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.

reuters.com

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.

8/28/2023

Tesla braces for its first trial involving Autopilot fatality

Tesla Inc is set to defend itself in two upcoming trials against allegations that its Autopilot feature led to fatal accidents, which will test CEO Elon Musk's claims about the technology and could have significant implications for the company's future.

8/30/2023

Tesla ordered by auto regulators to provide data on 'Elon mode' Autopilot configuration

Tesla has been ordered by federal automotive safety regulators to provide extensive data on its driver assistance and driver monitoring systems, including information on the "Elon mode" configuration that allows drivers to use Autopilot without prompts to engage the steering wheel.

8/30/2023

A hidden Tesla feature nicknamed 'Elon mode' is under scrutiny from regulators after a hacker discovered a way to get rid of a prompt to drivers to keep their hands on the wheel

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has ordered Tesla to hand over data regarding a hidden Autopilot mode that allows drivers to go hands-free for an extended period of time, raising concerns about driver inattention and failure to properly supervise the vehicle.

Topics

Posted 8/29/2023, 7:27:00 PM

Tesla faces more questions from feds on Autopilot safety

reuters.com

Relevant topic timeline:

8/1/2023

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

8/28/2023

Tesla braces for its first trial involving Autopilot fatality

8/30/2023

Tesla ordered by auto regulators to provide data on 'Elon mode' Autopilot configuration

8/30/2023

A hidden Tesla feature nicknamed 'Elon mode' is under scrutiny from regulators after a hacker discovered a way to get rid of a prompt to drivers to keep their hands on the wheel