A few months ago, Tesla released the latest version of its self-driving hardware. This week, dashboard camera footage from the Netherlands showcased the life-saving potential of this automated technology.
In a video posted on Twitter, Tesla’s Forward Warning Collision system notifies the passengers of a potential collision. The Tesla vehicle then applies its brakes, accurately predicting the car crash that occurs moments later. Thankfully, no serious injuries were sustained during the accident.
According to Tesla, “Twelve updated ultrasonic sensors complement this vision, allowing for detection of both hard and soft objects at nearly twice the distance of the prior system. A forward-facing radar with enhanced processing provides additional data about the world on a redundant wavelength that is able to see through heavy rain, fog, dust, and even the car ahead.”
The new radar processing technology allows the system to “see” beyond the car directly in front of the Tesla vehicle. This means the radar vision extends two cars ahead, enabling the Tesla Model S or X to foresee dangers that are obstructed from the driver’s view of the road.
By combining radar detection and visual sensors, the vehicle featured in the Twitter video was able to accurately anticipate a highway hazard and brake during a practical, real-world situation. When on the road, the precious seconds gained by predictive technology can mean all the difference.
