Tesla Discontinues Free Autopilot: What This Means for Drivers
Tesla has announced the end of its free Autopilot feature, replacing it with a $99/month subscription service that includes lane-keeping and other advanced driver assistance systems

Tesla Discontinues Free Autopilot: What This Means for Drivers
Tesla has made a significant change to its Autopilot feature, discontinuing the free version and introducing a new subscription-based service. The move has sparked controversy among Tesla owners, who will now be required to pay a $99/month fee to access advanced driver assistance systems like lane-keeping.
The decision to end free Autopilot is a strategic one, as Tesla seeks to generate additional revenue streams and incentivize customers to upgrade to its more premium services. However, the change has raised concerns among some owners, who feel that the cost is too high and that the feature should remain a standard part of the vehicle's package.
What is Autopilot and How Does it Work?
Autopilot is a suite of advanced driver assistance systems that use a combination of cameras, radar, and ultrasonic sensors to enable semi-autonomous driving. The feature allows Tesla vehicles to steer, accelerate, and brake automatically, and is designed to reduce the workload of the driver and improve safety on the road.
Some of the key features of Autopilot include:
- Lane-keeping: The vehicle stays within its lane and adjusts its position as needed
- Adaptive cruise control: The vehicle maintains a safe distance from other cars and adjusts its speed to match traffic conditions
- Autosteer: The vehicle steers itself, allowing the driver to take their hands off the wheel for extended periods
Implications of the Change
The decision to end free Autopilot has significant implications for Tesla owners, who will now need to weigh the costs and benefits of subscribing to the service. Some of the key considerations include:
- Cost: The $99/month fee is a significant expense, especially for owners who only occasionally use Autopilot
- Convenience: The subscription service provides access to a range of advanced features, including lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control
- Safety: Autopilot has been shown to improve safety on the road, reducing the risk of accidents and near-misses
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