Tesla Autopilot: ‘Smooth as silk’ update arrives in June

Company chief Elon Musk says ‘new control
algorithm’ will correct ‘uncomfortable’ system

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Chief executive Elon Musk tweeted the update will include
several tweaks, including a “new control algorithm”, which controls
the steering and throttle inputs when driverless features are
activated, that “feels as smooth as silk”. 

Excited about the Tesla Autopilot software release rolling out next
month. New control algorithm feels as smooth as silk. — Elon Musk
(@elonmusk) 22 May 2017  

It has been introduced to rectify an earlier software update
that “lifted the strict speed limits” in Autopilot mode, says
Electrek.

That update increased the speed limit on Tesla’s Autosteer and
Traffic Aware Cruise Control to 90mph, but customers reportedly
complained that the systems had become “rougher than what they were
used to”.

Musk told fans the old system was “safe, but unpleasant”, while
the new algorithm is “safer” and “super smooth”. 

Tesla owners can also expect an improved web browser and better
parking and rain sensors.

However, Musk revealed that the updated sensors will only be
available on second-generation Model S saloons as earlier versions
don’t carry the necessary hardware needed for the update.

@harropj
Hopefully June for those too

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) 22 May 2017

Autopilot is a £5,000 optional extra when buying the Model S
saloon and Model X SUV. It costs £6,000 to be added later.

Tesla will launch the software update in June, with Model S and X owners being notified
through the car’s 17.3ins touchscreen display.