Tesla software 8.0 update can keep your EV cool for a year

Tesla's updated software suite, version 8.0, is going to be sent out tonight using the automaker's over-the-air service. But not everyone will get it right away. Tesla CEO Elon Musk said on Twitter that this release will be "gradual" to prevent problems.

V8.0 starts downloading tonight. Release will be gradual to make sure there aren't small regressions. Many car configs, many environments.

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) September 21, 2016

Version 8.0 is a big change from version 7.x, as we heard when the new software was undergoing beta testing over the summer. Today, Musk called 8.0, "a major overhaul on almost every level" and said that his, "favorite new feature is the always-on max temp control for keeping kids and pets safe from overheating." This is a way to stop the car from getting too hot (higher than 105 degrees Fahrenheit). A fully charged battery has enough juice to keep a car from overheating "for up to a year," Musk wrote, adding that it isn't always able to detect babies and pets.

Tesla keeps temp below 40C/105F by automatically venting cabin & turning on AC when needed. Can do this for up to a year on a full charge.

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) September 21, 2016

The next update, version 8.1, will also allow you to set a minimum temperature, to keep the car from getting too cold.

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