Tesla's Holiday Update may have more stocking stuffers than initially reported. A new feature has just been found as part of the 2023.44.25.1 holiday update -- Alternate Routes While Driving.
The new feature will dynamically offer alternate route suggestions while driving, which builds on last year's introduction of alternate routes.
Tesla drivers will now be able to look at alternate routes when encountering traffic or construction. Instead of just having three routes to pick from at the start of the trip, the driver can now view alternate routes at any point in time.
How Does It Work?
Accessing this feature is straightforward. While driving, you can tap the map mode button (route icon) at the top right of the display or tap on the next turn indicator at the top of your turn-by-turn directions. This action will switch the map to an overview and request alternate routes from Tesla based on your current location.
The alternate routes are expected to then be displayed on the map in a similar way that they are displayed at the start of a trip. You can tap on a different route, or continue your existing one.
Limitations
This is a great improvement and should help in situations where the navigation system may not be providing the best route. However, it's important to note that alternate routes won't always be displayed on screen as they are with Google Maps. Google Maps will continuously offer alternate routes as you drive, labeling them as ‘1 minute faster,’ or ‘5 minutes slower,’ so that the driver is always aware of how much faster or slower a different route can take.
In Tesla’s implementation, the driver will need to request alternate routes by switching to the map overview.
Other Navigation Improvements
Alongside the Alternate Routes feature, Tesla has been enhancing its navigation capabilities. In the holiday update, drivers will notice that traffic lights and stop signs appear much more prominent on the display. Additionally, the update includes icons for speed camera locations and images for complex turns in some regions.
Haptic Feedback for Forward Collision Warnings
Tesla has also been focusing on safety enhancements. Notably, haptic feedback has been recently introduced to forward collision warnings in China. In addition to a vehicle turning red on the screen and an audible noise, haptic feedback will now be provided via the steering wheel.
It’s unclear whether Tesla will roll out this enhancement to other regions, but as NHTSA pressures Tesla to offer more driver feedback and clearer instructions, we may see Tesla add more of these types of features.
Supported Regions
Alternate Routes While Driving will likely be limited to specific regions. However, if you currently have access to alternate routes, there’s a good chance that you’ll receive this enhancement as well.
Tesla said the Holiday Update would start shipping this week, although, with the NHTSA-related changes, it’s possible the release could be pushed back a few days or even a week. Either way, it shouldn’t be long before we know more about Alternate Routes While Driving and the other features in the holiday update, such as High Fidelity Park Assist.
