Image: Tesla US
Every year, Tesla owners receive multiple over-the-air (OTA) software updates that help improve the car’s feature set and the in-car experience.
Now, the company’s upcoming software update is expected to bring multiple new features, including increasing the car’s security by getting more cameras to record their surroundings.
According to an article posted by Tesla on X, the upcoming “Spring” software update will allow the car’s side cameras found on the B-pillar of the car to record and save footage.
With this update, the total number of recording cameras will increase from 4 to 6, allowing the car to see more of what’s happening around it when it’s parked and the sentry mode is activated.
The article also states that this update applies to newer versions of Model S, X, 3 and Y vehicles, but it’s unclear if pre-facelift versions of 3 & Y sold in Australia are likely to receive it.
There is also an update to how the recorded Sentry mode footage is viewed via the Dashcam viewer app found in Tesla EVs.
The Dashcam app now allows drivers a better viewing experience and makes it easier to find and view recently recorded clips.
As a pre-loaded feature, the Sentry mode is one of the most popular features in a Tesla as it uses the existing hardware to record security video, giving owners peace of mind in case it’s needed to be accessed following any incidents.
These cameras can also be accessed via the Tesla app, allowing for live viewing of what’s happening around the Tesla vehicle in case owners want to check their surroundings.
Another update is coming to the in-car navigation, which allows for better trip planning by providing multiple on-route options.
There are also key changes to showing nearby amenities and businesses, such as restaurants, cafes, and shops, at the bottom of the screen.
The car’s navigation system can also avoid highways to allow for an alternate route.
A real practical feature that many owners will use is saving the boot opening height based on a specific location of their Tesla.
In garages and car parks with a low roof, it’s a helpful feature, reducing the likelihood of damage to the boot lid.
As Tesla notes in its OTA release article: “Customize the opening height of your trunk & save it as the default for a specific location, such as your garage.”
Tesla’s software updates have brought many features to improve safety, convenience and entertainment to owners for many years.
As competition in the EV space continues to grow, it’s another key area that sets it apart from others in the market, mainly thanks to how frequent these updates are.
It also helps those looking to buy a used EV, with many used Model 3 and Y vehicles now having way more features than when they were new.
The latest update will be rolling out in the coming weeks.
Riz is the founder of carloop based in Melbourne, specialising in Australian EV data, insight reports and trends. He is a mechanical engineer who spent the first 7 years of his career building transport infrastructure before starting carloop. He has a passion for cars, particularly EVs and wants to help reduce transport emissions in Australia. He currently drives a red Tesla Model 3.
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