Tesla airbags will now deploy 70 milliseconds sooner, thanks to its cameras. As part of a new update, the camera array will help the vehicle prepare for a crash by deploying the airbags if it detects an unavoidable collision.
The cameras in a Tesla can now identify the type of impact, estimate when contact will occur, and judge the likely severity. Inflating the airbags 70 milliseconds sooner can make a difference in an accident. Airbags take time to inflate, meaning they may not fill quickly enough to provide maximum protection.
Tesla vehicles will still rely on traditional impact sensors to decide whether airbags need to be deployed.
The feature will be available through a software update, though it’s not yet clear which models or software updates will be included. Tesla released a YouTube video detailing the update.
Tesla already has a strong safety track record, so this update should inspire even more confidence in the brand.
