How to Put Tesla in Self Drive

Tesla’s self-driving features are designed to enhance your driving experience by providing convenience and safety. Whether you’re looking to take a break on a long drive or simply enjoy the advanced technology, putting your Tesla in self-drive mode is a straightforward process. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to activate and use Tesla’s self-driving features effectively.

How to Put Tesla in Self Drive

Steps to enable Tesla Autopilot/FSD

1. Ensure that the vehicle meets the conditions: the vehicle must be equipped with Autopilot hardware and the software version needs to support FSD functionality. For FSD, the vehicle must also have AI 4 hardware installed.
2. Access the control menu: After starting the vehicle, click on the “Control” menu on the center screen.
3. Select Autopilot: In the control menu, select the “Autopilot” option.
4. Enable FSD Intelligent Driver Assistance: Click on “Enable FSD Intelligent Driver Assistance”, read and confirm the introduction of the Intelligent Assisted Steering function, and then click on “Yes” to enable the function.
5. Set navigation and start driving: After the vehicle has been set up for navigation and started driving, the owner can activate FSD Intelligent Driver Assistance by clicking the wheel button on the right side of the steering wheel.
6. Maintain Safe Driving: When using FSD, the driver should always monitor the status of the vehicle, be ready to take over at any time, and make sure the seat belt is fastened.
7. Regular Software Updates: Regularly check and update the software to ensure the system is working properly.

Hardware requirements for Tesla self-driving modes

1. Cameras: The vehicle is required to be equipped with multiple cameras, including 8 external cameras for 360-degree field of view coverage.
2. Radar and Ultrasonic Sensors: Equipped with 1 millimeter wave radar and 12 ultrasonic sensors for detecting the surrounding environment.
3. Computing platform: Equipped with high-performance computing chips, such as NVIDIA Drive PX 2 or self-developed FSD chips (e.g., HW 3.0, HW 4.0, etc.), to provide powerful AI arithmetic support.
4. Data transmission and storage: Equipped with high-speed data transmission interfaces and storage devices to process and store large amounts of sensor data.
5. Redundancy design: the system adopts a dual redundancy design to ensure that it can switch to a backup system in case of failure, improving safety.
6. In addition, Tesla's Autopilot hardware is constantly upgraded through OTA (Over-The-Air) technology to enhance functionality and performance.

Software version requirements for Tesla self-driving

Basic Autopilot: Available for all Tesla models, including Model S, Model 3, Model X, and Model Y. This version offers features such as auto-assisted steering, acceleration, and braking.

Enhanced Autopilot: Includes auto-assisted navigation driving, summoning function, auto-parking, auto-assisted lane changing and more. It requires an OTA (Over-The-Air) upgrade to a specific version to be available.

Fully Self-Driving Capability (FSD) : Currently only available in the U.S. for $15,000. This version includes features such as traffic light and stop sign recognition, automatic parking, automatic lane changing, and is gradually expanding to automated assisted driving in city streets (City NOA).The FSD Beta version needs to be upgraded to the latest version via OTA in order to be used.

FSD Beta Version: The latest version is V12.3.1, which is based on neural network control of the vehicle for autonomous driving functions in urban environments. This version requires vehicle hardware support and is subject to strict confidentiality terms and restrictions.

Software version compatibility: Tesla's in-vehicle operating system is based on a deeply modified Linux kernel and supports OTA upgrades to ensure that the system is continuously updated and optimized.

Safety guidelines when using Tesla self-driving

• Stay alert: Although autonomous driving systems can ease the burden of driving, drivers still need to be alert and ready to take over control of the vehicle at any time.
• Obey traffic rules: Strictly observe local road regulations and traffic signs to ensure that your actions do not pose a danger to other road users.
• Maintain an appropriate distance: When Adaptive Cruise Control is activated, keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you so that you can brake in time in case of emergency.
• Pay attention to blind spots: Use rearview mirrors and side view cameras when changing lanes, turning or parking to avoid safety hazards caused by blind spots.
• Avoid distractions: Do not be distracted while driving, such as using a cell phone, watching a video or engaging in other distracting activities.
• Regular software updates: Tesla releases regular software updates to optimize performance and safety, and owners should check and install the latest version in a timely manner.
• Adapt to weather conditions: Use Autopilot with caution in adverse weather conditions (e.g., rain, fog) and switch to manual mode if necessary.
• Keep Both Hands on the Steering Wheel: Even in Autopilot mode, drivers should always keep both hands on the steering wheel in case of emergency.
• Understand function limitations: Understand the range of functions of the Autopilot system to avoid over-reliance. For example, FSD systems do not perform well in conditions where the sun is too strong, the rain or snow is too heavy, or the fog is too foggy.
• Dealing with complex terrain: Complex terrain may interfere with sensor data and the driver needs to be ready to take over control.
• Avoid deep water areas: In rainy or stormy weather, avoid driving into deep water areas to avoid damaging the vehicle.
• Regular vehicle maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain your vehicle, including cleaning the sensor lenses, checking the condition of the tires and the health of the battery.
• Use seat belts: Both drivers and passengers should wear seat belts as an important means of protecting lives.
• Understand regional regulations: Before enabling the Advanced Assisted Driving Mode, understand the local laws and regulations to avoid trouble caused by violating traffic regulations.

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Putting your Tesla in self-drive mode is a simple process that can significantly enhance your driving experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can safely activate and use Tesla’s self-driving features. Always remain vigilant and ready to take control when needed. Enjoy the convenience and safety that Tesla’s Autopilot offers, and drive with confidence.