Tesla's FSD V12 Faces the Ultimate Obstacle Course: Can It Dodge Hot Wheels, Cardboard Boxes, and...a Child Mannequin?
When it comes to the progression and innovation in autonomous driving, Tesla is often at the forefront of the conversation. The release of Full Self-Driving (FSD) Version 12 has promised enhancements and refinements over its predecessor, Version 11. As someone deeply enmeshed in the advancements of autonomous technology, I was intrigued by a recent video testing the limits of Tesla's updated software in a series of real-world obstacle avoidance tests. Accompanied by Stephanie, the video's host embarked on a fascinating journey to discover if these high-tech vehicles could intelligently navigate around an array of objects placed deliberately in their path.
The Test Begins: An Assortment of Objects
The video opens with a light-hearted introduction, preparing viewers for an intriguing set of experiments. The first object, a sunshade provided by their sponsor Joa, is unceremoniously run over by the Tesla Model Y, equipped with the latest Hardware 4. This outcome set a baseline expectation, but also sparked curiosity about what might happen with objects of various shapes, sizes, and materials.
As the tests progressed, the results varied widely. A small Hot Wheels car and a toy roadster were next - the Tesla impressively navigated around the larger roadster but failed to detect the smaller Hot Wheels car, driving straight over it. This hinted at the limitations of the FSD's object detection based on size and perhaps reflectivity.
Cardboard and Exercise Balls: A Challenge?
Cardboard boxes, both standing and laid flat, were used to further challenge the Tesla's FSD. Remarkably, the car handled these objects with a degree of caution and awareness, slowing down and in one instance, choosing to halt entirely when faced with a laid-down box. This was a stark contrast to its handling of the toy cars, suggesting that FSD's object detection is far more nuanced than simply identifying obstacles. The system displayed an ability to prioritize based on the obstacle's dimensions and potential threat level.
Real Danger and Unexpected Humor
Amidst the lighter tests, real potential dangers were also explored. An incorrectly attached trailer hitch scenario was simulated, showing that FSD Version 12 could recognize and slow down for the hazard, although it did not fully stop before reaching it. This portion of the test likely provided the most applicable insight into how FSD might react to common road hazards.
The tests took a whimsically scientific turn with the introduction of an exercise ball thrown in front of the moving Tesla. The car's reaction times and decision-making processes were put to the test, with mixed results that showcased both the system's sensitivity and its limitations. At one point, the car mistakenly displayed a dog icon on the dash, bringing an unexpected humorous twist to the otherwise serious obstacle avoidance tests.
The Final Test: A Child Mannequin
The climax of the experimentation was the child mannequin test, intended to mimic a small child darting out onto the road. Here, FSD demonstrated a commendably cautious approach, successfully stopping before the mannequin in multiple scenarios. This was perhaps the most critical test for reassurance on the software's capability to protect human life in unpredictable settings.
Throughout the tests, one thing became clear: Tesla's FSD technology is on an exciting trajectory of improvement, but it's not without its flaws. The vehicle's performance varied dramatically based on the type of obstacles it encountered, showcasing the complex interplay between machine learning algorithms, sensor accuracy, and real-world variability.
This exploration into the capabilities of Tesla's FSD Version 12 offers both encouragement and areas for further refinement. As autonomous technology continues to evolve, the potential for increased safety and convenience on our roads is undeniable. However, the journey there is proving to be filled with intriguing challenges, as demonstrated by this series of tests.