FYI: Tesla releases its new Actually Smart Summon feature, successfully navigating a busy Costco parking lot amid real-world challenges.
Tesla Unveils Actually Smart Summon: A Game-Changer for Parking Lot Navigation
Tesla has just launched its latest feature, Actually Smart Summon (ASS), creating a buzz among EV enthusiasts and tech aficionados. This innovative function promises to make navigating bustling parking lots a breeze, and initial real-world tests seem to validate its potential.
Seamless Navigation in Everyday Scenarios
The first wave of videos showcasing ASS demonstrated the feature effortlessly maneuvering through an empty shopping center parking lot, tackling challenges like roundabouts with ease. However, Tesla enthusiasts didn’t stop there. They took it to a more challenging environment to rigorously test its capabilities—a busy Costco parking lot during peak hours.
Maneuvering Through the Hustle and Bustle
Parking lots at Costco are notorious for their tight spaces and chaotic atmosphere, filled with cars, shopping carts, and pedestrians. Despite these challenges, ASS navigated the environment adeptly.
Proceeding Cautiously and Effectively
One critical aspect of driving in busy parking lots is the delicate balance of utilizing right-of-way and courteous driving. In one instance, a Tesla executing ASS pulled aside to let an approaching vehicle pass before it continued on its route. This action underscores the system’s ability to alternate efficiently between stopping and proceeding, ensuring smooth and safe traffic flow.
Standing its Ground Against Aggressive Drivers
Challenge arises when other drivers do not reciprocate the give-and-take etiquette. During testing, the Tesla encountered a Honda SUV attempting to cut in despite the Tesla’s right-of-way. The EV cautiously initiated its move, prompting the Honda driver to back off and let the Tesla continue safely. Such scenarios highlight ASS’s capability to handle aggressive driving without compromising safety.
Safely Navigating Pedestrian Zones
The feature was also tested on its ability to handle pedestrians. The Tesla backed out of a parking spot while a vehicle waited. It then cautiously navigated around nearby pedestrians, exemplifying its ability to detect and react to human movement within tight spaces.
Impressions and Feedback
The initial tests of Actually Smart Summon in various real-world scenarios are promising, showing competent and safe navigation through congested and potentially chaotic environments. Tesla’s new feature shows significant strides in autonomous driving technology, setting a new bar for what EVs and smart features can achieve.
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By William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi
