By Tesla is recalling a staggering number of vehicles in the U.S., totaling over 2 million, to enhance safety measures within its Autopilot system. This move follows concerns raised by a federal safety regulator regarding the system’s capability to ensure driver attention and prevent misuse, potentially leading to an increased risk of accidents.
The recall, seemingly encompassing almost all Tesla vehicles on U.S. roads, aims to address the issue of driver inattentiveness while using Autopilot. The concern highlighted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) prompted a comprehensive investigation spanning two years, evaluating the electric automaker’s measures to ensure driver focus.
During a U.S. House hearing, Acting NHTSA Administrator Ann Carlson commended Tesla for agreeing to the recall, emphasizing instances where drivers were not fully attentive while utilizing the system. The safety probe initiated in August 2021 was triggered by reports of fatal accidents involving the use of Autopilot, prompting swift action from the agency.
In parallel, Transport Canada announced a recall of 193,000 Tesla vehicles to tackle the Autopilot issue. However, it remains uncertain if China will request a similar recall.
Tesla’s Autopilot system, designed for lane control, acceleration, and braking, includes features like Autosteer, which maintains speed, distance, and lane position. Despite disagreements with NHTSA’s analysis, Tesla plans to implement an over-the-air software update to reinforce existing controls and alerts, urging drivers to maintain continuous attention while Autosteer is engaged.
Senators Ed Markey and Richard Blumenthal highlighted the necessity and overdue nature of the recall, urging continued investigations by NHTSA to ensure safety and urging Tesla to stop misleading drivers and prioritize public safety.
NHTSA confirmed its commitment to monitoring Tesla’s corrective actions while keeping the investigation into Autopilot open.
Tesla did not provide specifics regarding the global extent of the recall or detailed information about the new safety measures when questioned.
