Tesla has introduced a substantial software update in China, bringing several new features with a particular emphasis on navigation improvements. While this update is based on the 2024 build, it could be the last of its kind before the arrival of the anticipated 2025.2 update.
The most notable change is in the vehicle’s navigation system, which now offers drivers increased flexibility over route selection. Previously, the vehicle relied on a remote online routing system, taking into account various factors like traffic and road conditions. With the latest update, Tesla is providing drivers with new options to customize their route preferences.
New Route Options: More Control for Drivers
The update introduces several modes that allow users to choose how their routes are determined:
Fastest Time: The default setting, which remains similar to the previous routing system, prioritizes speed and efficiency.
Least Congestion: Aimed at minimizing traffic, this option selects routes with less congestion, even if it means a longer drive. This leverages Tesla’s integration with real-time traffic data to ensure smoother trips.
Prefer Highways: This feature favors highways for quicker travel, but some users have suggested a possible “Avoid Highways” option for future updates to accommodate drivers who prefer less trafficked, scenic routes.
Lowest Tolls: This option seeks the fastest route with the lowest toll costs, a useful addition for drivers who wish to reduce travel expenses associated with toll roads.
Although the highly requested “Avoid Highways” feature is still absent, the new options significantly enhance route customization, allowing drivers more control over their driving experience. While Tesla’s Chinese vehicles use Baidu maps, these improvements are tied to the Tesla backend, suggesting that they may be rolled out to other regions in the future.
Service Area Enhancements: Convenient Stops on the Road
In addition to routing improvements, Tesla has also enhanced its service area features. When approaching a highway service area in China, the vehicle will now display an on-screen prompt that directs drivers to nearby restaurants, convenience stores, and charging stations within the service area. This feature also highlights popular chain restaurants, providing an added level of convenience for long-distance drivers.
For those who prefer a less intrusive experience, the service area pop-up can be disabled in the vehicle’s settings under Vehicle Options > Navigation > Service Areas. At present, this feature is exclusive to China, though there’s potential for it to expand to other markets in the future.
Additionally, the update introduces the much-anticipated Actually Smart Summon feature for Tesla vehicles equipped with Enhanced Autopilot (EAP) or Full Self-Driving (FSD) capabilities. This feature improves the vehicle’s ability to autonomously park and navigate in tight spaces.
Supercharger Bollards: Streamlining the Charging Experience
Tesla has also addressed a practical issue with the Supercharger stations in China. Certain Superchargers are equipped with ground posts or bollards that prevent non-charging vehicles from blocking charging spots. Previously, drivers needed to use the Tesla app to lower the bollard before they could park. With this update, a button to unlock the bollard now appears automatically in the vehicle’s navigation screen when approaching the Supercharger, allowing drivers to lower the bollard from inside the car itself.
Looking Ahead: A Global Rollout?
While this update is tailored to the Chinese market, many of its features—especially the navigation improvements and service area functions—could have broader appeal. Tesla enthusiasts outside of China are hopeful that these enhancements will be adapted for use in other regions, including North America and Europe. As always, Tesla continues to push the boundaries of automotive software, and these new capabilities mark another step toward refining the driving experience for customers around the world.
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