesla cannot have cruise control without the driver-assist technology package Autopilot installed.

The Traffic-Aware Cruise Control feature of your Tesla Autopilot package allows your Tesla to keep its cruising speed while the road in front of you is clear. It will also slow your vehicle according to the behavior of the car that is in front of you.

While using cruise control, you must always maintain your hands on the wheel and be ready to brake or take control of the car at any time.

You can avail the autopilot package as a subscription for $99 per month or you may also enjoy the Enhanced Autopilot package for $199 per month. To subscribe to these packages, you can use your Tesla app or Tesla account.

The following points should be kept in mind:

1) The top cruising speed is 150 km/h or 90 mph. You must maintain a safe speed according to the posted speed limit.

2) Always keep an eye on the road in front of you. You should be ready to make adjustments whenever necessary.

3) When you are using Tesla cruise control you should be careful about your routes. Avoid using the feature during harsh weather conditions.

4) You should clean your Tesla cameras and sensors from any type of debris before activating the Autopilot features.

5) You must get familiar with Autopilot’s restrictions and the circumstances that can call for driver intervention.

Final Thoughts

So far, I have discussed all the features related to your Tesla cruise control and Tesla autopilot along with their comparison. The difference may include:

Cruise control will provide you with a specified speed while Autopilot will give you more advanced features.
As compared to Tesla Autopilot, cruise control will not be able to change the speed.
Steering and Lane keeping features are not present in cruise control.

We went over in detail each of these and answered some quires that you might have in your mind.

If you have some information to share with us about this topic, feel free to contact us. We would love to hear from you.

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Howdy, I’m Nabeel, and for the past 10 years, my automotive passion has been charged up with a focus on cars and Jeeps, with a special love for Teslas. From the hum of the electric motor to the thrill of off-road adventures, I’ve clocked countless miles and experiences. Join me as I delve into the electrifying world of Tesla and share a decade’s worth of automotive adventures, one ride at a time. Let’s hit the road!

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Tesla Autopilot vs Full Self-Driving (FSD) – Worth It?

Autopilot Changes for 2019 with Full Self-Driving

When purchasing a Tesla, you may come across the terms Autopilot, “Full Self-Driving” (aka FSD), and even occasionally “ Enhanced Autopilot ” leaving you to wonder what the difference is, especially since these packages can be rather expensive. In this article, break down the differences between Autopilot vs Full Self-Driving to help you decide for yourself which option makes sense for you and even whether the Full Self-Driving subscription is worth it.

If you’d like to read more about Autopilot and Full Self-Driving features in-depth, be sure to check out our Autopilot and Full Self Driving Review for more.

Also, be sure to check out the progress on the Full Self Driving Beta (FSD Beta) for the latest advances toward city-street driving.

The Autopilot Lineup

The Tesla driver assistance features include the following tiers below. Note that “ Enhanced Autopilot ” is something Tesla previously offered and then removed and has again folded into Full Self-Driving.

Here is the current Autopilot lineup:

Traffic Aware Cruise Control.
Automatic Steering / Lane Centering .
Navigate-on-Autopilot

Auto Lane Changes

Traffic Light & Stop Sign Recognition
Auto-Steer on City Streets

Next, we’ll break down the three areas, standard Autopilot and finally Full Self-Driving so you get a sense of what’s included in each one.

Standard Active Safety Features

First, let’s cover active standard safety features. All new Tesla vehicles built after 2016 come with a suite of sensors around the vehicle, including cameras, ultrasonic sensors and radar that allow the vehicle to understand and react to its environment (see AP1 vs AP2 vs AP3 for hardware differences). Using a powerful computer and software, the vehicle comes standard with the following free active safety features:

Lane Assist

Collision avoidance assist, speed assist, auto high beam.

These core safety features are somewhat similar to ones found standard on other vehicles, but with additional ‘intelligence’ built-in and continually improved via Tesla over-the-air software updates (something no other auto manufacturer currently does). Before the March 2019 Autopilot renaming, these were confusingly referred to as ‘standard Autopilot’, but now are simply included with the vehicles.

Here’s a breakdown of each one.

The Tesla Lane Assist feature does three things:

Alerts you if you drift from your lane (called Lane Departure Warning, similar to traditional Lane Keeping Assist functions)
Warns you if there’s an object in your blind spot (like Blind Spot Monitoring in other cars)
Intervenes if it believes you may drift into an adjacent object when driving between 30 and 85 mph.

Of the three features above, only Land Departure Warning is an option. When turned on, it will vibrate the steering wheel when it believes you are drifting out of the lane. You can turn this on and off in the Tesla Settings menu under Controls > Autopilot > Lane Departure.

The Tesla blind spot warning feature will turn the lanes on the display red if it detects an object in the blind spot when you turn on the blinker.

Finally, the steering intervention functionality will automatically steer the vehicle into a safer position within the driving lane if it detects that a potential collision with an adjacent vehicle is imminent (for example, if you accidentally drift into a lane with a car in it). It only works between 30 and 80 mph on major roadways where the lane markings are clearly visible.

The Collision Avoidance Assist portion of standard Autopilot functionality provides the following features:

Forward Collision Warning – this provides an audible and visual warning if the vehicle determines there is a high risk of a frontal collision.
Side Collision Warning – this warns the driver of potential collisions along the side of the vehicle.
Automatic Emergency Braking – this will automatically apply the brakes if there is an imminent frontal collision to help reduce or avoid impact.
Obstacle-Aware Acceleration – this reduces the vehicle’s speed if it detects an object in it’s driving path

Forward Collision Warning portion of Autopilot will not only detect vehicles but also motorcycles, pedestrians and bicyclists. It utilizes the sensors and cameras placed around the vehicle, plus the sophisticated neural network used by Tesla to identify objects. The Forward Collision Warning is the first alert to the driver, and if no action is taken the other systems such as Automatic Emergency Braking come into play.

Side Collision Warning is similar to Forward Collision Warning above but monitors the side of the car. In some cases, it will actually apply steering to avoid a collision, if possible.

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) works by utilizing the forward looking cameras and radar to determine if a collision is imminent. If a collision is considered unavoidable, Tesla AEB will apply the brakes to reduce the severity of impact or avoid it altogether, if possible. It works between 7 mph and 90 mph.

Obstacle-Aware Acceleration is meant to reduce the impact of a collision by reducing motor torque. What does that mean? If the vehicle detects an object in its path while you are pressing the accelerator pedal, it will reduce the power to the motors to mitigate potential damage to the vehicle and object. For example, if you intend to back out of your garage, but accidentally put the vehicle in forward Drive, it will detect an object in front and reduce speed to reduce damage.

Speed Assist uses GPS data and speed limit signs to help determine the car’s position and what the speed limit should be. Using that information, it can optionally be set to warn the driver on screen or via a Chime if you’re exceeding the speed limit. On the Model 3, you can also press the displayed speed limit sign on the touchscreen to automatically set the speed to the current speed limit.

Auto High Beam will automatically turn High Beams on or off depending on the surroundings. If the vehicle detects there is enough light or another car is approaching, it will turn off High Beams. Conversely, if it is sufficiently dark, it will automatically turn on High Beams.

This is a “beta” feature that truly hints towards autonomous driving capabilities of the future. It allows the vehicle to fully navigate itself on ‘closed-access’ freeways or highways (meaning those that have on-ramps and off-ramps and no cross-traffic intersections). Once you enter a destination into the navigation system and engage Autosteer, you’ll have the option to press the “Navigate on Autopilot” button. This will then follow the optimal path on the freeway, automatically changing lanes (with driver confirmation currently) and navigating freeway interchanges as needed.

Standard Autopilot Features

Autopilot is the umbrella term used by Tesla for its semi-automated driving and covers both “Standard Autopilot” and the optional “Full Self-Driving” package we’ll detail below.

The standard Autopilot included with all new vehicles (except the “off menu” Model 3 Standard Range) allows a vehicle to steer itself and automatically accelerate and brake for other vehicles and pedestrians within its lane.

This is similar to other cars today that have Stop-and-Go Adaptive Cruise Control plus Lane Centering (see Cars with Autopilot ). However, in Tesla’s case, the system is far more powerful and accurate, using cameras all around the vehicle and AI computing hardware. In addition, updates are made continually over the air – something no other manufacturer currently offers.

Autopilot provides these core features:

Traffic Aware Cruise Control (TACC)

This feature is similar to what’s often called stop-and-go Adaptive Cruise Control in other cars. It allows you set a speed and following distance to other cars and will then automatically speed up or slow down depending of the speed of the vehicle in front of you. It works at all speeds up to 90 mph and in stop-and-go traffic, including in city streets. It’s a real life-saver during rush-hour commutes on the highway.

Autosteer (Lane Centering)

Once the Autopilot system detects clear lane markings, it will allow the driver to engage Autosteer which works in conjunction with TACC above. This allows the vehicle to steer itself as long as conditions allow and the driver has their hands on the wheel (the driver must still pay attention).

For most people, these two features will be good enough, especially if you commute quite a bit on the freeway in stop-and-go traffic. Next, let’s dig into what the Full Self-Driving option offers.

Full Self-Driving

The optional $8,000 (or $99/mo. subscription) Full Self-Driving (FSD) package has all of the items plus more advanced automated driving features shown below.. Note, however, it’s not really Level 5 , fully autonomous driving, and still requires driver attention at all times.

