QUOTE(Xenopher @ Aug 22 2025, 03:40 PM)
It's by vision recognition, and feeding into program's algorithm for decisions. For me, AI means the decision is coming from the result of a prediction model that is trained thru large number of similar and relevant data, with no direct program's algorithm involved (at least not in FSD case, LLM or any end-to-end AI model).
(Note: I'm not an expert in this topic so please take my opinion with a grain of salt)
https://www.regami.solutions/post/autonomou...s%20with%20time.
Extract from link above
How Tesla Autopilot uses an AI-Powered Vision System
Tesla has set itself apart by embracing a full-vision strategy in autonomous driving as opposed to incorporating LiDAR, typical in other driverless platforms. Tesla uses eight cameras with high resolution strategically located on the car in its Full Self-Driving (FSD) system, giving a vision of 360 degrees. Deep-learning models that are part of Tesla interpret and understand visual information and make instant judgments about how to drive.
This is where edge computing comes in, as Tesla's onboard computer processes information locally, eliminating the need for cloud connectivity and ensuring faster, more precise decision-making. This enables the vision system to process and react to challenging driving situations in real-time, even with limited internet coverage.
Device engineering is the driving force for Tesla, since the firm develops and refines hardware such as cameras, sensors, and the FSD chip to work harmoniously with its AI software to make the vision system run at maximum efficiency.
The computer vision system powered by AI works like human sight. Rather than relying on costly LiDAR sensors, Tesla's software learns in real time from hundreds of millions of miles of driving data. The neural network that powers Tesla's Autopilot is trained from large datasets that are harvested from Tesla cars all over the globe, enabling it to enhance lane detection, object identification, and path planning capabilities with time.
Tesla vision system incorporates several important aspects that lead to its autonomous capabilities:
Neural Network-Based Perception: Can accurately identify cars, pedestrians, traffic lights, and road signs.
Vision-Only Strategy: Reads camera feed to define the vehicle's location and move about safely without external sensors.
Self-Learning Models: Learns through repeated software update cycles via real-world driving feedback.
Real-World Benefits of Tesla's Vision System
Tesla's artificial intelligence-based vision system offers some concrete advantages which enhance safety, efficiency, as well as ease of driving. These benefits place Tesla at the vanguard of autonomous driving, setting new levels of AI-led automation.
1. Greater Safety & Crash Avoidance
One of the greatest advantages of Tesla's vision system is that it avoids accidents. Autopilot constantly monitors the road for potential threats, relying on AI to anticipate and avoid hazards. The system is capable of activating Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) should something suddenly block the path, making collisions less likely.
Besides, Tesla's forward-collision warning system uses the vision system to scan the road ahead for cars and warn the driver of potential hazards. This system considerably enhances road safety by responding quicker than human reflexes under perilous situations.
2. Adaptive Cruise Control & Lane-Keeping Assistance
Tesla's Autopilot employs a vision system powered by AI to facilitate Traffic-Aware Cruise Control (TACC) and Autosteer, which adjust speed and lane position according to the traffic situation. Unlike legacy cruise control, Tesla's adaptive system adjusts speed dynamically based on surrounding cars' behavior.
Lane-keeping support keeps the vehicle in the center of its lane, even on turns. The vision system reads lane markings and adjusts in real-time, thereby cutting driver fatigue and overall driving comfort.