Our phones can predict our lives, why not cars too?

Sven Gustafson
        

Image Credit: Tesla

Tesla Adds Level 5 Autonomous Driving Hardware

Tesla announced last night that it's taking a stab at Level 5 autonomous driving, the holy grail of driverless technology, with a slew of new hardware it will install as standard on all new Model 3 and Model S sedans and Model X crossovers.

While Tesla's announcement marks a significant step forward in the quest for a truly driverless car, it's important to understand what Level 5 autonomy means, what kind of new technology is in place on the automaker's upcoming models, and what it's going to cost drivers in the short term.

 

       Image Credit: Beck Diefenbach / Reuters

Level 3 vs. Level 5 Autonomy

Why is Level 5 such a big deal? Well, it's quite simple. The original Autopilot system employed by thousands of Tesla owners is what the Society of Automotive Engineers calls Level 3 or "conditional automation." In these vehicles, the SAE explains, the car handles acceleration, brakes, and steering while monitoring the outside environment in certain driving modes. But a human still needs to sit behind the wheel for any "dynamic driving task," like steering, braking, accelerating, watching the road, changing lanes, using turn signals, and responding to events.

A full Level 5 vehicle doesn't require a human. Period. The car's systems are capable of handling any situation on the road without a driver's input. That means you could theoretically take a nap or read a book. Like we said, Level 5 autonomy is the holy grail.

Eight cameras: 360 degrees at 820 feet.

New Model 3s, Ss, and Xs will each rely on eight cameras to provide a 360-degree view at distances up to 820 feet. Based on images released by Tesla, the little lenses are everywhere, from conventional locations like at the top of the windshield to more unlikely ones like the B-pillar and facing backwards from the fender badges.