Tesla’s latest software update includes a cool-sounding feature that could prevent a lot of damage to the underbody – and maybe some damage to the driver, too. Electrek reports† According to the release notes, the update (2022.20) will allow Tesla vehicles to scan the road for potholes and adjust the suspension to account for rough roads.
Tesla owners can activate the new feature by selecting “Comfort” under the Adaptive Suspension Damping setting. But the new feature may depend on where the vehicle is driven – meaning it may not be available for every pothole and road tear. “This customization may take place in different locations, subject to availability, as the vehicle downloads raw road map data generated by Tesla cars,” the release notes read. according to No Tesla app†
Specifically, the software update does not apply to Autopilot or Full Self-Driving, meaning the vehicle will not attempt to steer around or avoid road damage. Elon Musk said that Tesla is working on a deterrent system that uses 3D labels to create pothole maps — but apparently that feature is still in development. Still, automatic suspension adjustments are nothing to scoff at. This can prevent a lot of vehicle damage that would otherwise be unavoidable for drivers.
The update also includes a green light chimes to avoid driver distraction. We’re all stuck behind some idiot who pays more attention to his phone than the traffic light in front of us. This new feature can help prevent traffic dispute incidents, or at least reduce the chance that drivers behind you will be waiting for you.
Electrek notes that the green light function only works with vehicles equipped with the hardware 3.0 computer, also known as the self-driving computer. “This chime is for notification purposes only,” the notes add. “It is the driver’s responsibility to observe his environment and make decisions accordingly.”
