US road safety regulators are facing fresh pressure to re‑examine Tesla’s Full Self‑Driving (FSD) and Autopilot systems more strictly.
A recent investigation in the US flagged at least 43 videos where Tesla drivers appear to be asleep or not paying attention while their cars are moving with FSD or Autopilot turned on. In California, 13 drivers have already been cited for driving in this unsafe way.
US lawmakers have now asked federal authorities to spell out whether Tesla’s current safety measures are enough. Tesla describes FSD and Autopilot as Level 2 driver‑assist systems, which means the driver must stay alert and keep control of the steering at all times. The brand also fits cabin cameras and steering‑wheel sensors to check driver attention.
In practice, many users reportedly cover their eyes with dark glasses or try other tricks so the camera cannot properly track them. That has raised doubts over how well these protections work if drivers choose to misuse the tech.
Separately, the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is already running an engineering analysis on about 3.2 million Tesla vehicles with FSD, the last step before it can push for a recall. For Nepali buyers watching global EV trends, this episode is a reminder that even advanced driver‑assist tech still depends on responsible human drivers.
Writes on vehicle pricing, taxation and the Nepali auto market from ongoing tracking of distributor price lists. Editorial policy.
