A Tesla Model Y running the latest FSD (Full Self-Driving) Version 12 software has driven a man to hospital fully autonomously after he suffered a heart attack.
MaxPaul Franklin, a producer based in North Carolina in the US, posted the story on X saying that the day after Tesla opened up one month FSD trials for all Tesla owners in the US, he suffering severe dehydration and a blood glucose level of 670 due to a malfunction with his insulin pump.
Franklin managed to make it to his Model Y, got inside and engaged FSD.
“Without any intervention, the car skillfully navigated the 13-mile (20kms) Â journey from my home to the VA Emergency Room, offering to autonomously park it upon arrival and let me seek immediate medical attention,” says Franklin.
“Despite enduring a mild heart attack, I left the hospital with no restrictions on my exercise regimen, a testament to the swift and efficient response facilitated by the vehicle and the # 1 VA in America.”
Glad Tesla FSD was there to help and that you’re feeling well! https://t.co/8krLuAMEaj
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) April 11, 2024
Over the past two weeks, the online Tesla community has been abuzz with rave reviews of Tesla’s latest FSD software update (Version 12.3.3) suggesting Tesla’s engineers have made a significant breakthrough with the technology.
In addition to many beta version testers saying they are now experiencing zero interventions during long and complex city drives, other clues suggesting a breakthrough include Musk’s email to all North American employees saying FSD full demonstrations are now required as part of vehicle deliveries, and most of all, the announcement of the Robotaxi reveal.
Stories such as Maxpaul Franklin’s remind us that the benefits of FSD extend well beyond everyday commuting. Autonomous taxis will enable people with medical conditions, as well as people with disabilities to navigate point-to-point around cities.
Daniel Bleakley is a clean technology researcher and advocate with a background in engineering and business. He has a strong interest in electric vehicles, renewable energy, manufacturing and public policy.