Reader Response : "Autopilot and Full Self-Driving Capabilities" by Tesla Draft #3

 The article "The six levels of vehicle autonomy" by Synopsys (n.d.), emphasizes the critical importance of implementing advanced autonomous systems in vehicles to ensure safe and efficient transportation.

 

The “Full Self-Driving Capability” (FSD) is an advanced autopilot driver-assistance incorporated with partial vehicle automation software that helps with road navigation and driverless parking (Tesla, n.d.). Scullion (2023) mentioned Tesla’s autopilot driving technology requires attention and supervision as FSD features do not make the vehicle fully autonomous. Tesla integrates Level 0 to 5 driving automation. Synopsys (n.d.) elaborates that all level 0 vehicles are manually controlled with the driver navigating through the road. Systems such as emergency braking do not qualify as automation. Level 1 features one automated system, specifically adaptive cruise control which assists in steering or accelerating while monitoring the safety distance of the car ahead. Level 2 semi driving automation controls both steering and acceleration/deceleration while the driver pays close attention to the road. Synopsys (n.d.) further elaborated that Level 3 consists of “environmental detection” functionalities with the ability to make decisions of acceleration/deceleration past a vehicle. Level 4 is considered high driving technology which can override the driver in the event of car system failure. Lastly, level 5 allows the car to drive independently through any “dynamic driving task” with minimal human attention. It is fully autonomous with “steering or acceleration/braking pedals” functionalities. Redding (2023) mentioned the subsequent upgrades introduced an "eight-camera array" and "enhanced computing power" for broader visibility and faster processing, aiming to extend "sensor coverage" and vehicle autonomy.

 

With insights into FSD capabilities, the automotive industry is working towards advanced autonomous systems fostering a safe and efficient self-driving ecosystem. However, the increase in accident rate associated with ultrasonic sensor capability raises critical concerns about the efficacy and safety of the systems necessitating scrutiny.

Even though FSD capabilities have been enhanced, engineers are looking at improving the system's performance against hazards and accidents. Cavanaugh & Thickens (2023) mentioned Top of Formrear-end collisions often happen when a manually driven car cannot halt promptly, colliding with the rear of an autonomous car, or when a driver doesn't quickly assume control to avert the crash. Sideswipe incidents usually take place when a human driver strikes the side of a self-driving vehicle. Lastly, pedestrian incidents with autonomous vehicles frequently occur when the control is not seamlessly transferred from the vehicle to the driver, endangering walkers, or cyclists.

Another reason would also be the auto lane change system, activated by the driver's signal, relies on ultrasonic sensors with a 16-foot range but initially couldn't detect pedestrians or cyclists. Although it recognizes motorcycles, there have been instances of the system's older versions rear-ending motorcycles (Abbasi el at, 2019).

As Tesla continues to innovate, the Autopilot system is expected to evolve further, incorporating more autonomous features that promise to reduce the incidence of accidents further and improve the overall driving experience. This technological advancement not only showcases Tesla's pioneering approach to automobile safety but also sets a new standard for the industry, pushing towards a future where fully autonomous vehicles could become a common sight on our roads.

 

 

Reference: 

 

Tesla (n.d.). Autopilot and Full Self-Driving Capability

https://www.tesla.com/support/autopilot


Murray Scullion (2023). Explained and Tested: Tesla’s self-driving Autopilot

https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/autonomous/tesla-self-driving/

 

Synopsys (n.d.). The 6 levels of vehicle autonomy Explained.

https://www.synopsys.com/automotive/autonomous-driving-levels.html

 

Tesla model and software features: CarShtuff.

https://www.carshtuff.com/post/which-tesla-autopilot

 

Abbasi, S.; Rahmani, A.M. Artificial Intelligence and Software Modeling Approaches in Autonomous Vehicles for Safety Management: A Systematic Review. Information 2023, 14, 555. https://doi.org/10.3390/info14100555

 

Cavanaugh & Thickens, LLC. Autonomous and Self-Driving Car Accidents, 12 September 2023

http://surl.li/qpkjx

https://www.ctlawsc.com/autonomous-and-self-driving-car-

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