Tesla warns drivers about using its updated Full Self-Driving mode

Palo Alto, California – Tesla has come under fire in recent months for its Autopilot feature that has allegedly led to numerous accidents and deaths. But its latest roll-out of Full Self-Driving mode comes with a warning that many may have missed.

Tesla's latest update for full self-driving mode comes with a warning, telling drivers to keep their hands on the wheel.
Tesla's latest update for full self-driving mode comes with a warning, telling drivers to keep their hands on the wheel.  © 123rf / svetlanaangelus

If you've been lured into believing that Teslas are fully capable of driving themselves with no human interference, you aren't alone.

Last week, Tesla rolled out an update to its Full Self-Driving mode (FSD), and did so with a stark warning for drivers.

Given that FSD – a premium feature that Tesla owners must pay for additionally – is still in beta, developers advised drivers to keep their hands on the wheel, even if Autopilot or FSD mode is on.

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Why? Because glitches are real, and there's always a chance the software could go haywire at the worst possible time.

Tesla announced the FSD software update in a statement on its website, along with a direct and life-saving safety warning.

"Autopilot and Full Self-Driving Capability are intended for use with a fully attentive driver, who has their hands on the wheel and is prepared to take over at any moment. While these features are designed to become more capable over time, the currently enabled features do not make the vehicle autonomous," it said.

The latest FSD software update includes a number of driver-assistance features, such as auto lane change, auto parking, traffic and stop sign control, and navigation on Autopilot.

Tesla has caught flak for potentially misrepresenting the Autopilot feature, leading people to believe the vehicle can fully operate on its own without human assistance.

It's something the company is hoping to clarify with its recent warning.

Cover photo: 123rf / svetlanaangelus

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