FSD Background

Full Self-Driving was a feature long-promised by Tesla since Autopilot was originally introduced years ago. Initially, the notion was that Autopilot features would provide more of the ‘assisted driving’ features such as TACC, automatic steering, summon, etc. whereas Full Self-Driving would provide ‘autonomous’ driving capabilities, similar to Waymo (Google’s self-driving taxis).

However, it soon became clear that true autonomous driving would be years off, so Tesla changed the lineup so that Autopilot contains a more basic set of assisted driving features while ‘Full Self-Driving’ has more advanced capabilities with the promise of future real full self-driving ( Level 5 ).

Navigate On Autopilot

It’s considered fully automated “on-ramp” to “off-ramp” technology and is quite amazing and unlike anything else available for consumer use. It will even automatically suggest changing to faster lanes if it finds traffic moving more quickly in adjacent lanes.

While, in theory, Navigate on Autopilot seems very useful, in practice it isn’t perfect and many people find that the automated lane changes aren’t considerate enough of other traffic (e.g. simply turning on the blinker and waiting until the lane is clear). Other times, it may not take the correct interchange or exit. Overall, it’s a cool feature, but at this point, you’re probably just as well turning on navigational directions and changing lanes yourself.

While Autosteer and TACC are active, you can have the vehicle change lanes automatically once it’s safe to do so by turning on the blinker towards the desired lane to which you’d like to switch. The vehicle will review the surroundings and make the lane change once it’s safe to do so. This is arguably the most valuable feature package as makes lane changes safer, less stressful and allows you to avoid having to disengage and re-engage Autopilot.

The Autopark feature allows the vehicle to automatically park itself in both parallel and perpendicular spots, as long as other cars are nearby. While many auto manufacturers offer something similar, Tesla’s version handles all the steering acceleration and braking, making it truly hands-off. It’s still a bit hit-and-miss, with most people not using very often.

Summon (and Smart Summon)

One of the most unique features offered by Tesla is the Summon function. It allows you to remotely summon the vehicle out of tight parking or garage spaces, for example.

“Smart Summon” allows the vehicle to navigate more complex routes, even summon to you in private parking lots, for example. But again, this is very much a “beta” feature and more of a party trick and most of the time is not at all practical until the cars become better at self-driving.

Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control

The Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control feature allows you to more safely utilize Autopilot, specifically Traffic Aware Cruise Control and/or Autosteer, on city streets or highways where there are traffic controls.

It will automatically stop for stop light and stop signs and resume if safe (right now, if a lead car is ahead of you and moves).

Here’s how it works in this official Tesla video:

Read more about this feature in our Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control article.

Autosteer on City Streets

Autosteer on City Streets is a feature in “beta” that promises to provide better Autosteer capabilities on city streets, including turning at intersections and potentially roundabouts. You can see a preview of it in the Full Self-Driving Beta which is a complete rewrite of the system and currently only available to select testers.

Autosteer on City Streets in its current form requires extra vigilance as if monitoring a teen driver at all times. For many, this may be more stressful than simply driving yourself around the city.

Future Autonomous Full Self-Driving Capabilities

Elon Musk has long fully autonomous driving since Tesla’s 2019 Autonomy Day . However, it’s been years since Tesla first released Full Self-Driving and it still feels very immature and not ready for a driver to fully disengage.

Currently, the Full Self-Driving rewrite is in a “supervised” release (see it here) and currently being tested by those use it – it’s open to all.

Ultimately, the vision is that the car should drive almost like this video (which was an actual demonstration during Autonomy Day in 2019):

Elon Musk originally promised Level 5 (see What Do Self-Driving Levels Mean? ) capabilities for 2020 and even a Robotaxi service. Most people think that’s far too ambitious even for 2024 and that, in reality, we’ll see more gradual improvements in freeway driving and new city driving features like alerts when a traffic light turns green, handling turns at intersections, etc.

Elon Musk admits that self-driving is a difficult AI problem to solve, so when it will actually be ready for full release, remains to be seen (likely years).

We have to solve a huge part of AI just to make cars drive themselves. In retrospect, it was inevitable. The road system is designed for cameras (eyes) & neural nets (brains). — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 5, 2022

Is Full Self-Driving Worth the Cost?

Ok, so here’s the $8,000 question – is the Full Self-Driving (FSD) package worth the cost? In short, for most people, the answer is currently no . However, since Tesla offers a $99/mo. subscription package, you’re able to try it out if your Tesla has Hardware 3 (if not, there may be a $1,500 cost to upgrade).

NOTE: If you’re buying a new and use a Tesla referral code , you can get 3 months of FSD for free as of this writing.

While stopping at stop signs and traffic lights is useful when driving with Autopilot or Cruise Control on city streets, it’s still fairly rudimentary and requires the driver to acknowledge traffic controls if there are no lead cars in front of you. You still need to pay very close attention to what is going on.

The big promise for Full Self-Driving, of course, is that we’ll see more autonomous self-driving features roll out in 2024, according to the Tesla 2019 Autonomy Day summit. Keep in mind, however, that most experts think that’s a stretch we’ll see a real autonomous feature-complete version of Full Self-Driving anytime soon, meaning an attentive driver will always be required; making it more driver assistance than fully autonomous.

That said, there’s no doubt the advanced driver-assistance features will continue to improve in the Full Self-Driving package, like those in the current Supervised release , and if getting those updates is important to you, then the package may be worth the price.

Tesla Full Self Driving Beta Preview
Autonomous Full Self-Driving Capabilities
Autopilot and Full Self-Driving Review .
Tesla Autonomy Day presentation.

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March 01, 2023

Understanding Tesla's different Autopilot software packages

Guest post: Blane Erwin, Current Automotive

It might not be robotaxi-ready yet, but Autopilot is already one of the leading semi-autonomous driving software suites available today. It has tons of features, is constantly being improved upon, and is the single biggest option most consider when considering a Tesla.

Source: Tesla

It’s also one of the most confusing features from Tesla. With four different hardware versions and four different software packages released over the years, it’s tough to keep track of what was available when, and what each system can do. It’s easier to understand the software once you know about the hardware that makes it all work. For a quick refresher, check out our comprehensive overview of Tesla's Autopilot Hardware .

In short, Autopilot is really just a catch-all term that refers to Tesla’s entire suite of semi-autonomous driving features. Each feature has a specific task, such as maintaining speed, steering, or parking. Over the years, Tesla has sold four different Autopilot software packages that bundle these features together in different ways.

Tesla Autopilot Features

Traffic Aware Cruise Control uses the Tesla’s radar to lock-on to the vehicle in front of it and match its speed. Unlike many other automaker’s adaptive cruise control systems, Traffic Aware Cruise Control will bring Tesla all the way down to a stop and back up to speed again with no driver input required.

Autosteer uses the Tesla’s cameras to track lane lines. The car will then provide steering input necessary to keep a Tesla centered in its lane. While many other automakers use reactive “lane keep assist” systems that will bounce the car off of lane lines, Tesla actually steers proactively to handle relatively significant curves in the road. It cannot currently handle turns at intersections, and Tesla requires the driver to keep their hands on the wheel for the ability to make fast corrections as needed.

Auto Lane Change will automatically make a lane change. Initiate the lane change with the turn signal, indicating the desired lane. Autopilot will verify (or wait) for that lane to clear, then move the car over on its own.

Autopark will park the Tesla autonomously – hands off, for real. Drive at low speeds along parking spots, waiting for the screen to indicate that it sees a parking spot. The spot needs to be near other vehicles, as the car uses its sonar sensors to look for the space – it can’t see the painted lines. When it does find a suitable spot, put the car in reverse and click “Begin” on the Autopark prompt on the center screen. Autopark can park in both parallel and perpendicular parking spots.

Youtube: Current Automotive

Summon allows the car to move without anyone inside of it, and it comes in two flavors: Basic Summon and Smart Summon. Basic Summon only allows straight forward and backwards movement while the driver pushes a button on the Tesla App. Smart Summon will enable the Tesla to autonomously navigate its way to the driver in a parking lot.

Navigate on Autopilot (beta) allows semi-autonomous driving and navigation from on-ramp to off-ramp on the highway. If the driver enters a destination that requires highway driving into the navigation system, an option for Navigate on Autopilot will appear. Navigate on Autopilot will make lane changes to overtake traffic, move out of the passing lane, make exits, and will travel through highway interchanges with no driver input required.

Stop Sign and Traffic Light Control (beta) is the first feature meant for use on city streets. Tesla vehicles with this feature can see and respond to stop signs and traffic signals. As of right now, the car will slow down for all signals (even if they’re green). The driver must give a confirmation tap on the drive selector stalk or accelerator pedal for the car to continue through an intersection.

Autosteer on City Streets (unreleased) is still unknown in scope. Based on the name, a reasonable expectation might be that it will be able to handle sharper turns typical of city streets and turn through intersections after the driver indicates the turn with the stalk.

Tesla Autopilot Software Packages

The above features have been bundled in four different ways over the years, as laid out in the chart below. Please note that this chart reflects the historical price for Enhanced Autopilot, not the upgrade Tesla suddenly made available from September 19 to September 30, 2020. During this brief time period, vehicles with base Autopilot will be eligible to upgrade to Enhanced Autopilot for $4,000. Full Self Driving remains a $5,000 upgrade for vehicles with Enhanced Autopilot, so it will be cheaper for vehicles with Autopilot to go straight to Full Self Driving – a total of $8,000 – than it would for them to first upgrade to Enhanced Autopilot, then upgrade again to Full Self Driving – a total of $9,000.

