Tesla improved autopilot, enabled him but only at an additional cost

Palo Alto (United States), 20 October 2016

At the latest since the fatal crash of a model S in the United States, Tesla's "Autopilot" is on everyone's lips. The messages to significantly hurt the California company's clean image. Now, Tesla will bring an improved version of the autonomous driving feature.

Improved hardware for all Tesla's on board

Tesla on the company's website announced on October 19 that all vehicles produced from now get the necessary hardware for an improved autopilot. Instead of a camera, eight cameras monitor the environment of the vehicle with up to a distance of 250 metres. There are also twelve Ultrasonic sensors, which now have a larger range, as well as a front radar, which data apparently used to complement the camera images and to secure. The radar can detect obstacles even in heavy rain, fog and dust, it says on the website. A new unit processes the multitude of signals with more power.

Activation only happ-surcharge

Model S and model X are already equipped with the improved autopilot, and every customer could one order today of it, so Tesla full bodied. What the manufacturer is not mentioned: the system is not readily available, even if the hardware is built into all models. Apparently, the system only extra charge is activated in two steps, as is clear from the information on the German Tesla website. There appears "enhanced autopilot" (with four instead of a camera) when the model X as an option for 5,500 euros. Who only arming the improved autopilot after delivery can pay more 6,600 euros.

Full activation for 8,800 Euro

Fully autonomous ('full self-driving capability', with eight instead of four cameras) drives the car only for another 3,300 euros (or 4,400 euros after shipment). To add the cost to 8,800 euros. The model S, the same options at the same prices, but only with activation appear on the German site after delivery. In other words: Tesla improves security, but only at an additional cost. Whether one probably believes that her own order form with the missing check mark at "Enhances Autopilot" and "Full Self-Driving Capability" under the nose in future injured drivers? (sl)

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