Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently implied his plans to the full self-driving technology on Twitter. It gained the attention of The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The Tweet in question was on December 31 when CEO Musk replied “agreed” to Tesla enthusiast @WholeMarsBlog’s suggestion about disabling the safeguard on the FSD Beta. See the Tweets below:
Steering wheel nag
The steering wheel nag is a driver monitoring safeguard installed in Tesla’s FSD-compatible cars. The system continuously monitors the drivers’ attention on driving while using the ‘Level 2’ advanced driver-assistance system.
That said, removing the safeguard would indeed be alarming, especially for the US safety regulators.
NHTSA’s investigation
The Verge’s report confirmed, citing an NHTSA spokesperson, that the agency has already contacted Tesla about Musk’s tweet. It must also be noted that the move is relevant to the extensive investigation of Tesla’s FSD.
Moreover, numerous accidents involving stationary emergency vehicles have been connected to Tesla’s Autopilot system, which is currently being investigated.
FSD limitations
The FSD Beta is currently accessible to customers in North America who bought the feature. It allows drivers to use Tesla’s Level 2′ advanced driver-assistance system on local roads and city streets.
Safety experts and regulators have long urged Tesla to improve its Level 2′ advanced driver-assistance system. As of now, drivers need to give their complete attention to driving the car, despite using the FSD feature.
That said, the electric automaker ensures drivers are always prepared to take control by using torque sensors in the steering wheel. Some people have managed to manipulate the system, though. According to Consumer Reports, drivers can use a heavy chain to imitate hands on the wheel.
Tesla’s FSD Beta has gained many critics as its availability expanded. Along with the NHTSA probe, the US Justice Department is also investigating the matter. Per the report, a lawsuit against Tesla alleges that it deceived customers regarding the FSD features.
Musk has consistently stated that the FSD Beta will soon be totally autonomous despite the controversies. It would not be surprising that Tesla continues to pursue this technology as it is essential to Musk’s goal of a driverless future.
