US EV giant Tesla has introduced an update to its autopilot software in China, adding a city navigation feature, reported Reuters.
Announced via the company’s app, the update includes automatic lane-changing based on speed and route, as well as the ability to detect traffic lights at intersections and decide whether to turn.
Additionally, the company added an in-car camera to monitor driver attention as part of the software update.
While the features resemble Tesla’s “Full Self-Driving” (FSD) system, they are reportedly less advanced than those available in the US due to inadequate data training on Chinese roads and traffic regulations, according to a source familiar with the matter.
FSD employs generative AI to manage complex traffic conditions, whereas Autopilot is designed to handle more standard driving scenarios.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk was cited by the news agency as saying that the firm intends to fully introduce Autopilot and FSD systems in China.
However, Musk has acknowledged the difficulties posed by technological restrictions imposed by both the US and Chinese governments.
Initially targeting a rollout by the end of 2024, Tesla has now postponed the goal to this year.
The delay in deploying a complete FSD system has placed Tesla at a disadvantage against Chinese competitors such as Huawei, Xiaomi, and BYD.
Tesla currently charges nearly $9,000 for access to a limited version of FSD in its vehicles, which start at $32,000.
Musk said, Tesla is seeking regulatory approval from Beijing to implement a full-scale FSD rollout.
However, under current regulations, automakers in China are only required to register level-two autonomous driving updates with the industry ministry.
Both Autopilot and FSD are classified as level-two technologies, necessitating human oversight and intervention when required under Chinese law.
Recently, it was reported that Tesla commissioned a new megafactory in Shanghai, China, to manufacture energy-storage batteries, known as Megapacks.
This facility will have an initial annual production capacity of 10,000 units, or roughly 40 gigawatt-hours.
