Recently, Tesla, the electric vehicle manufacturer, has been criticized for a series of crashes and traffic violations related to its self-driving system. More than 360,000 American vehicles have been recalled as a result of the company’s self-driving software update.
A sophisticated auto-pilot system controls various features of the self-driving system, including cruise control and steering. Furthermore, it is equipped with the capability to recognize and adhere to traffic lights and stop signs. A problem emerged, however, when the software caused a multi-car crash on a highway by changing lanes and suddenly stopping.
Although Tesla claimed it was unaware of any accidents resulting from the software, officials from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) met with Tesla representatives to discuss their concerns regarding the “full self-driving” beta software.
In response to this issue, Tesla has recalled 363,000 vehicles for software updates, citing “an abundance of caution.” The NHTSA was concerned that the software was not stopping vehicles at stop signs and that they navigated intersections unpredictably. The CEO of Tesla, Elon Musk, has not commented directly on the recall. On Thursday, he tweeted, “The word “recall” for an over-the-air software update is outdated and flatly incorrect!”
The recall will affect Tesla Model S and X vehicles with the full self-driving beta software already installed or in the process of being installed. Some Model 3 and Model Y cars will also be affected. Currently, Tesla is notifying affected owners and updating the software. It is recommended by both Tesla and the NHTSA that drivers remain vigilant when using this software, as it does not render the vehicle autonomous and requires the driver’s attention.
