Summary
- Tesla Cybertruck FSD system failed to detect rolling and stationary objects in an independent pedestrian safety test
- The FSD almost drove over a mannequin and drove too close to an actual human, requiring driver intervention
- The Cybertruck’s FSD was found to have trouble detecting small objects, while larger objects like a kid’s bike were detected and stopped for using AEB
- FSD showed inconsistencies in detecting a mannequin, displaying an invisible shape instead
- FSD is under investigation for safety concerns, with experts raising red flags about its reliability and the need for improvement before unsupervised versions are released and approved
Article
Troubling Test Results of the Tesla Cybertruck’s Full-Self Driving System
In a recent pedestrian safety test, the Tesla Cybertruck’s Full-Self Driving (FSD) system failed to detect multiple rolling and stationary objects, including a mannequin and an actual human. The test conducted by Chris from the YouTube channel Dirty Tesla revealed concerning inconsistencies in the truck’s ability to identify objects on the road.
Initial Tests Unveil FSD Inaccuracies
During the test, the Cybertruck’s FSD system failed to detect small objects such as an exercise ball, a delivery box, and a white bucket, running over them without acknowledgment. However, larger objects like a kid’s bike were successfully detected and avoided, thanks to the Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) feature.
Challenges with Recognizing Human-Sized Objects
One of the key issues highlighted during the test was the Cybertruck’s inability to recognize a human-sized mannequin placed in its path. Instead of clearly identifying the figure, the system displayed an ambiguous and almost invisible shape on its screen, requiring manual intervention from the driver to avoid a collision.
Mixed Reactions to Human Presence
When Chris stood directly in front of the truck, the FSD system displayed inconsistent reactions. In one instance, the Cybertruck dangerously maneuvered around him at a close distance, while in another test run, it stopped correctly when Chris stood directly in its path, using the AEB feature.
Safety Concerns Surrounding FSD
The safety of Tesla’s Full-Self Driving system has come under scrutiny, with numerous deaths and crashes linked to its use. Multiple federal investigations are underway to assess the system’s reliability and address potential safety risks associated with autonomous driving technology.
Future of FSD and Tesla’s Robotaxi Business
Despite the challenges faced by FSD, Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently unveiled plans for the Tesla Robotaxi, which will be powered by the same technology. Musk is leading efforts to streamline regulations for FSD and the Robotaxi business through the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) under the Trump administration.
Conclusion
As Tesla continues to develop its autonomous driving technology, the safety and reliability of the Full-Self Driving system remain critical concerns. Addressing the limitations and inaccuracies highlighted in independent tests like the one conducted on the Cybertruck will be essential for ensuring the safe deployment of self-driving vehicles in the future.
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