U.S. safety regulators have launched an investigation into Tesla’s “Actually Smart Summon” feature, which allows drivers to remotely summon parked cars using their phones. The probe follows numerous reports of accidents involving the technology.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced that Tesla vehicles operating in “Actually Smart Summon” mode have struggled to detect obstacles such as posts and parked cars.
The feature, introduced in September, is available on nearly 2.6 million Tesla vehicles manufactured since 2016, including the Model S, Model 3, Model X, and Model Y.
Tesla has yet to comment on the investigation. CEO Elon Musk, a vocal proponent of Tesla’s self-driving advancements, has argued that such technology is safer than traditional driving and represents the future of transportation.
Reported Incidents
NHTSA noted that at least four crashes have been linked to the “Actually Smart Summon” feature, none of which resulted in injuries. Additionally, the agency is aware of about a dozen incidents involving its predecessor, “Smart Summon.”
This investigation is part of a broader examination of Tesla’s automated driving technologies, which have faced scrutiny following accidents, including some fatalities.
Key Focus Areas
NHTSA stated the probe would examine several aspects of the “Actually Smart Summon” feature, including:
- The maximum speed at which cars can operate while using the feature.
- Restrictions in place to prevent its use on public roads.
- Compliance with Tesla’s guidelines that advise using the feature only in private, familiar areas like driveways and maintaining a clear line of sight between the driver and the vehicle.
Tesla’s manual explicitly states that “Actually Smart Summon” is disabled on public roads.
Regulatory Implications
This investigation is the first step in a process that could result in a recall. The timing is notable, as it coincides with political shifts in Washington. President-elect Donald Trump, a known ally of Elon Musk, is set to take office soon. Trump campaigned on promises to reduce government regulations and spending, which could influence the regulatory landscape for Tesla and other automakers.
Tesla’s automated driving systems, including its autopilot features, remain under intense scrutiny as regulators and the public weigh the benefits and risks of self-driving technology.