Source: Current Automotive

Full Self Driving is listed twice because it has been sold during two distinct time periods. Any car with Full Self Driving will have the same features, but the price paid for FSD may have differed depending on the time it was purchased.

Upgrade paths are available for all vehicles with any version of Autopilot Hardware. Tesla vehicles with Autopilot Hardware 1.0 but without Autopilot 1 software can still upgrade today, even though Autopilot 1 hasn’t been available new since 2016.

Vehicles with Autopilot Hardware 2.0 or greater can upgrade to basic Autopilot for $3,000, and cars with Basic Autopilot or Enhanced Autopilot can upgrade to Full Self Driving for $8,000 and $5,000 respectively.

Tesla has slowly been raising the price of Full Self Driving and may continue to do so in the future. The company has also said plans are in place to offer subscription options by the end of the year.

This story is an excerpt from an earlier article via Current Automotive ; Editor's Note: Current Automotive is the first-ever U.S. car retailer focused exclusively on used electric cars launched by two former Tesla employees.

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Tesla Enhanced Autopilot vs Full Self Driving: which one should you buy?

If you're paying for a better Tesla Autopilot, which option should you take?

Every Tesla you can buy comes with Basic Autopilot as standard. That means you can enjoy the company’s simplest autonomous features without having to pay any more money. But basic also means limited, and Tesla offers two additional tiers of Autopilot — so long as you’re willing to pay for them.

Teslas are also capable of coming with Enhanced Autopilot and Full Self Driving . By parting with several thousand dollars, you can ensure your car can do more things without (much) intervention from the driver. But both tiers do different things and, crucially, cost different amounts. So if you can afford better Autopilot on your Tesla, should you buy Enhanced Autopilot or Full Self Driving?

Enhanced Autopilot vs Full Self Driving: Price

The crucial difference between the two Autopilot tiers is the price. Enhanced Autopilot will set you back $6,000, while Full Self Driving costs $15,000 — two and a half times as much.

Full Self Driving is also available in subscription form. It costs $199 a month for drivers with Basic Autopilot to upgrade to Full Self Driving, or $99 for drivers that already have Enhanced Autopilot. The subscription is a rolling monthly contract, and drivers are able to cancel at any time without penalty.

It’s not currently possible to upgrade to Enhanced Autopilot with a subscription.

Enhanced Autopilot vs Full Self Driving: Basic Autopilot Features

Basic by name, basic by nature, relatively speaking. Basic Autopilot comprises four key features: blind-spot monitoring, emergency braking, adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance. Crucially these features can work at the same time, meaning a Tesla can control steering and acceleration when Autopilot is engaged.

In short, this means Autopilot can keep your Tesla centered within a clear lane and can alter its own speed based on traffic ahead.

Enhanced Autopilot vs Full Self Driving: Enhanced Autopilot Features

Enhanced Autopilot has all the same features as Basic Autopilot, plus a bunch more. The most useful is the Auto Lane Change feature, which allows the car to switch lanes depending on surrounding traffic. That way it can overtake slow cars, and prepare for merges and exits that may be occurring ahead.

That last part ties into Enhanced Autopilot’s ‘Navigate on Autopilot’ feature. Using the Tesla navigation system built into the car, this feature is able to navigate on highways “from on-ramp to off-ramp." In other words you just need to sit back and be ready in case the car does something stupid, which can and does happen from time to time.

Enhanced Autopilot also comes with autonomous parking features as well. Autopark is capable of pulling into parallel and perpendicular parking spaces by itself. This feature will also check for empty parking spaces around you, just in case you’re really struggling to find a spot.

Finally, Smart Summon does the complete opposite. This feature prompts the car to pull out of a parking space, and navigate the parking lot towards you. Which is helpful if you’re parked in a tight space, or straight-up forgot where you left your car.

Enhanced Autopilot vs Full Self Driving: Full Self Driving Features

Despite its name, Tesla’s Full Self-Driving Autopilot does not mean your car is capable of driving itself. It’s something that has got Tesla in legal trouble more than once, notably in Germany and California . CEO Elon Musk has been promising various deadlines for true self driving for a few years now, but so far he hasn’t been able to put his money where his mouth is.

At the time of writing Full Self Driving offers all the same functionality as Basic and Enhanced Autopilot tiers. The only exclusive feature included in the public release of FSD is traffic light and stop sign control. Autosteer on city streets is listed as “coming soon," but is currently only available as part of the Full Self Driving Beta.

Tesla drivers can express their interest to join the FSD beta from their car’s infotainment screen, but the company is picky about who is allowed to take part. The bare essentials include owning a car with Full Self Driving, whether it's permanent or a subscription, and a Tesla Safety Score (visible in the app) of 95 or above. But even then it’s not guaranteed.

Tesla isn’t continually adding beta testers, so you need to be able to wait several weeks or months for the next intake — assuming Tesla even chooses you to take part. You’ll need to maintain your safety score throughout, and Tesla reserves the right to kick you out of the beta if your driving ability deteriorates.

Enhanced Autopilot vs Full Self Driving: Which should you buy?

An all electric Tesla Model 3 in white on cement road with trees in background on sunny day.

To put it simply, Full Self Driving is incredibly expensive. $9,000 more than Enhanced Autopilot, as of the last price hike. And for that price you get traffic light and stop sign control, alongside a chance to join Tesla’s FSD beta; not a guarantee, a chance.

In the past, things were different. Until earlier this year Tesla drivers could only choose between Basic Autopilot and Full Self Driving. That made the cost of upgrading a little bit more justifiable, since you actually had something to show for it.

These days, now that Enhanced Autopilot is officially back as an option, you only have the promise of what could be, rather than what is actually available today.

Things could change, especially if Autosteer on City Streets is added to the public version of Full Self Driving. But right now we only have a promise from Elon Musk that it will happen in the near future. I know I wouldn’t want to bet $9,000 on Musk keeping his promises, given his history of doing the exact opposite .

Of course. Full Self Driving is only going to go up in price. Musk himself admitted that, and the cost has already risen in price multiple times since it launched. Originally costing $8,000, the price later rose to $10,000 in 2021, $12,000 in January 2022 and finally $15,000 in September.

By paying for FSD now, you’re essentially locking in the price now and betting that it’ll be worth it in the future. But right now, if you’re asking me, I’d stick with Enhanced Autopilot and save that $9,000 for something else.

Next: How do self-driving cars work? Everything you need to know .

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Simple Flying

Autopilot: a complete guide.

With the autopilot active, the pilot can focus on other important tasks, such as navigation and communication.

The autopilot is an important component of an aircraft. It reduces the mental and physical fatigue of flying an aircraft during less eventful flight phases, such as the cruise, and keeps the pilot sharp for more testing flight regimes, such as the approach and the landing. With the autopilot active, the pilot can focus on other important flying tasks, such as navigation, communication, and weather analysis and avoidance .

The autopilot also gives a much smoother ride to the passengers as it reacts faster to disturbances than a human pilot. It corrects the trajectory of an aircraft with fewer oscillations. As such, autopilot is a great tool to have in an aircraft.

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The first autopilots

Autopilot has a long history since being invented by the Sperry corporation in 1912, just nine years after Wright Brothers' first flight in 1903. The invention was led by Lawrence Sperry, son of Elmer Sperry. Early autopilots were simple, and used gyros to sense the aircraft's movement and compare it to the pilot's inputs.

The gyro gimbals were strapped to the aircraft and allowed to move with it. A spinning gyro maintains its position due to rigidity, and it retains its fixed position even if the gimbals move. This difference between the gimbal and the gyro is used to deduce the behavior of the aircraft. For this, the gyro is provided with electrical power.

If there is a movement in the gimbals (due to aircraft movement), a potential difference is generated in the circuit, generating a signal. This generated signal is amplified by an amplifier that sends the information to the autopilot servo motors, physically moving the control surface(s) to maintain the dictated state.

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For example, a vertical gyro is used to sense the changes in pitch. With the pilot commanding the autopilot to maintain level flight, if an atmospheric disturbance were to pitch the aircraft nose up, the gyro gimbals move up.

This generates a signal, which then commands the pitch servomotor to deflect the elevator down to pitch the aircraft nose down, so that level flight is maintained. A vertical gyro is also used in the roll axis, and a directional gyro is used in the yaw axis. The roll and yaw autopilot control works similarly to the pitch control. The roll control keeps the wings level, and the yaw control keeps the aircraft from yawing.

These autopilot control systems are known as inner loop control systems, and only provide augmented stability. These autopilots were not by any means "on and leave" systems, as the pilots had to constantly nurse the system with control switches and/or knobs to keep the aircraft from drifting.

For instance, if the pilot wants to roll the aircraft, they must manually turn a roll control knob until the aircraft starts to bank. Then, as the aircraft approaches the desired heading, the knob must be centered to maintain level flight.

Types of autopilots

There are three main types of autopilots, with these being:

1) Single-axis autopilots

These autopilots are single-channel, and can only control the roll axis of the aircraft. They are also known as wing leveler systems.

2) Two-axis autopilots

The two-axis autopilots can control the aircraft both in pitch and roll axes. One autopilot channel controls the elevators in pitch, and the second controls the ailerons/roll spoilers in the roll.

