Tesla recently unveiled its Full Self-Driving v14.1 software update, marking a significant milestone in the development of its autonomous driving capabilities. As an Early Access Program participant, I had the opportunity to test out the new features and improvements firsthand.
The release notes for FSD v14.1 highlighted several key enhancements, including the addition of Arrival Options for parking, improved handling of emergency vehicles, real-time routing adjustments for blocked roads, and customization options for driving styles. These updates aimed to enhance the overall driving experience and increase the reliability of the autonomous system.
One of the standout improvements I noticed was the more realistic Speed Profiles, which allowed the vehicle to reach and maintain speeds more in line with typical driving behavior. Previous versions had a tendency to drive below the speed limit, but with v14.1, the car now accelerates smoothly and maintains appropriate speeds, even in Hurry mode.
Another notable enhancement was the car’s ability to navigate parking lots and automatically park at destinations like Superchargers. The Arrival Options feature allowed the vehicle to select suitable parking spots based on the destination, resulting in smoother and more confident maneuvering in congested areas.
During my test drive, I encountered a situation where the car had to make a decision at a busy intersection. Despite some debate on the optimal course of action, the vehicle chose to back up and wait for the next light cycle, demonstrating a cautious and responsible approach to navigating complex scenarios.
While the new features were largely successful, there were a few bugs and navigation issues that I encountered. These included unexpected turn signals and route deviations, highlighting areas where further refinement is needed to improve the overall user experience.
Overall, I was impressed with the improvements in FSD v14.1 and the strides that Tesla has made in advancing its autonomous driving technology. Despite some minor issues, the update represents a significant step forward in making self-driving cars a reality. With continued development and refinement, Tesla’s Full Self-Driving capabilities are poised to revolutionize the way we drive in the future.