Can Tesla's new 'autopilot' system work in crowded Hong Kong? We take it for a test drive

Summary

In this video, the user tests the Tesla Model S with version 7.0, highlighting key features such as the TAC (Traffic Adaptive Cruise) system and Auto Park functionality. The video showcases the ease of adjusting speed, the automatic steering adjustments made by the vehicle, and the user's experience with the autopilot system. The user also tests the lane-changing feature, noting the comfort and safety felt during the test, especially when the traffic was clear. Overall, the experience of using Tesla's advanced autopilot and parking features is both exciting and impressive.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Tesla Model S is being tested with version 7.0 software.
• 😀 The user activates the 'TAC' (likely referring to the cruise control) and adjusts the speed to 30 mph, which can be increased to 40 mph.
• 😀 The car is in 'Auto Steering' mode, where the wheel turns automatically, but the user must keep their hands near it.
• 😀 The user demonstrates the Auto Parking functionality for the first time, reversing the car and starting the auto-park function without manually steering.
• 😀 Auto Park completes successfully, and the user is impressed with the smooth experience.
• 😀 The car’s autopilot system detects surroundings and manages auto steering while driving.
• 😀 The user experiences lane-changing functionality in autopilot mode, which works automatically once the lane is clear.
• 😀 The lane change feels comfortable as the traffic is clear and the cars are not moving too fast.
• 😀 The user is required to keep their hands near the wheel during autopilot operation, ensuring readiness to take control if necessary.
• 😀 The overall experience of using Tesla's autopilot, including steering and lane changes, is smooth, with the user feeling confident in the system's capabilities.

Q & A

What feature is being tested in this script?

The script is testing the Tesla Model S version 7.0, specifically its autopilot features, including TAC (Traffic-Aware Cruise Control), auto steering, auto parking, and lane changing.

What does the TAC system do in the Tesla Model S?

TAC (Traffic-Aware Cruise Control) helps maintain a set speed and distance from the car in front, automatically adjusting the car's speed in traffic conditions. The user can adjust the speed using controls.

What is the user's experience with auto steering in the Tesla Model S?

The user mentions that the auto steering system works effectively, as they can feel the wheel turning by itself while still needing to keep their hands on the wheel for safety.

How does the Tesla Model S handle auto parking?

The auto parking feature allows the car to park itself once the user switches to reverse and presses the start button. The user only needs to keep their hands near the wheel during the process.

What was the user's reaction to the auto parking feature?

The user was impressed and felt amazed, especially since it was their first time using the auto parking functionality.

How does the Tesla Model S perform lane changing with autopilot?

The car detects when it's safe to change lanes, and after the user feels the wheel, it automatically performs the lane change once the path is clear.

What factors influence the Tesla's lane changing decision?

The car waits for a clear path before initiating a lane change, ensuring it is safe to do so. The user's comfort level with the traffic conditions also plays a role in the process.

Did the user feel comfortable during the test of the Tesla's autopilot features?

Yes, the user felt comfortable during the lane change test, especially because the traffic was light and the cars were not moving too fast.

Is the Tesla Model S's autopilot fully autonomous?

No, the autopilot system in the Tesla Model S requires the driver to keep their hands on the wheel at all times, meaning it is not fully autonomous.

What does the user mean by 'hands on the wheel' during the autopilot features?

The user refers to the requirement that they must keep their hands near or on the wheel while the autopilot features, like auto steering or lane changing, are active. This ensures they are ready to take control if necessary.