3) Three-axis autopilots

Three axes autopilots can control the aircraft in roll, pitch and yaw. These autopilots can control the elevators, the ailerons/roll spoilers, and the rudder. With such an autopilot, an aircraft can be used to perform automatic landings and automatic rollout after touchdown.

Modern autopilots

When compared to early-generation autopilots, modern autopilots are highly advanced. One of these autopilots' key features is the greater integration level. Modern autopilots are a part of the aircraft's Auto Flight Control System (AFCS), or simply the Autoflight system.

At the heart of the AFCS is the Flight Management Guidance Computer (FMGC) or the Flight Management Guidance System (FMGS). Some manufacturers also call it the Autopilot Flight Director System (AFDS). The FMGC is fed by multiple systems, such as inertial reference units, GPS, navigational beacons, flight control computers, air data systems, and Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC).

The FMGC has two main components, namely a management component and a guidance component. The management system controls the following aspects:

Flight planning.
Flight path prediction and performance optimization.
Aircraft navigation, navigation radio tuning, and control.
Lateral and vertical flight path control when following the FMGC calculated path.

Meanwhile, the guidance part of the FMGC controls:

The autopilot.
Flight Director.
Engine control through the thrust levers (autothrust or autothrottle).

The pilot interacts with the AFCS in two ways. One is through the Flight Control Unit (FCU) or the Mode Control Panel (MCP). With the FCU, the pilot can use buttons and knobs to control the aircraft's speed, heading, altitude, and vertical speed in climb and descent through the autopilot.

It is, in a way, similar to the controls of an early-generation autopilot. For example, if the pilot wants to fly on a heading of 035 degrees, they simply turn the heading knob until 035 degrees is selected. The autopilot then turns to 035 and levels out at the heading.

The difference nowadays is that autopilot is now smart enough to know when to level out. As such, the pilot does not have to anticipate it and turn the knob back to zero. The FMGC, with the data it collects from various sources, tells the autopilot when to turn and when to level out.

The speed control is also very similar. If the pilot commands a speed by using the control panel, the autothrust or autothrottles react as necessary by decreasing the power or adding power. This information is fed to the FMGC by the FADEC, which tells the autopilot how it needs to maneuver to maintain the pilot-dictated speed.

The control of the autopilot through the FCU/MCP is highly advanced. However, this is nothing compared to what the autopilot can achieve through the flight management system. When the pilot hands over the aircraft to the flight management system, it orders the autopilot steering commands through the guidance computers.

During the pre-flight preparations, the pilot programs the flight management system through the Command Display Unit (CDU) or the Multifunctional Control Display Unit (MCDU). Pilots also call it simply 'the box.'

The pilot inputs the flight level to be flown, the cost index, the weights, fuel, and, finally, the flight plan into the FMGC through the box during pre-flight. Once the MCDU is set, the flight management system is ready to navigate and control nearly all aspects of the flight.

With the autopilot engaged and the control given to the flight management system, everything is automatic; it knows when to increase the speed, when to reduce the speed, when to level off, when to begin the descent, and more.

The important thing to remember is that the MCDU is a computer, and the GIGO (or Garbage In, Garbage Out) applies here. As such, pilots must always cross-check the data inserted into the MCDU to avoid errors in the FMGC.

The FMGC also provides the pilot with flight directors, which appear on the Primary Flight Display (PFD). The flight directors, or FDs, are simply command bars that show the pilot how to maneuver the aircraft, and thus can be said to be a very basic form of autopilot.

The FD bars can show commands either from the FCU/MCP or the flight management system. The vertical FD bar commands roll changes, and the horizontal bar commands pitch changes. The pilots can follow these bars when in manual flight for accurate flight path tracking.

What are your overall thoughts about autopilot? Let us know what you think in the comment section.

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Tesla enhanced autopilot vs. full self-driving: differences explained.

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Tesla recently relaunched the Enhanced Autopilot package in the U.S., but how is it different from Full Self-Driving? Every Tesla car produced after September 2014 can access the various levels of Tesla’s Autopilot mode , with Basic Autopilot included on all models. As electric vehicles continue to populate roads and the market, efforts are underway to equip future models with better capabilities to appeal to new consumers. However, issues like driving range, a low number of charging stations, and high maintenance costs currently impede the growth of EVs. Tesla’s Autopilot project seeks to provide drivers with vehicles that are nearly autonomous and can operate without the risk of a collision.

Since Tesla Autopilot’s debut in 2014, the California-based company has rolled out multiple features using over-the-air software updates . Tesla owners don't need to visit their dealerships to purchase any of the Autopilot packages or upgrade an existing package. All they need to do is use a Tesla account to purchase either Basic Autopilot, Enhanced Autopilot, or Full Self-Driving, and upon confirmation of purchase, the desired software is added. As a way of allowing consumers to get a feel of their innovative products, Tesla allows drivers to try all levels of its Autopilot at any Tesla store.

Related: A Tesla Android Update Allows Apple CarPlay To Work On Every Model

Although Tesla's Autopilot is arguably one of the most unique driver-assist packages because of the variety of features, Tesla hasn't attained full autonomy yet. This means that drivers are expected to stay alert whenever Autopilot is enabled. Tesla currently occupies the top spot on the list of most crashes associated with advanced driver-assist features . This implies that the technology is far from perfect, which is why Tesla says that any of the Autopilot modes must be used with a fully attentive driver. Today, the Basic Autopilot mode comes as a standard feature on all vehicles made after September 2014. The mode offers a couple of fundamental safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance that drivers on a budget will appreciate. On the other hand, the Enhanced Autopilot and Full Self-Driving modes are available at an added cost. Tesla recently restored Enhanced Autopilot in the U.S. and other countries, having fitted it with more features than it offered when it was first introduced.

Should You Get Enhanced Autopilot Or FSD?

A key difference between Tesla Enhanced Autopilot and Full Self-Driving is the pricing. While the former costs $6,000, drivers are expected to pay $12,000 to access the latter. Another difference is that while Tesla's Autopilot packages require human effort , the Full Self-Driving mode doesn't require the same amount of driver supervision that Enhanced Autopilot demands. Those using Full Self-Driving will need to commit little effort as the vehicle can stop at traffic signals and steer independently in city streets. However, autonomy isn't yet absolute and Tesla will continue to update its suite of driver-assist technologies.

The newly-released Enhanced Autopilot comes with all the functionality of Basic Autopilot and includes several FSD features like Navigate on Autopilot, Autopark, Summon, Smart Summon, and Auto Lane Change. Full Self-Driving offers everything provided by Basic Autopilot and Enhanced Autopilot, along with two unique features called Traffic And Stop Sign Control and Autosteer On City Streets. However, Traffic And Stop Sign Control, a feature that identifies stop signs and traffic lights and automatically slows the Tesla to a stop upon approach, remains in a beta testing phase. Additionally, the Autosteer On City Streets feature is yet to be released. For most Tesla users looking for an upgrade, the Enhanced Autopilot package makes the most sense, given that it brings many FSD features for half the price. For users who want their hands on all the new technology Tesla has in store though, the Full Self-Driving package is the better option.

Next: Here's How Cadillac Super Cruise & Tesla Autopilot Differ

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Home » Tesla Enhanced Autopilot: The Ultimate Driving Experience Compared to Basic Autopilot

Tesla Enhanced Autopilot: The Ultimate Driving Experience Compared to Basic Autopilot

December 16, 2023 7 min read

Tesla’s Autopilot is a suite of advanced driver assistance systems that can help drivers navigate the road more safely and efficiently. It includes a range of features such as Traffic-Aware Cruise Control, Autosteer, and Auto Lane Change, which can help drivers maintain their speed, stay in their lane, and avoid collisions.

However, there are two different versions of Autopilot available: Basic Autopilot and Enhanced Autopilot. In this article, we will explore the differences between these two versions of Autopilot and help you decide which one is right for you.

Basic Autopilot is the standard version of Autopilot that comes with all Tesla vehicles. It includes features such as Traffic-Aware Cruise Control, Autosteer, Auto Lane Change , and Autopark .

These features can help drivers maintain their speed, stay in their lane, change lanes automatically, and park their car in a parking spot . However, Basic Autopilot does not include some of the more advanced features that are available with Enhanced Autopilot.

Enhanced Autopilot is a premium version of Autopilot that can be added to your Tesla vehicle for an additional fee . It includes all of the features of Basic Autopilot, as well as some additional features such as Navigate on Autopilot, Summon, and Autosteer on city streets.

These features can help drivers navigate more complex driving scenarios, such as highway interchanges and city streets . However, Enhanced Autopilot is more expensive than Basic Autopilot, and it may not be necessary for all drivers.

The table below highlights the differences between Basic and Enhanced Autopilot.

Table of Contents

Understanding Tesla Autopilot

Tesla Autopilot is a suite of advanced safety and convenience features that are designed to assist drivers with the driving experience. Autopilot is available in two versions: Basic Autopilot and Enhanced Autopilot .

What is Basic Autopilot?

Basic Autopilot is a standard feature on all new Tesla vehicles. It includes adaptive cruise control, autosteer, and lane-keeping assistance . Adaptive cruise control allows the car to automatically adjust its speed to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of you. Autosteer allows the car to steer itself within its lane, while lane-keeping assistance helps keep the car centered in its lane.

What is Enhanced Autopilot?

