Tesla Inc. CEO Elon Musk announced that the company is still awaiting regulatory clearance to roll out its full self-driving (FSD) driver assistance technology in Europe. This comes despite the successful rollout of FSD features in China earlier this week.
Regulatory Approval Issues
Musk stated, “We are waiting for regulatory approval” in a recent post. The company had initially planned to roll out FSD in Europe and China in the first quarter of 2025. However, the rollout in Europe has been delayed due to regulatory issues.
FSD Rollout in China
In China, Tesla has started rolling out FSD features, although they are not explicitly termed as FSD. These features include:
- Identifying traffic lights
- Allowing for automatic lane changes
- Monitoring driver attention using the cabin camera
The software update is being pushed out to vehicles in batches, with compatible models being gradually expanded.
Regulatory Challenges in Europe
Musk has expressed frustration with the regulatory landscape in Europe, describing it as a “layer cake of regulations and bureaucracy”. In January, he stated that the company has to navigate a “mountain of paperwork” to launch FSD in Europe. As a result, the rollout of FSD in Europe has been delayed, with no clear timeline for launch.
Future of Mobility
The delay in FSD rollout in Europe highlights the challenges faced by companies in navigating complex regulatory environments. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, companies like Tesla must adapt to changing regulations and find ways to innovate while ensuring safety and compliance.