Tesla Ordered to Provide Extensive Data on Driver Assistance Systems and “Elon Mode”
Tesla has been issued a special order from federal automotive safety regulators, requiring the company to provide detailed information about its driver assistance and driver monitoring systems, as well as a previously undisclosed configuration known as “Elon mode.”
Driver Assistance Systems and “Nag” Feature
When a Tesla driver engages the company’s driver assistance systems, such as Autopilot, Full Self-Driving (FSD), or FSD Beta options, a visual prompt appears on the car’s touchscreen to remind the driver to hold the steering wheel. If the driver ignores this prompt for too long, the system emits a beeping noise. If the driver continues to neglect the steering wheel, the advanced driver assistance features can be disabled for the remainder of the trip or longer.
“Elon Mode” and NHTSA Concerns
With the “Elon mode” configuration enabled, Tesla allows drivers to use Autopilot, FSD, or FSD Beta systems without the reminder to hold the steering wheel. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has sent a letter and special order to Tesla, expressing concern about the safety implications of recent changes to Tesla’s driver monitoring system. NHTSA is particularly interested in understanding the use of the special configuration and the number of authorized cars and drivers utilizing it.
NHTSA’s Request and Tesla’s Response
NHTSA has requested Tesla to provide all the requested information by August 25. Tesla submitted their response on time, but it has been treated as confidential by NHTSA. Tesla has not yet commented on the matter.
Expert Opinions and Ongoing Investigations
Philip Koopman, an automotive safety researcher and professor at Carnegie Mellon University, agrees with NHTSA’s concern about hidden features that compromise safety. NHTSA is currently investigating several crashes involving Tesla Autopilot systems to determine if they played a role. Tesla has consistently maintained that its driver assistance systems are not autonomous, despite marketing them under names that may cause confusion.
Musk’s Test Drive and Violation of Terms of Use
Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO, recently livestreamed a test drive on social media, demonstrating the company’s FSD software. During the livestream, Musk did not consistently show his hands on the steering yoke, potentially violating Tesla’s own terms of use for Autopilot, FSD, and FSD Beta. Some experts believe this demonstration could raise concerns with NHTSA.
Caution and Improvement in Tesla’s Technology
Tesla’s website emphasizes the responsibility of drivers to stay alert, keep their hands on the steering wheel, and maintain control of the vehicle while using Autopilot, Enhanced Autopilot, and Full Self-Driving Capability. Bruno Bowden, a machine learning expert and investor, noted that while Tesla is making improvements, it still has a long way to go before offering a safe, self-driving system.
During the test drive, the Tesla system almost ran a red light, requiring Musk’s intervention to avoid any danger.
