Tesla Software Update: Autosteer Speed Limit Bumped Up, Summon, Auto Lane Change Features Added

Tesla CEO Elon Musk announced Wednesday the company’s 8.1 software update for its cars on Twitter. The update reportedly brings many new features including a beta introduction of the Summon feature.

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Apart from Musk’s tweet, official details about the update are currently scarce. However, many reports have emerged about features of the update. Here's a lowdown.

Increased Autosteer speed: The update boosts Autosteer speed limit from 55 miles per hour to 80 miles per hour, according to Electrek. But the feature will be automatically calibrated, which means you will have to drive on highways at 55 miles per hour for a few days using the feature, and then the speed limit will be bumped up.

Summon feature: This feature was present in vehicles that have the Autopilot 1.0 software, and the update brought it to Autopilot 2.0 vehicles. It allows users to park and retrieve their vehicles using the keyfob or Tesla’s mobile app. The car can also be parked just by double tapping the Park button on the gearshift.

For the feature to work using the app or keyfob, the device needs to be within 39 feet of the car, according to CNET. The feature is currently in beta and the company advises drivers to use the feature on private property and take care of obstacles.

Auto lane change: This new feature allows Tesla owners to flick the turn signal on to get the car to initiate a lane change in Autosteer mode.

The update also brings minor updates for both Autopilot 1.0 and Autopilot 2.0 vehicles — the console on Model X can now disable automatic seat adjustment for the second row of seats and the default opening height of the car’s Falcon doors can be lowered, something which could help in congested parking spaces.

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Drivers will also be able to see the Google rating and hours of operation of a business when they click on it on their vehicles’ navigation system. Front row headrests can now be adjusted using the button which adjusts the lumbar support.

CNET added the update was currently available only in North America, but would roll out soon globally.