Enhanced Autopilot is a paid upgrade that includes all the features of Basic Autopilot, plus additional features such as auto park, summon, and Navigate-on-Autopilot . Auto park allows the car to automatically park itself in a parking spot, while summon allows the car to drive itself to you in a parking lot. Navigate-on-Autopilot is a feature that allows the car to automatically change lanes, take exits, and navigate on highways with minimal driver input.

Driver Supervision

It’s important to note that both Basic Autopilot and Enhanced Autopilot require active driver supervision . This means that the driver must keep their hands on the steering wheel at all times and be prepared to take control of the vehicle if necessary. Tesla emphasizes that Autopilot is not a fully autonomous driving system and should not be treated as such.

In summary, Tesla Autopilot is a suite of advanced safety and convenience features that can assist drivers with the driving experience. Basic Autopilot is a standard feature on all new Tesla vehicles and includes adaptive cruise control, autosteer, and lane-keeping assistance. Enhanced Autopilot is a paid upgrade that includes all the features of Basic Autopilot, plus additional features such as auto park, summon, and Navigate-on-Autopilot. Both versions of Autopilot require active driver supervision and are not fully autonomous driving systems.

Detailed Comparison: Basic Autopilot vs Enhanced Autopilot

Tesla offers two versions of the Autopilot system: Basic Autopilot and Enhanced Autopilot. In this section, we will compare the two versions of Autopilot to help you decide which one is right for you.

The Basic Autopilot includes features such as adaptive cruise control, auto lane change, and autopark. On the other hand, the Enhanced Autopilot includes all the features of the Basic Autopilot plus Navigate on Autopilot, which allows the car to automatically take exits and change lanes on the highway.

The Basic Autopilot is included as a standard feature in all new Tesla vehicles . However, if you want to upgrade to Enhanced Autopilot, it will cost you an additional fee . The price of Enhanced Autopilot varies depending on when you purchased your Tesla.

Subscription

Tesla also offers a subscription service for Enhanced Autopilot . This means you can pay for Enhanced Autopilot on a monthly basis instead of paying for it upfront . This can be a good option if you’re not sure if you want to commit to Enhanced Autopilot long-term.

In conclusion, the decision between Basic Autopilot and Enhanced Autopilot comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you primarily drive on the highway and want the convenience of Navigate on Autopilot, then Enhanced Autopilot may be the better option for you. However, if you’re satisfied with the features of Basic Autopilot, then there is no need to pay extra for Enhanced Autopilot.

Safety Features and Considerations

When it comes to safety, Tesla’s Autopilot system is designed to assist the driver and reduce the risk of collision, but it is not a substitute for an attentive driver.

Active Safety Features

Tesla’s active safety features are designed to help prevent accidents from happening. These features include automatic emergency braking, collision warning, and side collision warning . Automatic emergency braking is designed to stop the car in the event of an impending collision, while collision warning and side collision warning alert the driver to potential hazards.

Enhanced Autopilot vs Basic Autopilot

Tesla’s Enhanced Autopilot offers additional safety features such as Navigate on Autopilot and Summon . Navigate on Autopilot provides automatic lane changes and highway exits, while Summon allows the car to park itself in tight spaces. Basic Autopilot , on the other hand, comprises four key features: blind-spot monitoring, emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assistance .

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has conducted several investigations into Tesla’s Autopilot system, including a probe into a fatal crash involving a Model S in 2016. While the NHTSA has not found any defects in the Autopilot system, it has issued guidance to manufacturers on how to ensure the safe operation of autonomous vehicles.

Tesla’s Autopilot system relies on a combination of cameras, radar, and ultrasonic sensors to detect and respond to its surroundings . The cameras provide a 360-degree view of the car’s surroundings, while the radar and ultrasonic sensors help to detect objects in the car’s path.

Overall, Tesla’s Autopilot system is designed to assist the driver and reduce the risk of collision, but it is important to remember that it is not a substitute for an attentive driver.

Full Self-Driving: A Look Ahead

As Tesla continues to develop its autonomous driving system, Full Self-Driving (FSD) is the ultimate goal. FSD will allow the car to operate without any human intervention. This means that the car will be able to navigate city streets, stop at traffic lights and stop signs, and recognize and respond to other traffic signals.

FSD is currently in beta testing, and it is only available to a select group of Tesla owners . Elon Musk has stated that he expects FSD to be fully released by the end of 2023. However, it is important to note that FSD is still in development, and it is not yet clear when it will be available to the general public.

One of the key features of FSD is the ability to operate as a robotaxi . This means that the car will be able to pick up passengers and take them to their destination without any human intervention . This feature has the potential to revolutionize the transportation industry, and it could significantly reduce the number of cars on the road.

Another important aspect of FSD is the lack of a traditional steering wheel and pedals . Instead, the car will be controlled by a touchscreen interface. This will allow for a more streamlined and intuitive driving experience.

It is important to note that FSD is not yet fully autonomous, and it still requires human supervision . Tesla owners who use FSD will be required to pay attention to the road and be ready to take over control of the car if necessary.

Overall, FSD represents the future of autonomous driving, and it has the potential to significantly change the way we think about transportation. As Tesla continues to develop and refine its autonomous driving system, we can expect to see more and more features added to FSD, making it an even more compelling option for Tesla owners.

Controversies and Misunderstandings

When it comes to Tesla’s Autopilot system, there have been a few controversies and misunderstandings that have arisen over the years. Here are some of the key issues:

Misleading Terminology

One of the most significant controversies surrounding Tesla’s Autopilot system is the naming of its features. In 2021, National Transportation Safety Board Chair Jennifer Homendy criticized Tesla’s use of the term “Full Self-Driving” (FSD) to describe its autonomous driving features. Homendy argued that the name was misleading and could lead to dangerous situations where drivers overestimate the capabilities of the system .

Beta Testing

Another issue that has come up with Tesla’s Autopilot system is the use of beta testing for new features. Tesla often releases new Autopilot features to a select group of customers for testing before rolling them out to the wider public .

While this can help Tesla refine its features and catch bugs, it has also led to some safety concerns. For example, in 2021, a Tesla owner was killed in a crash while using a beta version of the FSD system.

Full Self-Driving (FSD)

As mentioned earlier, Tesla’s FSD system has come under fire for its misleading name. However, beyond that, there are also concerns about the safety and reliability of the system.

While Tesla claims that FSD is capable of fully autonomous driving, many experts are skeptical. Additionally, there have been reports of the system malfunctioning or failing to detect obstacles on the road .

Overall, while Tesla’s Autopilot system has many benefits, there are also some controversies and misunderstandings that surround it. It’s important to understand the limitations of the system and to use it responsibly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Tesla’s basic and enhanced autopilot features?

Tesla’s basic autopilot feature includes traffic-aware cruise control and Autosteer , which helps keep the car centered in its lane. Enhanced Autopilot includes additional features such as Navigate on Autopilot, Summon, and Auto Lane Change .

Is it worth subscribing to Tesla’s Enhanced Autopilot?

Whether or not it’s worth subscribing to Tesla’s Enhanced Autopilot depends on your driving habits and needs. If you frequently drive on the highway and in heavy traffic, the additional features offered by Enhanced Autopilot, such as Navigate on Autopilot and Auto Lane Change, may be worth the investment . However, if you primarily use your car for short commutes or drive in areas with little traffic, the basic autopilot feature may be sufficient.

How does Navigate on Autopilot work?

Navigate on Autopilot uses real-time traffic data to autonomously navigate the car to a destination. The feature can suggest lane changes, take exits, and even park the car in a parking lot. However, the driver must still pay attention to the road and be prepared to take control of the car if necessary.

What is the price difference between Tesla’s basic and enhanced autopilot?

The price difference between Tesla’s basic and enhanced autopilot varies depending on the model of the car. As of November 2023, the price for basic autopilot ranges from $3,000 to $5,000 , while the price for Enhanced Autopilot ranges from $7,000 to $10,000 .

Can basic autopilot stop at red lights?

No, basic autopilot cannot stop at red lights . This feature is only available with Full Self-Driving Capability, which is currently in beta testing and not yet available to the general public.

How do I check if my Tesla has enhanced autopilot?

To check if your Tesla has Enhanced Autopilot, go to the Autopilot settings in your car’s touchscreen display. If you see options for Navigate on Autopilot, Summon, and Auto Lane Change, then your car has Enhanced Autopilot. If you do not see these options, then your car has basic autopilot.

Unveiling the Truth: Do Teslas Have Hydraulic Brakes?

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How GM Ultra Cruise Differs From Tesla's Autopilot

GM's Ultra Cruise differs from Tesla's Full Self-Driving tech in a few key areas, ranging from the sensors that power them to how they're portrayed to potential buyers.

GM Ultra Cruise Not Tesla's Autopilot

General Motors

2024 Cadillac Celestiq

The Cadillac Celestiq is on its way for the 2024 model year, bringing ultra-high-end styling and luxury and a sky-high price tag. Beyond its lavish build quality and futuristic styling, the upcoming EV will debut a new semi-autonomous driving function for General Motors. Called Ultra Cruise, the feature builds on the existing hands-free Super Cruise function with more advanced hands-free features and sensors.

Though it’s more advanced than the existing system, GM is careful not to label Ultra Cruise as an autonomous driving system, saying that drivers will still need to pay attention at all times. The marketing and language surrounding Ultra Cruise is a departure from the way Tesla portrays its full self-driving (FSD) system, but there are a few other significant differences to note.

