Tesla's Latest Autopilot Problem Requires Immediate Attention

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【Summary】Tesla is under scrutiny from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) over its Autopilot system. The NHTSA has issued a "special order" to address concerns about a possible workaround that allows drivers to operate their vehicles for extended periods without prompting to apply torque to the steering wheel. Tesla has submitted a confidential response, and investigations into other aspects of Tesla's products and CEO Elon Musk are ongoing.

FutureCar Staff Aug 31, 2023 4:43 PM PT

Tesla's Latest Autopilot Problem Requires Immediate Attention

Tesla Inc. is currently under increased scrutiny from federal regulators regarding its driver-assistance system, Autopilot. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a "special order" to Tesla, expressing concerns about a potential workaround that allows drivers to operate their vehicles without applying torque to the steering wheel.

In a letter dated July 26 and posted on the agency's website on August 29, the NHTSA requested a response from Tesla by August 25 to address the possibility of this feature being used to bypass driver monitoring. The agency wants to ensure that drivers remain alert and ready to take full control of the vehicle.

Tesla submitted a confidential reply to the NHTSA in time to meet the deadline. However, the company has not yet provided a public comment on the matter.

This inquiry by the NHTSA follows a June CNBC report about an Autopilot setting that allows drivers to keep their hands off the wheel for an extended period. This setting has been nicknamed "Elon mode" by an online security researcher.

Tesla's official website states that the Autopilot software is meant to be used with a fully attentive driver who keeps their hands on the wheel and is prepared to take over control at any moment.

The Autopilot probe is one of several investigations launched by the NHTSA in 2021, targeting Tesla, its products, and its CEO, Elon Musk. Federal regulators are also examining potential issues with Tesla's seat belts, steering wheels, and other driver-assistance features.