Despite Tesla still working out the issues with its software-activated autopilot, it seems to be doing a good job at saving lives and preventing collisions already.
A Seattle Uber driver barely avoided a crash thanks to the system braking in his Model S P85D. The driver was going about 45 mph in a left-hand lane watching the traffic on his right when a car cut in front of his Tesla and he didn’t have time to stop, so the autopilot did it for him.
As can be seen in this case, the autopilot uses a forward-facing camera, forward radar, 12 long-range ultrasonic sensors, and a digitally controlled electronic assist braking system. All combined the Model S has a 16-foot radius around the car that can detect any obstacles and give the braking system time to react.
Newly ordered Model S sedans will come with the advanced autopilot system, which comes with front and side collision detection and automatic emergency braking. Buyers can also opt to add other autonomous features like self-parking.