Tesla software update brings autopilot mode to electric cars - CEO cautions it'll 'hopefully' not hit pedestrians

Electric car maker Tesla has issued a software update that allows drivers to engage an 'autopilot' mode on the Model S and the newly-revealed Model X . When engaged, the car will automatically steer down roads, change lanes if necessary and adjust its speed. Using sensors, it will also be able to parallel park itself in an available space. However, the CEO of Tesla - billionaire Elon Musk - has cautioned that the new features don't take liability away from the driver .

The Tesla Model X is the company's latest electric vehicle

"The driver cannot abdicate responsibility. That will come at some point in the future," said Musk. "It
should not hit pedestrians, hopefully," he said. "It should handle them well." To minimise risk, the driver must keep their hands on the wheel when the autopilot mode is enabled. The car will chime out if the hands are removed to remind them. "We’re being especially cautious at this early stage, so we’re advising drivers to keep their hands on the wheel just in case,” said Musk. Adding that the software "is very new.”

The software will use sensors and cameras on the car as well as mapping software to determine its position

About 60,000 vehicles around the world will be receiving the update. Some of the older versions of the Model S aren't able to receive it because they don't have required sensors for the software to work. According to Tesla, the software will continue to improve itself by "learning" the driving abilities of people behind the wheel. “I think this is going to be quite a profound experience for people,” Musk said. “It will change people’s perception of the future quite drastically.”

Elon Musk is the CEO of Tesla

Other companies, most famously Google , but also Volvo, Audi and BMW are experimenting with autonomous and semi-autonomous cars. Even Apple is rumoured to be building its own car .

A Tesla Motors Inc. badge is displayed on the company's Model S sedan electric vehicle

The average driver in England spends 235 hours driving every year - the equivalent of six working weeks.