Popular tech YouTuber Marques Brownlee, also known as MKBHD, has ranked Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology as the best among various assisted driving systems. In a recent video, Brownlee tested FSD technology from Tesla, as well as other systems from Ford, General Motors, Mercedes Benz, and BMW.
Testing and Ranking
The testing was conducted between May and December 2024, and the systems were ranked using a SABCD ranking system. While Ford, Mercedes, and BMW’s systems were ranked as C-tier, General Motors’ Supercruise was ranked as B-tier. Tesla’s FSD, on the other hand, received an A-tier rating after being tested on the company’s Model 3 sedan and Cybertruck electric pickup.
Key Features of Tesla’s FSD
According to Brownlee, Tesla’s FSD works on more roads than the other systems and can even navigate out of a parking lot on its own. In contrast, the other systems mostly only work on highways. However, Brownlee also noted that Tesla’s FSD is not perfect and has some room for improvement, citing issues such as skittishness and outdated speed limits.
Importance and Future Developments
The ranking is significant, as it highlights the current state of assisted driving technology in the automotive industry. Tesla CEO Elon Musk has expressed optimism about the company’s FSD technology, stating that it will achieve vehicle autonomy in future versions. In fact, Musk has announced plans to deploy self-driving Model 3 and Model Y vehicles in Texas and California for ride-hail in 2025.
Safety Probes and Concerns
However, Tesla’s FSD technology has also been the subject of safety probes and concerns. In October, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened an investigation into 2.4 million Tesla vehicles following reports of four crashes where FSD was engaged. The regulator identified reduced roadway visibility as a contributing factor in these crashes, which were caused by sun glare, fog, or airborne dust. More recently, NHTSA opened another probe into 2.6 million Tesla vehicles equipped with FSD technology, following a complaint alleging that the “Actually Smart Summon” feature led to a crash.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Tesla’s FSD technology has been ranked as the best among assisted driving systems, it is not without its imperfections and concerns. As the technology continues to develop and improve, it is essential to address these concerns and ensure the safety of all road users. With ongoing investments and innovations in the field, the future of autonomous driving looks promising, but it is crucial to prioritize safety and responsible development.