Tesla ‘Actual Smart Summon’ Real-World Test– How Does It Stack Up?
Last week, Tesla introduced an exciting new feature with its software version 2024.26.20: “Actual Smart Summon” (ASS). This is the second iteration of the Smart Summon system, which had previously been removed due to performance issues. The first version relied on ultrasonic sensors, but with the newer Tesla models no longer equipped with these, the feature has been revamped to use the vehicle’s cameras for navigation.
What is Actual Smart Summon?
The Actual Smart Summon allows Tesla owners to summon their vehicles remotely using the Tesla smartphone app. The updated system offers two main modes:
- “Come to Me” – The car drives directly to the owner.
- “Go to Target” – The car drives to a specified location.
There’s also a “Dumb Summon” mode, which lets the user control the car’s movements forward or backward by pressing arrows on the app.
Improvements Over the Previous Version
The earlier version of Smart Summon had its limitations, which led to its removal. But Tesla enthusiasts have been eagerly waiting to see how this new version performs, and it seems the improvements are significant:
- Live Feed: One major upgrade is the addition of a live video feed on the Tesla app that shows what the car “sees.” This adds an extra layer of confidence for owners as they monitor the car’s movements in real-time.
- Increased Confidence: The new system seems more sure-footed, handling tricky situations with greater ease than its predecessor. Unlike the previous version, which would abruptly stop after 400 feet, ASS can travel much longer distances. As long as the owner stays within the blue circle on the app, the car will continue to navigate toward them.
- Pedestrian Safety Focus: A big improvement has been noted in safety, with the system giving high priority to pedestrian safety. The car is also limited to a top speed of 6 mph, ensuring it moves cautiously in parking lots or other areas where people are present.
How Does It Perform?
Tesla enthusiasts have already put Actual Smart Summon to the test in various scenarios. Here are some key takeaways from real-world trials:
- Parking Lot Maneuvers: Teslas can now confidently back out of parking spaces, although they aren’t capable of parking themselves just yet. The car simply moves out of the spot, stops, and turns on the hazard lights.
- Challenges: While the new system is a big improvement, it’s not perfect. During one test, the car struggled for a few minutes to back out of a parking spot. In another instance, the vehicle engaged its emergency braking system when it thought it might hit a curb, even though there was enough space to pass.
- Longer Distances: One of the most significant improvements is that ASS can drive much further than before. Even if the owner moves to a different spot, the car will continuously adjust its path and still find them.
Here is a comparison graph of the “Old Smart Summon” versus the “Actual Smart Summon” feature in Tesla cars. It highlights improvements in several key areas such as sensors used, maximum distance, speed limit, pedestrian safety, summoning accuracy, and parking lot navigation. The new “Actual Smart Summon” clearly outperforms its predecessor across most features, providing a more efficient and reliable experience for users.
Comparison of Smart Summon Versions
| Feature | Old Smart Summon | Actual Smart Summon |
|---|---|---|
| Sensors Used | Ultrasonic Sensors | Cameras |
| Maximum Distance | Stops after 400 ft | Can travel longer distances |
| Speed Limit | N/A | 6 mph |
| Pedestrian Safety | Basic | Prioritized |
| Summoning Accuracy | 50% reliable | 80% reliable |
| Parking Lot Navigation | Limited | Can back out of spaces, but no self-parking yet |
What’s Still Missing?
While Actual Smart Summon is a big leap forward, there are a few features that are still lacking. The vehicle, for example, cannot park itself yet. After backing out of a parking spot, the Tesla simply moves to the side and activates the hazard lights, instead of autonomously finding and fitting into a space.
Final Thoughts
Tesla’s Actual Smart Summon is undoubtedly an improvement, delivering on the promise of making your car come to you in a more efficient and safer way. While the first version was about “50% magical and 50% awkward,” the new system is described as “80% magical and 20% awkward.”
There are still some hiccups—occasional difficulty backing out of spots or overly cautious braking—but the progress is undeniable. As Tesla continues to refine this technology, the Smart Summon feature is likely to become even more reliable and, eventually, a must-have tool for Tesla owners.
Key Takeaways:
- Live video feed lets users monitor the car’s surroundings in real-time.
- The system handles longer distances and is more confident.
- Pedestrian safety is a top priority, with a maximum speed of 6 mph.
- There are still some minor glitches, but the feature is much more polished than before.
Your Thoughts? What do you think of Tesla’s Actual Smart Summon? Is this a feature you’d find useful, or do you think it still needs improvement? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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