Tesla’s efforts to launch autonomous vehicles and robotaxis in select markets have hit a roadblock. Recent reports indicate that the company’s vehicles are struggling to stop at railroad crossings, raising concerns over the effectiveness of its autonomous technology.
The Issue
The problem lies in Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) software, which is being used in the company’s vehicles. According to a recent report, Tesla owners have experienced issues with their vehicles failing to stop at train tracks, even when the arms are lowering and the lights are flashing. One owner, Italo Frigoli, recounted an incident where his vehicle failed to stop at a railroad crossing, forcing him to slam on the brakes to avoid a collision.
Driver Experiences
Several other drivers have come forward with similar experiences, including Jared Cleaver, who said his 2021 Tesla Model 3 using FSD came to a complete stop at a railroad crossing, only to begin moving forward again before he intervened. Another driver reported that their Tesla vehicle turned left onto train tracks, highlighting the severity of the issue.
Regulatory Response
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has confirmed that it is aware of the incidents and has been in communication with Tesla. The agency’s involvement could lead to further scrutiny of the company’s autonomous technology, potentially hindering its plans to roll out robotaxis in more cities.
Expert Opinion
Bryan Reimer, a research scientist at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, expressed surprise at Tesla’s inability to detect railroad crossings, given the emphasis on self-driving technology. “You’d think they’d be able to reliably detect this stuff,” Reimer said.
Implications
The NHTSA’s awareness of the issue could lead to setbacks for Tesla, particularly with President Donald Trump’s recent appointment of autonomous vehicle critic Jonathan Morris to lead the agency. Trump has previously expressed concerns about autonomous vehicles, and his administration may take a tougher stance on the technology.
Congressional Action
Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) has announced plans to introduce a bill that would ban fully autonomous vehicles from the country, citing concerns about safety and the impact on working people. The proposed legislation could further complicate Tesla’s efforts to develop and deploy its autonomous technology.
Conclusion
Tesla’s struggle to detect railway tracks raises significant concerns about the effectiveness of its autonomous technology. As the company continues to develop and refine its FSD software, it must address these issues to ensure the safety of its passengers and the general public. The regulatory environment and congressional action will likely play a crucial role in shaping the future of autonomous vehicles, and Tesla must navigate these challenges to achieve its goals.