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Tesla’s “Actually Smart Summon” Launch
- Tesla has officially launched the “Actually Smart Summon” feature, an automated driver-assist system for autonomous parking navigation.
- Initially promised in 2022, the feature faced multiple setbacks and was renamed to “Actually Smart Summon” to address the long wait.
- Owners can access A.S.S. through the Tesla app by pressing and holding the “Come to Me” or “Go to Target” button.
- Tesla advises drivers to monitor their cars and be prepared to stop the vehicle if needed.
- The launch of A.S.S. marks a significant step towards Tesla’s ambition of achieving full self-driving capabilities.
- Tesla plans to continue enhancing A.S.S. with future updates, including integration with HomeLink and myQ systems, increased vehicle travel distance, and potentially eliminating the need to hold the button continuously.
Whether you love him or hate him, Elon Musk has a knack for turning internet humor into marketing wins. What started with Tesla’s lineup spelling out “S.3.X.Y” (Model S, Model 3, Model X, and Model Y) has reached a new high with the launch of the “Actually Smart Summon,” or A.S.S. for short.
What is “Actually Smart Summon”?
After numerous delays, Tesla has officially launched the “Actually Smart Summon” feature, an automated driver-assist system that allows Tesla vehicles to autonomously navigate parking lots and driveways without a driver in the vehicle. Initially promised in 2022, the feature faced multiple setbacks before its recent release. Elon Musk even joked about the delays by renaming the feature to “Actually Smart Summon” to address the long wait.
How Does “Actually Smart Summon” Work?
With Tesla’s latest software update, owners can now access A.S.S. through the Tesla app. By pressing and holding either the “Come to Me” or “Go to Target” button, users can summon their Tesla to their location or send it to a specific spot.
Tesla emphasizes that drivers remain responsible for their vehicles, even when not behind the wheel. The company advises users to monitor their cars while using the feature and be prepared to stop the vehicle if needed. This cautious stance is crucial, given the unpredictable nature of parking lots filled with pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles—environments that can challenge even the most advanced AI systems.
A Step Towards Full Self-Driving
Despite the potential risks and limitations, the launch of A.S.S. marks a significant step toward Tesla’s ambition of achieving full self-driving capabilities. Autonomous navigation in parking lots to pick up and drop off passengers is a key milestone in this journey.
Tesla plans to continue enhancing A.S.S. with future updates. Upcoming features include integration with HomeLink and myQ systems to control garage doors, increasing the distance a vehicle can travel without driver supervision, and potentially eliminating the need to hold the button continuously while using the feature.
The Road Ahead
While “Actually Smart Summon” is a significant advancement, it’s still a work in progress. Tesla will likely continue to refine and improve the feature based on real-world data and user feedback. In the meantime, Tesla owners can enjoy the convenience of their cars coming to them—turning what started as a meme-worthy moment into a practical innovation for the future of driving.
