Tesla's self-driving ambitions are under scrutiny again, with a new investigation revealing a shocking number of incidents. But are these accidents a result of technological flaws or human error?
Federal regulators are taking action as they uncover a series of alarming incidents involving Tesla's full-self driving technology. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has received a staggering 58 reports of Tesla vehicles running red lights and driving on the wrong side of the road while in full self-driving mode. This has led to crashes and injuries, leaving many wondering if the technology is truly ready for the roads.
And here's where it gets controversial: Tesla's Autopilot technology was recently deemed partially responsible for a fatal 2019 crash in Florida, resulting in a $240 million payout. But the company insists that its full self-driving system, known as FSD, is not autonomous and requires driver supervision.
The investigation covers nearly 3 million Tesla vehicles equipped with FSD, which comes in two levels. The Level 2 software demands driver attention, while Tesla continues to test a more advanced version that aims to eliminate the need for driver intervention. This promise of a fully autonomous driving experience has been a long-standing goal of CEO Elon Musk.
The FSD feature has been a hot topic, with previous probes linking it to injuries and fatalities. Despite Tesla's warnings about driver readiness, the system's capabilities have raised concerns. Additionally, Tesla's 'summon' feature, which allows cars to pick up drivers, is also under the NHTSA's microscope due to parking lot incidents. And that's not all—the company is also being investigated for potential delays in crash reporting.
With recalls a possible outcome, Musk is under pressure to prove the safety and reliability of Tesla's driver-assistance features. He boldly claims that hundreds of thousands of self-driving Teslas and robotaxis will hit the roads by the end of next year. But is this a promise too far?
As the investigation unfolds, the debate rages on: Are these incidents a result of over-reliance on technology or a lack of human vigilance? Share your thoughts below!
