Skip to main content

Tesla just made it easier to access Autopilot in your Model 3 sedan

The autonomous car industry has been under intense scrutiny in the last few weeks, following a self-driving Uber vehicle’s fatal crash with a pedestrian and a more recent Tesla Model X car accident that killed the driver while Autopilot was engaged. And as carmakers and technologists alike look for ways to mitigate the danger involved with autonomous vehicles, Tesla is looking to make it a bit easier to control its Autopilot feature.

The company recently released an update that adjusts the controls for the self-driving option from the center infotainment console to the easier-to-access steering wheel. That way, drivers should be able to keep their eyes on the road as they adjust Autopilot’s speed and other aspects — something that they — a bit shockingly — were unable to do before.

The update will be rolled out to Tesla’s Model 3, a car that has been in high demand (but low production) for months on end. Because the car is meant to be as minimalist as possible, different features on the car aren’t actually labeled. That means that the controls on the vehicle’s steering wheels can actually be changed depending on the driver’s needs (or Tesla’s whims).

As per the latest update, when you’re in Traffic-Aware Cruise Control mode, you’ll just need to roll the right-hand scroll button either up or down to increase or decrease your speed. In order to adjust the distance between your own car and the one in front of it, push the right button either to the left or the right. While you can still adjust these same settings from the touchscreen, this update adds some additional functionality and control to the driving experience.

Tesla noted in its update notes that the left scroll button will now allow you to “adjust your Model 3 side mirrors and steering wheel. Start by tapping the Controls icon on the bottom left corner of the touchscreen and then tap Quick Controls > Adjustments.” You can also adjust your mirrors by tapping Mirrors and then selecting the Left or Right mirror icon. “Then, scroll the left button up or down, or press it left or right.” You can similarly adjust the steering wheel using the same process (you’ll need to tap the Steering Wheel option, of course).

Lulu Chang
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Fascinated by the effects of technology on human interaction, Lulu believes that if her parents can use your new app…
The Tesla Model Y is far from my favorite EV, but I’m pretty close to buying one
Tesla Model Y One Millionth Car

I may finally be on my way toward buying my first EV. Sure, I've tested dozens of electric car models over the years, but despite that (or perhaps because of it), I have yet to buy one. But my family is growing, and my wife and I aren't so sure about carting our future kids around in an aging car that lacks the safety features of modern vehicles.

Because of the fact that we're expecting our kid in January, we have a bit of a deadline. So what are we leaning toward? Well, despite the fact that it's far from my favorite EV, we may actually end up just getting a Model Y.
Timing makes a difference
If the baby was coming along in a year's time, things might be completely different. There are a few reasons for that.

Read more
Tesla Model 3 vs. Hyundai Ioniq 6: Which electric sedan is best?
Front three quarter view of the 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6.

There are finally some more electric sedan options. For years, the Tesla Model 3 was really the only good electric sedan that comes at a reasonable price -- until, Hyundai recently launched the Ioniq 6. The Ioniq 6 certainly takes some cues from the larger Ioniq 5, but is smaller and sleeker, with a design seemingly inspired by the Porsche 911.

But the Tesla Model 3 is still clearly an excellent option for those looking for an electric car, and who don't want a larger crossover. Which is better? Here's a look.
Design
The exterior design of the Tesla Model 3 and Hyundai Ioniq 6 is quite different. If you've seen a Tesla car before, then you'll immediately recognize the Model 3 -- it looks largely like a slightly different version of every other Tesla (except the Cybertruck).

Read more
Tesla launches more affordable Model S and Model X, but there’s a catch
A 2021 Tesla Model S.

Tesla has launched more affordable versions of its Model S sedan and Model X SUV in the U.S. and Canada, though they come with shorter driving ranges. Deliveries of the new vehicles will begin next month.

The new Model S "standard range" vehicles cost $78,490 and offer a range of up to 320 miles (515 kilometers), which is considerably shorter than the pricier regular dual-motor and tri-motor Plaid versions that feature a range of 405 miles and 396 miles, respectively, Reuters reported.

Read more