Tesla to enhance self-parking and summon capabilities, says Elon Musk

Tesla's full self-driving (FSD) software is still under development.

Tesla Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Elon Musk has said the company will soon enable its cars to drop passengers at their destination and then autonomously find a parking spot. When users are ready to leave, they will be able to summon the vehicle back using their phone.

"In the near future, your Tesla will drop you off at the store entrance and then go find a parking spot. When you are ready to exit the store, just tap Summon on your phone and the car will come to you," Musk wrote on X on October 10.

In the near future, your Tesla will drop you off at the store entrance and then go find a parking spot.

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When you’re ready to exit the store, just tap Summon on your phone and the car will come to you. https://t.co/7oUEk9Bb0H

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 10, 2025

Tesla already offers partial versions of these features through its Autopark and Smart Summon functions. The current Autopark system allows a vehicle to automatically parallel or perpendicular park under specific conditions, while Summon enables owners to move the car forward or backward remotely using the Tesla app. Smart Summon goes a step further, letting the car navigate short distances in a parking lot to reach the owner.

However, these systems have limitations. They generally work only in defined environments, such as private parking lots and driveways, require clear line markings, and can be inconsistent in obstacle detection.

Musk's post suggests a more advanced iteration of the technology, capable of fully autonomous navigation from a drop-off point to an available parking space without driver supervision. Such functionality would mark a major leap from current semi-autonomous systems and could make Tesla the first automaker to deploy large-scale self-parking capability in real-world conditions.

Tesla's full self-driving (FSD) software, still under development and limited by regulatory approvals, is expected to form the backbone of this enhanced feature. The company has been testing 'Actually Smart Summon', an upgraded version of Smart Summon, in select markets through software beta releases.

Other automakers, including Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Hyundai, have also been developing automated parking systems integrated with advanced driver assistance suites. Mercedes offers Level 4-ready automated parking at some locations in Germany, but widespread use remains restricted by regulations.

Tesla has not specified a timeline for the rollout of its improved Summon and parking features.