Tesla's Full Self-Driving feature keeps getting better but those living in areas that get snow should be aware that it isn't quite ready for driving in those conditions, with a recent video demonstrating some of the issues. One of the problems is actually quite hilarious to watch, even though it would be terribly frustrating to experience.
Tesla has been updating its semi-autonomous Full Self-Driving (FSD) software at a furious pace and, while it is still considered to be a beta release, it is in use by thousands of Tesla drivers already. This real-world testing plays a big part in advancing the technology rapidly, as machine learning requires large and varied data to yield the best results. Existing data sets are quickly outdated and might not match actual conditions on the road, which would result in incomplete training. Limited information might be partially to blame for FSD's trouble with snow since Tesla cars are most popular in California.
In a recent video demonstrating the latest Tesla FSD 10.9 beta, YouTube channel anticipate the need to drive slower, take turns more carefully, and begin stopping further back.
Tesla's Wiper Problem
The most surprising detail revealed in the video isn't actually hazardous but more of an annoyance. When Tesla FSD is enabled, the wipers are adjusted automatically and apparently can't be overridden. From the very beginning of the video, the wipers are squeaking against the front windshield since the glass is dry and keep going for quite some time. Later the problem gets worse as it starts wiping at a furious pace.
It's a hilarious example of how far there is left to go to reach autonomous driving and how every AI-powered system really needs to have an option for a human to override it. In some cases, it's a matter of comfort, while in others, it's for safety. Although Elon Musk recently stated in an investor call that Level 4 autonomy would probably be reached by Tesla Full Self-Driving in 2022, it looks like it might still need some work to adequately cope in extreme conditions.
Source: Dirty Tesla/YouTube