Tesla has launched a software update for its vehicles - enabling the cars to have an "autopilot" mode, BBC News reports.

While not fully self-driving, the software means the Model S and new Model X can "automatically steer down the highway, change lanes, and adjust speed in response to traffic".

Tesla chief executive Elon Musk said the autopilot mode was designed to increase driver confidence on the road.

However, Musk said users adopting the software - available in North America from Thursday, October 15- should exercise caution while using it.

"It should not hit pedestrians, hopefully," he told the media. "It should handle them well."

He added that if the car is involved in a collision, the driver is still liable.

Other regions of the world would be updated in the next couple of weeks pending regulatory approval.

The software uses a combination of cameras, radar, ultrasonic sensors and mapping data to determine its position and navigate.

When the car has arrived at its destination, it is able to scan for an available space and park itself.