Tesla Unveils Enhanced Navigation Features and Route Options for Chinese New Year Celebration

Tesla has rolled out a new software update in China, introducing a range of innovative features with a primary focus on enhancing navigation capabilities.

While this update is part of the 2024 build, speculation suggests that it could be the final update before the anticipated release of 2025.2.

Let’s delve into the details of the latest update and its exciting new additions.

Enhanced Navigation Features

One of the standout features of this update is the ability for users to select their preferred route options. With “online routing” enabled, the vehicle’s navigation is determined remotely, allowing for a more comprehensive route selection process. Additionally, users now have the option to choose between different route preferences:

• Fastest Time – The default option that prioritizes the quickest route.
• Least Congestion – Selects routes with minimal traffic congestion for a smoother and safer drive.
• Prefer Highways – Prioritizes highway routes for faster travel.
• Lowest Tolls – Finds routes that are both fast and have the lowest toll costs.

While the highly anticipated “avoid highways” feature is still missing, these new options provide users with greater control over their navigation preferences. Although currently exclusive to China, these features are expected to expand to other regions in the future.

Service Area Enhancements

In addition to navigation improvements, approaching a highway service area in China will now trigger an on-screen prompt that guides users to nearby restaurants, convenience stores, and charging facilities. This feature aims to enhance the overall driving experience and streamline pit stops.

While this feature is currently limited to China, there is potential for its expansion to other regions in the future.

Other Exciting Additions

As part of the Chinese New Year celebration update, Tesla has introduced a range of exclusive games and apps tailored for the Chinese market. These include games like Happy Landlord, Happy Mahjong, and Throw Eggs, developed by Tencent.

Furthermore, the update includes the addition of Actually Smart Summon for vehicles equipped with Enhanced Autopilot or Full Self-Driving capabilities. Additionally, a new feature called Supercharger Bollards allows users to unlock bollards at certain Supercharger locations directly from their vehicles.

While these features are currently exclusive to China, there is optimism for their eventual integration into other markets.