2015 Tesla Model S: New Safety Tech Revealed, Including Auto Lane Change

Tesla has today revealed not only a new all-wheel-drive version of its Model S sedan, but also a number of key new safety features.

In production already for the 2015 model year, the enhanced Model S sedan’s new tech will even include (nearly) autonomous lane-changing.

The new system forms part of an upgrade that allows drivers to go hands-free while cruising - although a human tap on the indicator will still be needed to initiate that automated lane-change function.

The ability to maintain lane position and automatically brake or accelerate is no longer a brand-new technology, but Tesla founder Elon Musk believes his company’s take on the concept is significantly more advanced than its rivals.

The autonomous lane changing, for one, is a feature offered with no other production car right now.

"Once we upload the software over the next two or three months, the Model S will have the most sophisticated driver assistance or autonomous functions of any [production] car on the road,” Tesla founder Elon Musk said at today’s unveiling.