Unlike FSD, which lets drivers hand over control on city streets and other scenarios, Ultra Cruise’s functionality will be limited on rollout. It won’t work in roundabouts, intersections and parking lots at first, and will hand over control to the driver in those situations. The functionality will improve over time, however, eventually covering almost every paved road.

Another significant difference between GM’s Ultra Cruise and Tesla FSD is the sensor setup that guides each system. Tesla relies on cameras only to view and absorb data about the world around the vehicle, while Ultra Cruise uses short- and long-range radars in addition to cameras. GM also incorporates LiDAR behind the windshield and another camera inside to monitor the driver’s attention levels.

Perhaps the most significant difference between the two is how they’re advertised to prospective buyers. Tesla is under investigation for crashes that took place while drivers were using its FSD technology. The automaker hasn’t done much to curb the perception that vehicles can actually drive themselves when equipped with the tech. Its beta test program is running on public roads in the hands of everyday drivers, so it’s easy to see how things could go sideways.

General Motors is taking a more measured approach to the Ultra Cruise rollout, saying that its fundamental strategy is to safely release the functions to the public. Its testing regimen has examined the handoff point between tech and human control, saying that the most consistent and clear operation presents the safest situation.

Super Cruise offers hands-free driving on highways and is available in several vehicles, including the Chevrolet Bolt EUV , Silverado and others. Ultra Cruise will be far more limited to start, with availability only on the insanely expensive and bespoke Celestiq EV. Even so, the rollout to other models will be faster than it was with Super Cruise. However, GM said it was not ready to make promises on which functions would be available at launch due to its extensive and ongoing testing.

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Which is right for you: Tesla’s Autopilot or Enhanced Autopilot?

There's a lot of talk about full self driving, but autopilot is probably the real mvp.

I think it’s pretty fitting that I wrote this article while sitting in my local Tesla service centre, getting some annual maintenance checks done. Autonomous driving has always been of significant interest to me. I absolutely hate driving, but living in Canada, I see it as a need more than a want.

I recently have begun driving on the highway more to visit family, so I opted to spend the $11,800 and test Autopilot and Enhanced Autopilot to see if any of the provided features would add some benefit to my life. That gave me the idea to write this article to share an overview of Tesla’s software packages along with my personal perspectives on them.

What is Autopilot?

Autopilot is Tesla’s standard driver assistant software package. Autopilot includes two features: ‘Traffic-Aware Cruise Control’ and ‘Autosteer.’ Both of these features are relatively common in modern cars. Once engaged, autosteer keeps your Tesla in a clearly marked lane and can only be activated once cruise control is used while driving at reasonably high speeds. Autosteer then disengages once the driver presses the brake. On the other hand, Traffic-Aware Cruise Control matches your Tesla’s speed to the traffic around it while cruise control is engaged.

While I have never tried Autosteer in the rain or snow, I can say that using it over the past few months has been reliable. Not once in my experience has my Tesla left the lane and, in all honesty, is a better driver than I am. Traffic-Aware Cruise Control certainly works well, but some might say it’s overly cautious.

I have two complaints with Autopilot. First, it doesn’t like it when one-lane highways split into two lanes, with the left lane being for passing and the right being where cars should go when not. Autosteer wants to put you in the far left lane, so I have to disengage, adjust lanes, and reengage. It would be nice for Tesla to address this frustration.

Second, on some single-lane highways, Autopilot’s software artificially limits its cruising speed to a maximum of 10km/h above the speed limit regardless of what the driver sets the cruise control. This limitation is incredibly frustrating. If the driver is paying attention to the road and is held responsible for the risk they take, Tesla should not be intervening with some arbitrary limit.

Initially, Model 3’s did not include Autopilot. It wasn’t until after April 2019 that Tesla began including Autopilot with Model 3s. If you bought a Model 3 after April 2019, congratulations–you probably already have Autopilot and maybe have even been using it. However, if you bought a Model 3 built before April 2019, as I did, this upgrade will cost you $4,000.

What is Enhanced Autopilot?

Do you have another $7,800? If so, perhaps you want to purchase Enhanced Autopilot! Enhanced Autopilot includes five features: ‘Navigate on Autopilot,’ ‘Auto Lane Change,’ ‘Autopark,’ ‘Summon,’ and ‘Smart Summon.’

Navigate on Autopilot takes cruise control Autopilot one step further by self-driving your Tesla from a highway’s on-ramp to the destination off-ramp while also suggesting lane changes, automatically turning on your turn signal, navigating interchanges and taking the correct exit. In my experience, Navigate on Autopilot was really neat — it functioned well, and I think it would be particularly helpful if you’re driving to areas you aren’t overly familiar with.

Auto Lane Change does just as the name says, it will automatically adjust lanes for you, or you can set it so you must authorize the lane change. I found Auto Lane Change to be a neat feature conceptually. Still, I found myself needing to speed up my Tesla to actually pass the other car. My Tesla rarely ever fully committed.

Autopark is a funny feature because while it will park your Tesla for you, it hilariously does so overly cautiously by making what feels like a hundred minor adjustments, similar to how a first-time driver might park. I initially wanted Autopark to assist with those tight parallel parking spaces but to activate Autopark, your Tesla must think it’s near a parking spot, so I was only ever able to get the feature to work in a well-marked parking lot and never when needing to parallel park.

Summon is a simple feature that allows you to move your Tesla forwards and backwards from the Tesla app. Summon is a great feature when parking in a tight space. The challenge with Summon is it hardly justifies the $7,800 price tag of Enhanced Autopilot, in my opinion.

Lastly, there’s Smart Summon. Smart Summon is supposed to intelligently navigate your Tesla to you through complex environments, like parking lots. Smart Summon would be ideal when you’re done shopping on a rainy day and want your Tesla to pick you up. However, I couldn’t get Smart Summon to work during my testing. My Tesla couldn’t figure out how to find me, even in a completely empty parking lot.

What about Full Self-Driving?

Full Self-Driving, or FSD, is Tesla’s promised ability that its cars can someday navigate independently without human interaction. Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk has previously championed that FSD could be an appreciating asset eventually, believing that Teslas could navigate on their own as self-driving taxis, earning revenue for their owners when not in use. The challenge is that FSD still seems very far away from Elon Musk’s vision.

After all, the company is being sued for potentially misleading claims over it.

However, if even the idea of full self-driving peaks your interest, it’ll cost you $19,500. For that $19,500, you receive beta access to a feature called ‘Traffic and Stop Sign Control,’ which identifies stop signs and traffic lights and can automatically slow your Tesla to a stop. Coming sometime in the unspecified future is ‘Autosteer on city streets,’ enabling a Tesla to navigate on its own through urban environments.

It’s important to note that when using FSD or any of these aforementioned features, the driver must still pay full attention to the road to intervene if needed. I’ll be honest; personally, I haven’t tried full self-driving, and I included it here for fairness. While FSD may be improved in future updates , I don’t currently have $20,000 lying around to wait and find out.

Final Thoughts

Full disclosure, I returned Autopilot and Enhanced Autopilot and got my $11,800 refunded back to me. A few weeks later, I repurchased Autopilot for $4,000 as it provided the best value to me at this time. With that said, there isn’t a day that goes by where I’m not tempted to repurchase Enhanced Autopilot. All three software upgrades are refundable one-time within 48 hours of purchase, so I knew that once I bought Autopilot the second time, it was for keeps.

Personally, I think Autopilot, Enhanced Autopilot, and Full Self-Driving are overpriced. I’m not a car guy. I just like my Tesla and have an interest in electric vehicles. I wish there was a subscription service like in the United States or a free trial where people could gauge if the purchase is right for them. Tesla is asking people to spend a lot of money on some iffy software features at best.

Ultimately, deciding which software package, if any, is right for you depends on your lifestyle, disposable income, and willingness to deal with sometimes less-than-perfect software. Just remember, always keep your eyes on the road.

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Tesla Autopilot Vs FSD (Full Self Driving) System: What Are The Main Differences?

Tesla autopilot vs full self driving (FSD)

So far, electric vehicle maker Tesla has rolled out so many updates that sometimes people get confused between Tesla Autopilot and FSD (full self-driving system).

Both Autopilot and FSD are driving assistance packages; however, there’s a slight difference in the features they offer. These technologies are designed to make Tesla cars autonomous and become more capable over time. Hence, new features keep on adding and improving.

Therefore, to keep you updated, we have explained and outlined the major differences between the two in brief.

Tesla Autopilot Features

Tesla Autopilot is a driver assistance suite that improves overall safety and comfort behind the wheels. The system uses components like multiple cameras, ultrasonic sensors, radar, computer, etc., to function properly.

Due to these components, Tesla Autopilot adds an extra layer of safety and makes driving less stressful. However, it’s mandatory to keep your hands on wheels while using Autopilot, otherwise, it’ll disengage.

Autopilot package mainly performs two functions: Traffic-Aware Cruise Control and Autosteer.

Tesla Autopilot system comes standard across all vehicles of the automaker, and the owners don’t have to pay extra price for it.

Tesla Full Self Driving (FSD) System

If you notice, the Tesla website advertises many features under the Tesla Autopilot system. However, users only get Traffic-Aware Cruise Control and Autosteer while the rest of the features are bundled to the FSD package.

