Tesla Rolls out Improved Self-Driving Parking Tech

Tesla has finally released the new version of its Smart Summon system – the automated feature designed to take the strain out of negotiating parking lots.

The upgraded tech, now called Actually Smart Summon (or ASS), allows owners to autonomously navigate parking scenarios without actually being in the car.

Its arrival is somewhat overdue, though, given that CEO Elon Musk initially promised that it would be offered by the end of September 2022.

A version of Smart Summon had existed previously, but effectively became inactive when Tesla switched to camera-only tech, removing radar sensors from its vehicles.

And the earlier version of Smart Summon was not without its problems, anyway, with one memorable mishap seeing a Model Y collide with a jet at an airport in Spokane, Washington, while being deployed in the mode.

Now though, ASS is here, allowing owners to literally summon their vehicles from parking bays. And it is complemented by an additional feature, called rather unpromisingly, Dumb Summon. The release notes for the tech explain how both work.

They read: “Buckle up for the ride of your life, except, surprise! You’re not in the car. ASS (Actually Smart Summon) allows your vehicle to come to you, or head to a spot that you choose, all on its own. It’s like magic, but with more tech and less wand-waving.

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“Additionally, Dumb Summon allows you to move your Tesla forward or back with simple controls directly in your mobile app.

“To use, open your Tesla app, hit the Summon tab and get a live feed from your car’s cameras to guide your supervision.

COME TO ME: Press and hold to have your Tesla come to you.

GO TO TARGET: Set where you want your Tesla to go, then press and hold to send it on its merry way.”

The notes go on to explain that journeys can be halted at any time by letting go of the button, while – in an effort to prevent misuse – there is a reminder that the tech should only be used in parking lots and on driveways, and a warning that owners should keep an eye on their car and its surroundings at all times.

The notes conclude: “You are still responsible for your vehicle, so watch as it drives and stop it if necessary.”

Already owners have started posting videos of the tech in operation on social media, with the initial response largely positive.

The tech is currently available on versions of the Model S, Model 3, Model X and Model Y fitted with the firm’s latest Hardware 4. 

Cars fitted with older Hardware 3 tech will get ASS and Dumb Summon in due course, while likely future upgrades include an improved range and removing the requirement to hold the button down on the app while operating the features.

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