Tesla Model S update 6.2 adds Range Assurance, blind spot monitoring, automated braking
Overnight Tesla Motors announced an over-the-air software update for its Tesla Model S, which adds a slew of new features to the all-electric sedan.
With its new Trip Planner and Range Assurance functions, Tesla is hoping to "end range anxiety" for both current and potential Model S owners.
When the driver keys a final destination into the Trip Planner (above), the system will plot out a route that incorporates all the necessary Supercharger pit stops. Had this function been available last year, it would have made planning for our 1800km trip from Seattle to Los Angeles easier.
The Range Assurance module (below) runs constantly in the background, even if navigation system is off, monitoring the car's battery charge. If it believes that you may soon venture out of charging range, the system will prompt the driver with nearby Supercharger locations, previously used charging spots, and recharging outlets installed by Tesla at hotels and resorts.
Two new safety features will also be included in software update 6.2: automated emergency braking and blind spot monitoring. In the Model S, the blind spot monitoring system will be active between 30 and 140km/h, with alerts coming up in the instrument cluster. In the case of a likely collision, the system will also vibrate the steering wheel and sound a warning chime.
Another new inclusion is valet mode, which can be used to limit the car's top speed, as well as lock guests out from the glove box, frunk (front trunk) and access to personal details stored on the infotainment system.
Update 6.2 will begin rolling out to Tesla Model S sedans in around two weeks' time.