In addition to the aforementioned capabilities, Tesla FSD includes:

Navigate On Autopilot
Auto Lane Change
Smart Summon
Full Self-Driving (FSD) Computer
Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control (Beta)
Autosteer on city streets (Upcoming)

While most of these features are available in the FSD package, the ‘Traffic Light and Stop Control’ is in the Beta stage, and Autosteer on city streets will come later this year.

Tesla has given access to a limited number of owners under beta testing of the ‘Traffic Light and Stop Control’ feature.

Anyway, to enjoy these benefits, you have to pay an extra $10,000 for the FSD package. You can purchase it while buying your car or even after the delivery.

Existing users can also upgrade their Autopilot suite to an FSD by purchasing it online.

Although it’s a full self-driving package, Tesla says the current set of features does not make the vehicle autonomous. Also, similar to Autopilot, drivers always have to keep their hands on the steering wheel and should always stay attentive to take on the control.

Tesla Autopilot Vs FSD (Full-Self Driving): Key Differences

Although we have outlined all the main differences between both the packages, here’s a small table to simplify the data.

We have tried to put the major data in this small table. We hope it would be sufficient to understand the basic difference between Tesla Autopilot and FSD.

Shaheer Anwar is an automotive enthusiast and writes about the latest trends happening in the industry. He covers topics related to electric and hybrid vehicles.

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I drove the next-gen R1S/R1T and Rivian is getting better at making electric vehicles

I drove the next-generation R1S and R1T electric vehicles from Rivian, and my main takeaway is that the company is getting better at making electric vehicles.

Not that it wasn’t good before, but it clearly needs to keep getting better to get to profitability.

Last week, Rivian invited me to Seattle to check out the next-generation of its R1 vehicles : R1T and R1S.

I already shared all the main changes, which are primarily aimed at reducing Rivian’s manufacturing costs, but here I am going to share my first driving impressions.

Electrek’s Seth Weintraub was supposed to go to the drive, and he would have been a better reviewer, considering he owns a first-gen Rivian R1S and has much more experience than I do behind a Rivian wheel to highlight the differences in this new generation.

However, some scheduling conflicts mean you are stuck with me, who has little to no experience with Rivian vehicles. I’ll do my best.

Again, the main goal of this update was clearly cost reduction. Rivian needs to roughly half its production costs in order to turn its gross margin positive and achieve profitability to support its expanding infrastructure, like service centers, charging stations, and more.

As I wrote in my previous post, the concern was that as Rivian cuts costs, it would damage its premium customer experience by making its vehicles “cheaper,” so to speak. I have been reassured on that front.

Most of the changes have to do with improving the manufacturability of Rivian’s vehicles, which will have no direct impact on the driver experience. However, in order to achieve higher manufacturability, Rivian did things like bring more motor engineering and manufacturing in-house.

That has allowed the company to get more out of its many motor and battery combinations – resulting in impressive improvements in specs:

I love all these options. There’s something for everyone… who can afford a $80,000+ vehicle.

You have the same options on the R1S, the SUV version, but it is a bit slower than its pickup counterpart, and has a third-row.

During my day of driving the next-gen R1s, I got to spend a little bit of time in the R1T Quad Max to do a few launches on a drag strip:

The Rivian R1T second-gen accelerates to 60 mph in 2.5 seconds with the quad motor config. Here I did a 2.7-second run: pic.twitter.com/7EYMd4kOpJ — Fred Lambert (@FredericLambert) June 6, 2024

I’m not sure why you’d want to bring your pickup truck to the drag strip, but it’s nice to have that power when you can use it.

I couldn’t get the 2.5-second advertised 0 to 60 mph time, but I came close at 2.7-second, and I saw some other media people get it while on the drag strip.

Rivian also brought us to DirtFish to do a bit of rally, in a 6,000-lbs vehicle, yes, and some off-roading.

I was particularly impressed by the ability to control many different levels of traction controls and regenerative braking in rally and off-road modes.

I got some off-roading done too: pic.twitter.com/I39nozPkaF — Fred Lambert (@FredericLambert) June 6, 2024

Now, that’s all fun and games, and the R1s are both very capable off-road, but let’s be honest, most people are going to use these vehicles on road, and for good reasons.

Both the R1S and R1T have a great balance of premium luxury experience and utilitarian capabilities.

First off, the interior is absolutely splendid. I love the aesthetics. It’s like a nice compromise between Tesla’s ultra-minimalist software-based approach and the crowded luxury of some of the legacy luxury automakers.

I am a big fan of the new Plaid package in this particular version and the seats are super comfortable both in front and back.

There are a few software features that I’m jealous not to have in my Tesla, like Chromecast from your phone. That’s pretty cool.

On the road, the R1S was a smooth drive. I never drove the previous generation, but I know it was using the same suspension as the R1T tuned differently and that means some compromises. With the second generation, Rivian decided to go with some hardware changes between the R1S and R1T’s suspensions.

I was driving with Quinn from Snazzy Labs , who owns a R1S, and therefore, he was able to note a significant improvement.

Even with this improvement that I can’t quantify, I have to say that I preferred driving the R1T. You don’t feel the weight of either vehicle, thanks to the extremely responsive electric drivetrain, but I liked the slightly more dynamic driving of the pickup.

As a Tesla driver on the highway, I got so used to ADAS that I quickly missed it for any decent-distance travel.

I was happy to see that Rivian has updated its autonomy system with the next-generation R1 platform. The autonomy hardware suite now includes 11 cameras all around the vehicles with 8 times the number of megapixels. There are also 5 radars and ultrasonics all around:

Rivian has done a big upgrade to its autonomy hardware suite in the next-gen R1 platform. 11 cameras with 8x more megapixels, five radars, ultrasonics all around the vehicle, and a new compute platform to handle all the data coming from these sensors. pic.twitter.com/pzi94Hg9dk — Fred Lambert (@FredericLambert) June 6, 2024

You need a powerful onboard computer to handle all the data coming from all these sensors, and Rivian is partnering with Nvidia on that front. The automaker is now using a much more powerful autonomy computer:

With this suite, Rivian is aiming for level 3 autonomous driving, but the automaker is not sharing a timeline for that goal.

In the meantime, the company plans to release more and better ADAS features through over-the-air software updates.

I got to try the lane change feature on the highway in a R1S and it worked very well:

However, Rivian still has plenty of room to improve when it comes to lane centering, especially at higher speeds and in curves.

With this new next-generation, for the higher-end versions, Rivian is offering a new “Dynamic Glass Roof” that can change color and opacity at the touch of a button:

But the utilitarian aspects of these vehicles is really where Rivian shines. Obviously, you have the 7-seater third row in the R1S with still plenty of storage space thanks to the giant frunk:

Speaking of the frunk, you also have it on the R1T. Frunks are really great for electric pickup trucks since your trunk is replaced by a bed, which you tend not to keep as clean as the rest of the truck.

That means that you run low in clean cargo space, and that’s what a frunk provides. The R1T’s frunk is great for that, but Rivian goes a step further with its gear tunnel:

The gear tunnel is exactly what it sounds like, a tunnel for gear that runs behind the cabin and in front of the rear wheel.

Between that, the frunk, and the bed, I think it makes the R1T the most utilitarian pickup of its size, electric or not.

Electrek’s Take

Rivian is getting better at making electric vehicles without compromising on its owner experience.

Whether it will be enough to get to a positive gross margin, I don’t know. CEO RJ Scaringe warned that Q2 won’t be representative of the changes since the switch to the next-gen happened in the middle of the quarter, but we should have a much better picture of the situation in Q3.

Top comment by TheCyberKnight

Impressive.

Positively the most talented and serious newcomer in the EV world (excluding well-established car makers).

They deserve to find their way toward profitability.

Based on all the changes, I’m sure that it will result in significant improvements in gross margins, but I don’t know if it will be enough to erase completely the $36,000 in losses for every vehicle delivered. We will see.

In the meantime, this next-generation should also help Rivian continue selling its R1 vehicles with enough updates and upgrades to continue making them a unique offering in the premium SUV and pickup segment.

Now with Supercharger access and improving ADAS system, it is increasingly becoming an interesting option.

I’m seriously considering a R1T for my first electric pickup truck. My Cybertruck review is coming soon, and I’ll do a comparison.

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Model S Owner's Manual

About autopilot.

Basic Autopilot includes Traffic-Aware Cruise Control and Autosteer.

Traffic-Aware Cruise Control : Maintains your speed and an adjustable following distance from the vehicle in front of you, if there is one (see Traffic-Aware Cruise Control ).
Autosteer : Maintains your speed and distance from a leading vehicle while also intelligently keeping Model S in its lane (see Autosteer ).

Enhanced Autopilot includes additional features. Enhanced Autopilot Features are designed to further reduce driver workload and make common actions, such as changing lanes or parking, easier.

Auto Lane Change : Moves Model S into an adjacent lane when you engage the turn signal and Autosteer is active (see Auto Lane Change ).
Navigate on Autopilot : Actively guides Model S from a highway’s on-ramp to off-ramp, including performing lane changes, navigating interchanges, automatically engaging the turn signal, and taking the correct exit (see Navigate on Autopilot ).
Autopark : Parks Model S , either parallel or perpendicularly (see Autopark ).
Summon: Moves Model S forward or backward, even while you’re outside the vehicle. This is useful for parking in tight parking spots (see Summon ).
Smart Summon: Moves Model S out of a parking space and through more complex environments, maneuvering around obstacles and other vehicles, to meet you or go to a predetermined target (see Smart Summon ).
Traffic Light & Stop Sign Control : Maintains your speed, keeps a following distance, and keeps Model S in its lane while also slowing down and stopping for traffic lights and stop signs (see Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control ).
Autosteer on City Streets ( Full Self-Driving (Supervised) ) : Attempts to drive to your destination by following curves in the road; stopping at and negotiating intersections, stop signs, and roundabouts; making left and right turns; and entering/exiting highways (see Full Self-Driving (Supervised) ).

