Tesla Ordered to Turn Over Data on Its Safety-Disabling 'Elon Mode' Autopilot Feature

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating Tesla's "Elon Mode" feature, which allegedly allows the driver-assistance system to take control for an extended period of time, potentially leading to driver inattention and failure to supervise Autopilot.

gizmodo.com

Relevant topic timeline:

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.

8/29/2023

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.

9/16/2023

Musk Stubbornly Rejected LiDAR Despite Engineers' Safety Concerns About Autopilot Reliance on Cameras Alone

Tesla CEO Elon Musk would frequently berate his engineers after Autopilot's driver assistance technology performed dangerously during test drives, highlighting his stubbornness in how the technology should be built, as revealed in Walter Isaacson's biography on Musk.