The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is nearing the end of its investigation into Tesla’s Autopilot system regarding its potential involvement in crashes with emergency vehicles on the side of the road. The investigation, which was initially focused on 11 crashes, has since expanded to include 16 crashes.
Acting NHTSA Administrator Ann Carlson has indicated that a resolution to the probe is imminent. She emphasized the importance of both drivers’ attention to the road and the effectiveness of driver monitoring systems. Carlson noted that it is crucial for driver monitoring systems to account for the fact that humans tend to over-trust technology.
Tesla’s Autopilot system has faced criticism for its driver monitoring capabilities in the past. Initially, Tesla’s driver monitoring system was limited to a torque sensor on the steering wheel, which could only detect if torque was applied but not whether the driver’s hands were on the wheel. Tesla later improved its monitoring by using the driver-facing camera to track the driver’s attention to the road.
The outcome of the NHTSA’s investigation could potentially lead to recommendations or requirements for improvements in Tesla’s driver monitoring system to ensure that drivers remain attentive and engaged while using the Autopilot system.