Man Uses Tesla Summon to Trigger Gate Sensor After Accidentally Parking In Wrong Place

In the age of innovation, where electric vehicles (EVs) continue to redefine our relationship with automobiles, one recent incident using Tesla Model Y's Summon feature has captivated the imagination of Tesla enthusiasts and curious onlookers alike. Twitter user Jacky Heshi shared a remarkable video accompanied by the caption, "Accidentally parked in a no after-hours access parkade, used Tesla Summon to trigger the gate sensor. See below for the car’s point of view."

Accidently parked in a no after hours access parkade, used Tesla Summon to trigger the gate sensor.

See below for car’s point of view pic.twitter.com/esPkKLd2Wl
— Jacky Heshi (@JackyHeshi) September 16, 2023

This short clip not only demonstrates the ingenuity of Tesla's technology, but also raises intriguing questions about the capabilities of modern EVs and the responsibilities of their owners. In fact, something similar happened in 2019, when the Tesla Model 3 got out of a tight garage using forward and backward Summon.

Unlocking the Parking Puzzle: A Tesla's Perspective

In the video, we witness an inventive solution to a common parking predicament. The Tesla vehicle, parked in an area where access was restricted after hours, astutely employs Tesla's Summon feature. As the video unfolds, the Tesla backs up autonomously, moving closer to the gate with uncanny precision. The car's advanced sensors detect the gate's presence, prompting it to open just wide enough to permit the vehicle's escape.

Something like this happened to me several years ago in Washington DC, when I parked my car, but couldn't access it after hours, since the parking lot was already closed. I had to call a friend to pick me up and and returned to the parking lot the following morning to get my vehicle.

This unexpected and resourceful use of Tesla's Summon feature not only showcases the flexibility of electric vehicle technology, but also prompts us to ponder the possibilities and responsibilities that come with it.

My Opinion:

From a journalistic perspective, this incident exemplifies the boundless potential of Tesla's cutting-edge technology. It's a testament to the innovation and convenience that electric vehicle manufacturers like Tesla bring to our daily lives, all while minimizing the environmental impact.

However, while we celebrate the clever use of Tesla's Summon feature, we must tread carefully in the realm of remote vehicle control. As the journalist behind this report, I must emphasize the need for responsible use of features like Tesla's Summon. While this incident demonstrates a creative solution to an unintended parking situation, it also highlights potential concerns.

Navigating the Future of Electric Mobility

This remarkable parking maneuver raises several key considerations:

1. Connectivity Challenges: The user who posted this video likely had a stable internet connection, enabling them to use Summon effectively. However, not all situations may offer the same level of connectivity. Imagine being in an underground garage with weak or no signal. In such scenarios, Summon might not work reliably. This underscores the need for a backup plan when relying on these features.

2. Ethical Considerations: While this instance was a harmless, innovative solution to a parking problem, there is the potential for misuse. What if individuals started using Summon to access restricted areas intentionally? Ensuring that the technology is not exploited for illegal or unethical purposes is crucial.

3. Safety Measures: Tesla and other EV manufacturers must continue to improve the safety features surrounding autonomous and remote control capabilities. This includes robust authentication measures to prevent unauthorized access and remote control.

4. Public Perception: Incidents like this can shape public perception of electric vehicles and their advanced features. Highlighting the responsible and practical applications of such technology is essential to build trust among consumers and regulators.

A Glimpse into the Future

While it's impressive to witness the creative solutions that Tesla owners can devise using features like Summon, it's equally important to exercise caution and responsibility. Technology should enhance our lives and make them more convenient, but not at the expense of safety or ethics. As we move into an era of increasingly autonomous vehicles, it's crucial to strike a balance between innovation and responsibility, ensuring that the future of transportation remains safe, ethical, and beneficial for all.

I think in the grand tapestry of electric mobility, this incident serves as a small yet captivating thread—a glimpse into the future of how electric vehicles, with their advanced features, may continue to revolutionize our everyday experiences.

Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebok, Linkedin and Youtube.