Tesla has officially launched its Full Self-Driving (Supervised) feature in Australia, receiving an unexpectedly positive response from the media and the public. This development marks a significant milestone in the adoption of autonomous driving technology in the region. Various Australian and New Zealand media outlets have shown an openness to the technology, contrary to earlier expectations of widespread skepticism.
Despite historical criticism of electric vehicles in Australia, particularly Tesla, the launch has prompted a shift in media narratives. Channel 7, which has been known for its conservative stance on electric vehicles, aired a segment on its “Sunrise” program that featured a favorable review of the Full Self-Driving (Supervised) system. This is particularly noteworthy given the network’s previous focus on negative portrayals of electric vehicles and their drivers.
The media landscape in Australia has often cast electric vehicle drivers as “virtue signalling” or portrayed them negatively due to the perceived lack of contribution to fossil fuel taxes, which significantly inflate petrol prices. However, the recent positive coverage suggests a growing acceptance of electric vehicle technology. A Facebook post related to the Channel 7 broadcast reflected a balanced mix of comments, indicating a division of opinion, but overall a more favorable reception for Tesla’s innovation.
Many commentators expressed excitement about the potential of Full Self-Driving technology, with some highlighting its safety features. One user commented, “A bit like a learner driver — over cautious — but probably better than 60% of Aussie drivers currently on the road.” This sentiment reflects a broader belief that the technology could enhance road safety, especially among less experienced drivers.
Currently, Tesla’s Full Self-Driving system is the only advanced autonomous driving option available in Australia, as there are no competing products from local manufacturers. The absence of a domestic auto industry means that Tesla is leading the charge in this arena. Companies like BYD are expected to introduce their own technologies, such as the “God’s Eye” system, but regulatory hurdles have delayed their rollout in the Australian market.
Adding context to this launch, Tesla’s journey in Australia dates back to 2018, when its left-hand drive Model 3 was introduced. At that time, potential buyers waited in long lines for a brief 90-second experience with the vehicle. Those who ordered in 2016 faced lengthy waits for their deliveries, which raised expectations about the future capabilities of Tesla’s technology.
While some early adopters of Tesla’s Full Self-Driving purchased the feature for their vehicles, reports indicate that it may not function as intended on older hardware versions. This has raised questions among users regarding the future of the technology and its implementation in existing vehicles.
As of now, Australia and New Zealand are the only right-hand drive markets where Full Self-Driving is available. This limited access has created a unique environment for Tesla, allowing it to capture the attention and enthusiasm of consumers eager for innovation.
The conversation surrounding Full Self-Driving extends beyond local borders, with international commentary reflecting a mixture of excitement and caution. Users from the United States and the United Kingdom have shared their experiences with similar technologies, voicing hope and anticipation for wider adoption. They noted that, while not perfect, the technology shows promise and could surpass the average skills of many drivers.
Despite the enthusiasm, concerns remain regarding insurance implications and potential changes in driving behavior. Some users worry that insurance premiums may increase as more autonomous vehicles hit the road, while others believe that the reduction in accidents could lead to lower rates over time.
As the rollout of Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (Supervised) continues, the response from the public and media will be critical in shaping perceptions of this technology. As one commentator noted, “FSD doesn’t need to be perfect, it just needs to be better than the average driver.”
The future of autonomous driving in Australia remains uncertain, but the positive reception of Tesla’s latest feature suggests a significant shift in public sentiment. With ongoing discussions and media coverage expected in the coming days, the narrative surrounding Full Self-Driving technology will likely evolve further. As Tesla continues to lead in innovation, it remains to be seen how the industry will adapt and how consumers will respond to this new era of driving.