Tesla's Autopilot system is made up of multiple sensors placed all around the car. These sensors help the car understand its environment so that it can safely steer itself in most highway situations.
The hardware that makes up Tesla's self-driving system includes a forward radar, a forward-looking camera, a high-precision digitally-controlled electric assist braking system, and 12 long-range ultrasonic sensors placed around the car.
These ultrasonic sensors are strategically placed around the car so that they can sense 16 feet around the car in every direction, at any speed.
The senors enable the vehicle to sense when something is too close and gauge the appropriate distance so that it can do things like safely change lanes.
However, it should be noted that these sensors can be thrown off by things like debris covering them.
The forward-facing camera is located on the top windshield. A computer inside the camera helps the car understand what obstacles are ahead of the car.
The camera is basically the system's eyes. It enables the car to detect traffic, pedestrians, road signs, lane markings, and anything else that might be in front of the vehicle. This information is then used to help the car drive itself.
To activate Autopilot, you simply pull the cruise control stalk towards you twice and the car will take over steering.
To disengage Autopilot, you push the button on the end of the cruise control stalk, push the stalk forward, or press the brake. You can also disable Autosteer by slightly turning the wheel.
While Autopilot is activated, the car is capable of steering within a lane, changing lanes, managing the speed of the car, and controlling braking while driving on the highway.
Tesla vehicles with Autopilot can also self-parallel park and self-park in perpendicular positions.
In January, the company also updated the system so that it can even enter or exit parking spots without a driver in the vehicle. Driver's can also "summon" their cars to pick them up.
There are plenty of things Tesla's Autopilot still shouldn't do, like driving in residential zones with street lights and stop signs. The system is intended for highway use only.
The car will show you in the instrument control panel what traffic, obstacles, and lane markings it is detecting.
While Autopilot can do most of the driving while cruising down the highway, drivers should always keep their hands on the wheel.
"The driver is still responsible for, and ultimately in control of, the car. What's more, you always have intuitive access to the information your car is using to inform its actions," Tesla said in a statement in October when it first released Autopilot.
The Autopilot system is designed to sense if your hands are on the wheel. If a you haven't touched the steering wheel in awhile it will alert you visually and audibly to take control.
If you still don't take control, the car will begin to slow itself down.
Tesla's Autopilot system is also constantly learning from other cars in the Tesla fleet and improving.
The camera, radar, ultrasonic sensors and GPS all work together to constantly provide real-time feedback from the Tesla fleet. This data is then used to improve the overall system.
