A driver tests Tesla's auto-pilot software, the Version 7.0. (Photo : www.cbc.ca)
High-end electric vehicle maker Tesla presented its new over-the-air software update for its Model S, the Version 7.0, which has several auto-pilot or autonomous driving features, to car owners in Beijing on Oct. 23, the National Business News reported.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk said that Version 7.0 software will be available for download to current Model S owners in Beijing on a 24-hour notice. He added that owners can automatically download the software to their cars through a WiFi or 3G connection.
The report said that the new software update includes changes to the user interface on the vehicle's 17-inch touch screen, and the addition of automatic steering, lane changing and parking.
Foreign media, however, reported that Version 7.0 does not live up to Musk's description, but despite that, some foreign car owners said on a Tesla Motors Club forum that they will test it out on the highway.
In addition to Tesla, other car brands including Mercedes-Benz, Audi, BMW and Volvo have also launched models that possess automatic steering and automatic parking functions.
The report added that for the Model S, the OTA software update has become its major selling feature because owners are no longer required to bring their cars to a dealer to have it installed.
Tesla said that its OTA updates, in combination with the deployment of fleet learning technology for auto-pilot, show the company's software expertise.
Since last year, four software updates have been released by Tesla in China, although it will still take time for the autonomous vehicle technology to develop into a mature industry.
"In three years we will have a car that can do full autonomous," Musk said at the press conference. "It will be able to take you from your driveway to work safely."
