The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an investigation into approximately 2.6 million Tesla vehicles equipped with the company’s full self-driving driver assistance technology. This investigation comes after a complaint alleged that the use of Tesla’s “Actually Smart Summon” feature led to a crash.
Background
The NHTSA received a complaint about the Actually Smart Summon feature leading to a crash and reviewed at least three media reports of similar incidents. In all four cases, the Tesla vehicle failed to detect posts or parked vehicles. Despite this, Tesla has not reported any crashes during the use of the feature, although rules mandate reporting for crashes involving automated driving systems on publicly accessible roads.
What is Actually Smart Summon?
Actually Smart Summon is a feature that allows users to remotely move their vehicle towards themselves or to another nearby location, such as a parking lot, through Tesla’s phone app.
Investigation Details
The NHTSA will investigate the capabilities of Actually Smart Summon, including:
- Evaluating the feature’s ability to detect obstacles
- Assessing the top speed that a vehicle can attain while the feature is engaged
- Reviewing the restrictions in place for use of the feature on public roads
- Examining the line of sight requirements for using the feature
Significance
This investigation is significant, as it is the second probe by the NHTSA into Tesla in less than six months. In October, the regulator opened an investigation into 2.4 million Tesla vehicles following reports of four crashes where the company’s full self-driving (FSD) partial driving automation system was engaged.
Previous Investigation
The previous investigation found that Tesla vehicles experienced crashes after entering areas of reduced roadway visibility with FSD engaged. The reduced visibility was caused by factors such as sun glare, fog, or airborne dust. In one of the crashes, the vehicle struck and killed a pedestrian.
Ongoing Monitoring
The NHTSA will continue to monitor the situation and evaluate the safety of Tesla’s automated driving systems. This investigation highlights the importance of ensuring the safe development and deployment of advanced driver assistance technologies.