This month, Tesla will begin delivering the first of its new Model Ys from its factory on the outskirts of Berlin. They can monitor drivers' hearts, the chief engineer says.
In the future, the Tesla Model Y will be able to monitor the driver's heart. Specifically, their heart function. This will be possible because Tesla will soon equip the cars with a 4D radar system that is under development.
Lars Moravy, Tesla's chief engineer, discussed the development of the system in an interview with Auto Bild .
The radar system must detect the presence and size of all passengers in the cars. It must also distinguish between adults and children. This way, Tesla can also take into account the strength of the airbag in the event of an accident.
Moravy mentions that the radar is designed to be sensitive enough to detect heartbeats. Specifically, Tesla's long-term goal is to detect heart attacks.
– The radar is quite sensitive, and there is an implementation that allows you to observe your heartbeat.
Tesla will keep an eye on drivers' hearts
– We hope that one day the technology will be advanced enough to give us the ability to detect an impending heart attack and then immediately alert an ambulance.
– We are constantly working to improve the feeling of safety while driving, Moravy tells the newspaper.
In the new Model Y, the traditional turn signal stalk is also back behind the steering wheel. But there's a good reason for that, Moravy explains.
It is particularly feedback from European Tesla owners that has made Tesla change its mind. Several Europeans are frustrated that the turn signal switch 'follows around' at roundabouts. That is, because the function is located on the steering wheel.
– The feedback from Europe was very clear. Europeans missed physical contacts , especially at roundabouts. And when customers complain, we respond – that's one of our greatest strengths at Tesla, says the chief engineer.
In terms of general improvements to the Model Y, Moravy highlights that the Model Y has become more efficient, has increased range and increased comfort, as well as improved connectivity with 5G compatibility and multiple antennas so that the car can better receive different signals.
– Number one for me is absolute efficiency. We have increased the range by about ten percent – without making major changes to the drivetrain.
– Number two is the driving experience. Overall, the car has become much more comfortable – not only in terms of the suspension, but also in terms of the sound experience and the way the car feels.
– Point number three is better connectivity. The new Model Y is 5G compatible and equipped with multiple antennas. This improves reception and thus the overall experience in the car, says Moravy.
Tesla's production quality has been hotly debated in the past, and the chief engineer is happy to acknowledge that.
– The factory in Germany in particular has helped us a lot in improving our production quality. We have been able to recruit some good engineers here.
– Both in vehicle development and in production processes. We learned a lot in the process, he says.
