Model S Software/Firmware Updates

Moved my post here:

Looks like there were a few changes:

 

Ah darn... I thought I was going to be the first to post this.

 

I hope they post the features added and/or bugs fixed. Would really be nice to see the errata of known issues, but I highly doubt they would be that open.

 

I didn't see this posted anywhere else, but MSN Auto confirmed that the update adds creep:
Tesla Model S Adds 'Creep' Feature 'Over the Air' - MSN Autos

 

I'm very curious as well. I'd like to know if during the install process that TM makes the user aware of the differences they'll see with the new firmware.

Something like "With this update you'll notice blah, blah, blah, feature upgrade and here's how to use it. Also you'll notice that we fixed the blah, blah, blah, bug fixes, please let us know if you encounter any issues with this firmware update by contacting us at [email protected]"

 

Picked up my MSP last Wed and was told that it had just been updated with latest software version 1.7.36. No creep yet.

 

Since he took receipt after the update was installed, he likely wouldn't have seen it. Maybe the update takes you to a webpage with the release notes...or Tesla sends you an email...

 

There is supposed to be a notification on the display when a new update is available.

 

Right, a notification saying "A New Software Update Is Available..." but I haven't heard Tesla say anything about release notes. That's what I'm referring to...and it's likely too long to just display in a simple onscreen message.

 

This was posted on Telsa forums (http://www.teslamotors.com/forum/forums/vin-74):

Rated Range (Functional Improvement)
Your Model S provides two Range estimates to help drivers determine driving distance. These range estimates are called Projected Range and Rated Range.

The Projected Range estimate predicts the car's range based on the driver's current driving state. In other words, Projected Range predicts how far the car can travel if the driver were to continue driving in their current style. This number is calculated by looking at energy use over the last 30 miles and assumes consistent energy use until the battery is depleted.

The Rated Range estimate predicts the car's range based on standardized range metrics set by the EPA. When your Model S was delivered, the Rated Range was based on the EPA's 2-cycle test, which yields approximately 300 miles of range after fully charging in Max Range mode. With the new software release, Model S will begin using the EPA's more aggressive 5-cycle test to predict the Rated Range. After a full Max Range mode charge, your Model S will now display approximately 265 - 269 miles of Rated Range.

It is important to note that the energy storage and driving capabilities of your Model S have not changed. Your car is simply using a more aggressive algorithm to calculate Rated Range to match the EPA's 5-cycle test. In practice, this means your Rated Range will be easier to 'beat' with efficient driving and will be more accurate given spirited driving.

Customize Range Display (New Feature)
The available range of your Model S is displayed in three locations: on the Instrument Panel while driving, on the Touchscreen's charging screen and on the Instrument Panel's charging screen. Your car currently displays the Rated Range in all these locations. With the new software, you can now elect to display the Projected or Rated Range. To customize this setting, use the Touchscreen to navigate to Controls>Settings>Units & Format.

Vehicle Entry / Exit (New Feature)
When approaching a parked Model S, the Instrument Panel screen and Touchscreen will turn on when any door is opened and the Media Player will begin playing whatever content was previously selected. The volume will be low until the driver enters the car and closes the driver's door. The volume will then ramp up to the previously set level. On exit, the volume ramps down when the driver door is opened and both screens remain on until the last door is closed. When all doors are closed, the Media Player stops and the screens turn off.

 

they REALLY need to have release notes somewhere - make it only accessible to owners or whatever, but it's got to be there. I'd hate to not know what's different after a software update.