Tesla to push software updates to its cars

San Francisco

CARS typically lose value over time as features become outdated. Tesla Motors Inc, the Silicon Valley carmaker, actually adds capabilities to its vehicles.

How? By pushing software updates to customers of its all-electric Model S sedan, similar to how Apple Inc upgrades its operating systems. Last Thursday, chief executive officer Elon Musk said that Tesla would improve its system with a "range assurance application" and enhanced trip planning. In a few months, it will push out a version 7.0 of the car's software including an overhaul to the user interface and computerised steering in specific circumstances, he said.