NHTSA Questions Tesla Over ‘Elon Mode’ That Stops Autopilot From Demanding Your Attention

The NHTSA has requested extensive data from Tesla regarding its Autopilot system, including information about a configuration known as "Elon mode" that eliminates reminders for drivers to keep their hands on the wheel.

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Relevant topic timeline:

8/1/2023

NHTSA probes 280,000 new Teslas over loss of steering control

Main topic: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating 280,000 Tesla vehicles over reports of loss of steering control and power steering. Key points: - NHTSA is investigating 280,000 Tesla vehicles due to reports of loss of steering control and power steering malfunctioning. - The investigation is focused on the 2023 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles. - The malfunctioning is often accompanied by driver-facing messages indicating reduced or disabled power steering assist. - NHTSA received 12 complaints from owners, prompting the investigation. - It is unclear if the investigation is related to Tesla's advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). - The preliminary evaluation is the first step towards a formal investigation to determine if there is an unreasonable safety risk. - If necessary, NHTSA may demand a recall, which would require upgrading the probe to an engineering analysis.

8/29/2023

Tesla faces more questions from feds on Autopilot safety

The U.S. auto safety regulator has demanded an explanation from Tesla for a software change in its Autopilot system that allows drivers to keep their hands off the wheel for longer, raising concerns about driver inattention and collisions.

8/31/2023

Federal regulators order Tesla to provide extensive data on ‘Elon mode’ hack to autopilot feature

Tesla's secret hands-free feature, known as "Elon mode," has raised concerns from federal regulators, who have ordered the company to provide data on its driver assistance and monitoring systems, as the feature allows users to use autopilot without keeping their hands on the steering wheel.

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Posted 8/30/2023, 2:35:00 PM