Tesla has officially launched its Actually Smart Summon (ASS) feature in China, expanding the availability of this technology to the region after its introduction in the US, Europe, and the Middle East. Announced via a Weibo post, the feature allows Tesla vehicles to autonomously drive to the driver, enhancing the convenience of vehicle retrieval from parking spaces.
The Actually Smart Summon is part of Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) and Enhanced Autopilot (EAP) software packages. It is not available to owners using the basic Autopilot (BAP) software. In China, the cost for the FSD package is RMB 64,000 yuan ($8,790), while the EAP package costs RMB 32,000 yuan. Tesla CEO Elon Musk originally proposed the feature two years ago, emphasizing that it relies solely on Tesla Vision, utilizing cameras rather than traditional radar sensors.
While the launch of Actually Smart Summon in China positions Tesla alongside local automakers, many of whom offer similar smart summon features in their electric vehicles, Tesla is promoting the availability of the feature with additional incentives. Customers purchasing Tesla vehicles through trade-ins are eligible for 90 days of free EAP access. Additionally, Tesla recently offered a chance to win a visit to its Shanghai factory for those purchasing through trade-ins before December 3.
Despite the growing competition from local EV manufacturers, Tesla’s vehicles remain highly popular in China. In November, the company sold a record 73,490 vehicles in the country, marking its best performance this year. In the first 11 months of 2024, Tesla’s retail sales in China reached 574,175 units, reflecting an 8.77% year-on-year increase. The company’s Shanghai factory plays a crucial role in both local production and exports, contributing significantly to Tesla’s success in the Chinese market.
