Tesla is initiating a recall for over two million cars following findings by the US regulator that its Autopilot driver assistance system has a partial defect. This decision comes after a two-year investigation into crashes involving vehicles equipped with Autopilot, which occurred during its use. Tesla has responded by announcing a software update to address the issue, which will be delivered “over the air.”
The recall encompasses nearly every Tesla sold in the US since the introduction of the Autopilot feature in 2015. Although Autopilot is designed to assist with steering, acceleration, and braking, it is essential to note that it cannot function without user input, despite its name.
The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) attributed the recall to a flaw in Autopilot’s driver monitoring system, responsible for detecting the driver’s attentiveness. This monitoring system is intended to verify factors like whether the driver has their hands on the wheel. However, Tesla acknowledged that the controls of the system “may not be sufficient to prevent driver misuse.”
The NHTSA stated its intention to continue monitoring the software even after the update is implemented. This development follows a recent statement by a former Tesla employee to the BBC, expressing concerns about the technology’s safety for use on public roads.
This recall marks the second instance this year where Tesla vehicles are affected by a recall, underscoring the ongoing efforts to address and rectify potential safety issues in their fleet.
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