They just really shouldn't have called this autopilot. It creates all the wrong expectations.
Better names:
- Advanced cruise control
- Lane Following
Doesn't sound as sexy, though. :-)
Better names:
- Advanced cruise control
- Lane Following
Doesn't sound as sexy, though. :-)
Have you read the marketing on the website?
All you will need to do is get in and tell your car where to go. If you don’t say anything, the car will look at your calendar and take you there as the assumed destination or just home if nothing is on the calendar. Your Tesla will figure out the optimal route, navigate urban streets (even without lane markings), manage complex intersections with traffic lights, stop signs and roundabouts, and handle densely packed freeways with cars moving at high speed. When you arrive at your destination, simply step out at the entrance and your car will enter park seek mode, automatically search for a spot and park itself. A tap on your phone summons it back to you.
So it's not like this is a case of "it's called something that it isn't really", or mismanaged expectations. Tesla is explicitly stating the car drives itself. They still claim it's "Autopilot". Is what they are selling anything close to what is described there?
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Autopilot
Furthermore, even if you're totally aware it's only assistance, there is a tendency to be more easily distracted. That's what a google study found like 5 years ago.
I am a huge Tesla fanboy, and stock holder. But be careful.. if you are struggling to remain vigilant... turn off autopilot.
Again, where do you get that this is a "misconception among the general public"? Read the marketing. Watch the demos. Listen to the claims.
"Tap your phone and the car will return to you". Where does being vigilant behind the wheel fit with that?
Cogging Cruise Control ?