Tesla’s latest software update, version 2024.26, has introduced several exciting new features and improvements, including the addition of YouTube Music to its infotainment system. However, the latest revisions within this update, specifically builds 2024.26.7 and 2024.26.8, bring crucial enhancements to Tesla’s Autopilot and Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) systems.
European Camera OTA Recall
Build 2024.26.7 addresses a specific recall submission (EU Recall Submission “2024_23366”) concerning Tesla’s Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in Europe. This recall is focused on the vehicle’s door pillar cameras, which play a critical role in the functionality of Autopilot and other driver assistance features.
Under this update, Tesla has implemented increased checks to ensure that these cameras are not obstructed or blinded. If any obstruction is detected, Autopilot features will be temporarily disabled until the cameras are cleared and unobstructed. This precautionary measure is designed to enhance safety by ensuring that ADAS operates under optimal conditions. It is important to note that this recall is specific to the European Union and the UK, and does not affect Tesla vehicles in North America, China, or other markets.
Improvements to Automatic Emergency Braking
The subsequent build, 2024.26.8, brings notable advancements to Tesla’s Automatic Emergency Braking system, a key component of vehicle safety. The AEB system is integral in preventing accidents by automatically applying the brakes when a collision is imminent.
The update enhances the AEB system’s ability to respond to a wider range of scenarios, though specific details on these new scenarios are not yet detailed in Tesla’s vehicle manual or website. Last year, Tesla had already expanded the AEB system’s capabilities to include responses to perpendicular vehicles and improved functionality while reversing and at higher speeds, up to 124 mph (200 km/h). The current update further builds on these improvements.
While it is not clear if the AEB enhancements in 2024.26.8 extend to MCU1 vehicles (which had received recent AEB updates), the automatic nature of AEB activation means that these safety features will be operational immediately following the update. Tesla’s new parental controls also ensure that AEB remains enabled and cannot be inadvertently turned off, adding an extra layer of safety.
Overall, Tesla continues to demonstrate its commitment to safety and innovation with these updates. The focus on enhancing Autopilot functionality and expanding the capabilities of Automatic Emergency Braking underscores Tesla’s dedication to improving vehicle safety and driver assistance.