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January 11, 2016updated 31 Aug 2016 10:33am

Tesla limits autopilot option with software update

News: Model S and X will be able to park itself, and shut down.

By Nitin Kumar

Tesla has updated its Autopilot driving systems to improve its self-driving technology and to put a limit to hands-free operation in residential areas.

The company mentioned that the feature will be now restricted on residential roads or roads without a central divider.

During the release of the software in October, Tesla said that the autopilot feature is designed to relieve drivers of the most tedious and potentially dangerous aspects of road travel.

However, it claimed that ultimately the driver will be responsible for, and ultimately in control of, the car.

With the latest update, Tesla Version 7.1 software will reduce its speed in near curves on the highway, a feature that was not present in the earlier version.

However, Reuters cited Tesla CEO Elon Musk as saying that the company is not aware of any accidents caused by the issue.

Though the company previously warned users about the feature being in Beta, several videos posted by Tesla drivers on YouTube showed near-misses on the road using Autopilot.

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It’s these videos and reckless behavior that prompted Musk to take action to curb the function to minimise the possibility of an accident.

The update also includes the first iteration of Summon, which will allow the drivers to exit from the Model S or Model X and let the car enter the garage, park itself, and shut down.

The Summon feature will also eliminate the burden of having to squeeze in and out of tight parking spots.

Tesla said: "The release of Tesla Version 7.1 software is the next step toward developing fully autonomous driving capabilities and delivering them through over-the-air software updates, keeping our customers at the forefront of driving technology in the years ahead."

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