Tesla Motors Unveils Model S With Autopilot
Tesla Motors on Thursday unveiled features that will allow its electric Model S sedan to park itself and sense dangerous situations. Model S comes standard with a forward looking camera, radar, and 360-degree ultrasonic sensors that actively monitor the surrounding roadway. Progressive software updates over time will enable convenience and safety features that use these sensors to respond to real world conditions. For instance, image recognition will allow the vehicle can "see" things like stop signs and pedestrians. Tesla says these features will ultimately give Model S Autopilot capability on the highway from on-ramp to off-ramp. The car can also park itself in a garage, turn on the air conditioning in advance of a trip and recognize obstacles on the road.
The company 's new all-wheel drive Model S sedan can go from zero to 60 miles per hour in 3.2 seconds yet doesn't compromise the vehicle's efficiency.
It can also be equipped with Dual Chargers. Buyers can choose to add a second onboard charger for up to twice the standard rate of charge, up to 58 miles of range per hour of charge, when combined with an 80 amp Wall Connector.
Automakers are trying to add such "autopilot" features to their models. Meanwhile, Google is developing the technology for a completely driverless car.
General Motors said last month that its Cadillac brand will introduce a car in 2016 that communicates with other vehicles and will also introduce a vehicle that incorporates semi-automated hands-free driving technology.
Audi also presented a driverless racing car and plans to send it to the Hockenheim race track during the upcoming DTM touring car race.
The Audi RS7 Sportback Piloted Driving concept vehicle will complete the Hockenheim loop at racing speed of some 240 kph (150 mph), with not driver on board, Audi said. The vehicle is equipped to drive at the physical limit with respect to speed and exactness. 3D cameras and a differential GPS system will complement the standard sensors, enabling the automated vehicle to reach approximately the same speed as a human professional race driver.