Concerns concerning the security of Tesla’s driver assistance software have been raised again following an incident involving a vehicle equipped with the “Full Self-Driving” feature.
This terrifying dashcam video, which the Tesla owner published under the handle FixorFkit, shows the car veering into oncoming traffic to avoid a cyclist. Although the driver’s prompt action prevents a crash, this episode serves as a wake-up call for Tesla’s “Full Self-Driving” feature’s limits.
FixorFkit voiced his dissatisfaction after the event, calling the Full Self-Driving (FSD) experience “one of the most horrific drives.” To ensure safety, drivers must maintain vigilance and be prepared to take control at any time, even with Tesla’s claims of advanced autonomy.
The FSD component of Tesla’s Autopilot software has drawn criticism from safety activists and regulatory bodies. Federal investigations have shown a connection between many injuries and fatalities caused by Tesla’s driver assistance software, noting incidents in which drivers were not paying enough attention to the task of driving.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently released data highlighting ongoing fears about Tesla’s handling of safety-related issues. The NHTSA found persistent problems with driver attention and involvement despite recalling two million Autopilot-equipped cars.
The NHTSA’s submission emphasises how urgently Tesla must address safety issues and improve its driver monitoring systems. The increasing use of autonomous driving features is expected to increase the danger of accidents caused by distracted drivers, which will make it difficult for regulators and automakers to address these issues.
Tesla’s ambitious plans for autonomous driving, including the deployment of “robotaxis,” rest on the effectiveness of its driver assistance system. However, recent events and regulatory scrutiny make it abundantly clear how crucial it is to prioritize safety and accountability when developing and implementing autonomous systems. Safety and legal compliance must always come first, even as Tesla and other automakers strive to improve driver assistance technologies.