Autopilot uses the cameras on Model S , which monitor the surrounding area and detect other vehicles, pedestrians, road markings, and obstacles such as barriers and curbs. There are cameras mounted on the front, rear, left, and right sides of Model S (see Cameras ).

Model S may also be equipped with a cabin camera, mounted in the rear-view mirror, that monitors driver attentiveness. It is your responsibility to keep your hands on the wheel, pay attention to the road, and be ready to take immediate action at any time.

When Autopilot is engaged, Model S shows a series of escalating warnings reminding you to keep your hands on the wheel and pay attention to the road. If there is no response, Autopilot disengages and is unavailable for the remainder of the drive.

It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with the limitations of Autopilot and be ready to take control at all times. For more limitations, cautions, and warnings, see Limitations and Warnings .

Autopilot Conditions

Ensure all cameras are clean and free of obstructions before each drive and before using Autopilot features (see Cleaning a Camera ). Dirty cameras and sensors (if equipped), as well as environmental conditions such as rain and faded lane markings, can affect Autopilot performance. If a camera is obstructed or blinded, Model S displays a message on the instrument cluster and Autopilot features may not be available. For more information on specific alerts, see Troubleshooting Alerts .

Before you can use Autopilot features, and after some Service visits, you must drive a short distance to calibrate cameras. For more information, see Drive to Calibrate Cameras .

In addition, these features may not work as intended when:

The road has sharp curves or significant changes in elevation.
Road signs and signals are unclear, ambiguous, or poorly maintained.
Visibility is poor (due to heavy rain, snow, hail, etc. or poorly lit roadways at night)
You are driving in a tunnel or next to a highway divider that interferes with the view of the camera(s)
Bright light (such as from oncoming headlights or direct sunlight) interferes with the view of the camera(s).

The list above does not represent an exhaustive list of situations that may interfere with proper operation of Autopilot features. For more information, see Limitations and Warnings .

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COMMENTS

Autopilot and Full Self-Driving Capability
To engage Traffic-Aware Cruise Control in Model S and Model X, pull down once on the cruise control stalk on the left of the steering column. In Model 3 and Model Y, pull down once on the gear selector stalk on the right of the steering column. ... On Model S and Model X built between 2012-2021, Navigate on Autopilot can be engaged on most ...
Tesla Autopilot vs. full self-driving: What's the difference?
Autopilot is designed to be used with full driver supervision, and is essentially an advanced version of cruise control. It has lane-centering and adaptive cruise control, meaning the car can both ...
Tesla Cruise Control vs. Autopilot (Detailed Comparison)
The difference may include: Cruise control will provide you with a specified speed while Autopilot will give you more advanced features. As compared to Tesla Autopilot, cruise control will not be able to change the speed. Steering and Lane keeping features are not present in cruise control.
Cruise Control vs Auto Pilot
Jimt29 said: I know of two. Right Stalk: One press = cruise control. Two presses = auto pilot. If you care to make it more complicated than that, I defer to your wisdom. What you are calling "Autopilot" is Autosteer. Autopilot is a collection of features, mainly traffic-aware cruise control and autosteer.
Tesla Autopilot vs Enhanced Autopilot
Autopilot - This is basic driver assistance as found in most other cars with autopilot today. It's included with all vehicles. Traffic Aware Cruise Control. (TACC). This stop-and-go distance cruise control will follow other cars, stop in traffic and automatically resume. Automatic Steering / Lane Centering. This keeps the vehicle in the ...
Tesla Autopilot vs Full Self-Driving (FSD)
Autopilot - Included with all vehicles. This is basic driver assistance as found in most other cars with autopilot today. Traffic Aware Cruise Control. Automatic Steering / Lane Centering. Full Self-Driving - Available at the time of purchase for $8,000 or $99/mo. which includes everything above plus… Navigate-on-Autopilot; Auto Lane ...
Tesla Auto Pilot v Auto Steer v Cruise Control Explained
What is the difference between Auto Pilot, Auto Steer and Cruise Control? We explain that in this video...--- Buying a Tesla? Get $1000 Off & Free Super Cha...
Understanding Tesla's different Autopilot software packages
Tesla Autopilot Features Traffic Aware Cruise Control uses the Tesla's radar to lock-on to the vehicle in front of it and match its speed. Unlike many other automaker's adaptive cruise control systems, Traffic Aware Cruise Control will bring Tesla all the way down to a stop and back up to speed again with no driver input required.
Tesla Enhanced Autopilot vs Full Self Driving: which one should you buy?
The crucial difference between the two Autopilot tiers is the price. Enhanced Autopilot will set you back $6,000, while Full Self Driving costs $15,000 — two and a half times as much. Full Self ...
Autopilot: A Complete Guide
The autopilot is an important component of an aircraft. It reduces the mental and physical fatigue of flying an aircraft during less eventful flight phases, such as the cruise, and keeps the pilot sharp for more testing flight regimes, such as the approach and the landing. With the autopilot active, the pilot can focus on other important flying ...
Tesla Enhanced Autopilot Vs. Full Self-Driving: Differences Explained
A key difference between Tesla Enhanced Autopilot and Full Self-Driving is the pricing. While the former costs $6,000, drivers are expected to pay $12,000 to access the latter. Another difference is that while Tesla's Autopilot packages require human effort, the Full Self-Driving mode doesn't require the same amount of driver supervision that ...
Tesla Enhanced Autopilot: The Ultimate Driving Experience Compared to
What is the difference between Tesla's basic and enhanced autopilot features? Tesla's basic autopilot feature includes traffic-aware cruise control and Autosteer, which helps keep the car centered in its lane. Enhanced Autopilot includes additional features such as Navigate on Autopilot, Summon, and Auto Lane Change.
"Cruise Control" vs Autopilot vs Enhanced Autopilot
Aug 13, 2023. #2. You're correct, when you indicate to change lanes under basic autopilot, as you turn the wheel to change lanes auto steer will be deactivated. TACC remains on. When you are happy in whatever lane you want to be in, you can double-tap the right stalk again to re-engage auto steer.
Tesla Autopilot vs. GM Super Cruise: Comparing driver assist features
The biggest difference: Autopilot requires hands on the wheel, but Super Cruise is hands-free driving. By Sasha Lekach on March 20, 2021. So what's the difference? Credit: screengrabs: tesla, GM ...
How GM Ultra Cruise Differs From Tesla's Autopilot
General Motors. Another significant difference between GM's Ultra Cruise and Tesla FSD is the sensor setup that guides each system. Tesla relies on cameras only to view and absorb data about the world around the vehicle, while Ultra Cruise uses short- and long-range radars in addition to cameras. GM also incorporates LiDAR behind the ...
Which is right for you: Tesla's Autopilot or Enhanced Autopilot?
Autopilot is Tesla's standard driver assistant software package. Autopilot includes two features: 'Traffic-Aware Cruise Control' and 'Autosteer.'. Both of these features are relatively common in modern cars. Once engaged, autosteer keeps your Tesla in a clearly marked lane and can only be activated once cruise control is used while ...
Autopilot and Full Self-Driving Capability
Autopilot. Traffic-Aware Cruise Control: Matches the speed of your vehicle to that of the surrounding traffic; Autosteer: Assists in steering within a clearly marked lane, and uses traffic-aware cruise control; Enhanced Autopilot. Auto Lane Change: Assists in moving to an adjacent lane on the motorway when indicator is engaged by driver;
Autopilot versus Adaptive Cruise?
Jul 23, 2015. 4,886. 3,412. Adelaide, Australia. Mar 29, 2019. #3. As Tasdoc said, you wont get any form of cruise control without Autopilot, adaptive or "old fashioned". Autopilot is in every new tesla, and you can have it enabled for the same price plus tax after delivery.
Autopilot Vs Super Cruise Vs BlueCruise: How Do They Compare?
In addition to the $600 option (that Ford lists as software-specific), BlueCruise requires the Co-Pilot 360 Active 2.0 package on the F-150, which is $1,595 all total (including the $600 software ...
Tesla Autopilot Vs FSD (Full Self Driving): Know Key Differences?
Tesla Autopilot is a driver assistance suite that improves overall safety and comfort behind the wheels. The system uses components like multiple cameras, ultrasonic sensors, radar, computer, etc ...
I drove the next-gen R1S/R1T and Rivian is getting better at making
Between that, the frunk, and the bed, I think it makes the R1T the most utilitarian pickup of its size, electric or not. Electrek's Take Rivian is getting better at making electric vehicles ...
About Autopilot
Basic Autopilot includes Traffic-Aware Cruise Control and Autosteer. Traffic-Aware Cruise Control: Maintains your speed and an adjustable following distance from the vehicle in front of you, if there is one (see Traffic-Aware Cruise Control).; Autosteer: Maintains your speed and distance from a leading vehicle while also intelligently keeping Model S in its lane (see Autosteer).

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