A Journey from Skepticism to Trust (3/12/2025)
Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system has always been a topic of intrigue and debate within its fan base. Having used earlier versions of FSD last year, I found it fascinating, albeit not entirely convincing. However, recent experiences with the latest v13.2.8 have significantly altered my perspective.
For the past two weeks, I have been commuting to work about 25 miles each way from Cary to Raleigh three times a week, often during rush hour traffic. This period has been a transformative experience in terms of my relationship with FSD.
Navigating through rush hour traffic can be a daunting task for any driver. It requires constant vigilance, quick decision-making, and a nuanced understanding of traffic flow. To my surprise, the FSD handled these challenges with remarkable proficiency. It demonstrated impeccable lane discipline in standard mode and matched the traffic flow perfectly. Rarely did I need to intervene.
One of the most significant changes I observed was in my own driving behavior. Before, I tended to drive more aggressively, taking every opportunity to maneuver through traffic swiftly. However, with FSD at the helm, I found myself becoming a more patient and composed driver. I trusted the system to negotiate the traffic efficiently, and it did so with the finesse of an experienced driver.
While FSD managed most of the driving, there were moments when I felt the need to take control. For instance, when signaling to change lanes, I occasionally used the turn signals to prompt my Model Y. These interventions were minimal, and for the most part, FSD handled the task seamlessly.
This experience has been a watershed moment for me. It highlighted how far Tesla has come in the realm of autonomous driving. The advancements are not merely incremental but revolutionary. FSD no longer feels like a futuristic gimmick but a reliable co-pilot capable of navigating complex traffic scenarios with ease.
Tesla’s Edge
Tesla’s commitment to FSD innovation has placed it far ahead of other auto manufacturers in the United States. The level of refinement and capability in the latest FSD is a testament to this. It is not just about keeping pace with traffic; it is about understanding and adapting to it in real-time, a feat that few other systems can match.
As I look to the future, I am excited about the possibilities that FSD holds. This summer, I plan to try other FSD-like systems in China. It will be interesting to compare and contrast their performance with Tesla’s. However, the bar has been set high, and any system that hopes to impress will have to demonstrate a level of sophistication akin to what I have experienced over the past two weeks.
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