Why the Tesla Model X’s doors open and close automatically

When Elon Musk introduced the Tesla Model X, the crowd oohed and aahed when he revealed that the car could open as you approach.

At first glance, having front doors that open and close on their own seemed needlessly complicated — just one more thing to break. But now that Tesla has unveiled its autonomous vehicle plans, it all makes sense.

Part of Elon Musk’s grand plan is to have his cars be able to drop its owner off at their destination, then able to go park themselves somewhere else. With the Model X, not only will the car be able to park itself, it’ll open and close the door for you, too — and it’s been hiding in plain sight all along.

Well played, Elon.