Summary
- NHTSA investigating Tesla’s Actually Smart Summon feature
- Users can remotely fetch their Tesla cars via smartphone app
- NHTSA received reports of four crashes involving Tesla EVs with the feature
- Probe covers specific Tesla models with Full Self-Driving system
- NHTSA to assess system’s performance, maximum speed, and line of sight requirements.
Article
Investigation into Tesla’s ASS Feature
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened a probe into 2.6 million Tesla vehicles in the United States after receiving reports of crashes involving the Actually Smart Summon (ASS) remote driving feature. This feature allows Tesla owners to remotely fetch their cars via a smartphone app. The NHTSA received reports of four crashes involving Tesla electric vehicles with the ASS feature activated.
Reports of Crashes
According to Reuters, the NHTSA is conducting a preliminary evaluation of the ASS feature following reports of crashes where damaged EVs failed to detect obstacles such as posts or parked vehicles while the feature was active. Some reports indicated that users had too little reaction time to avoid a crash, whether through line of sight or stopping the vehicle’s movement through the app button. Complaints included a Model 3 hitting a parked car with a passenger inside, and a Model Y abruptly turning left and striking a parked vehicle.
Models Covered in the Probe
The probe covers various Tesla models, including 2016-2025 Model S and Model X vehicles, 2017-2025 Model 3 EVs, and 2020-2025 Model Y crossovers with the optional Full Self-Driving (Supervised) advanced driver assistance system installed. The Actually Smart Summon feature allows users to fetch their cars from a distance, such as in large parking lots, without anyone in the car. A live view of the car’s surroundings is displayed on the user’s smartphone, and the car only moves when the app button is pressed.
Previous Version and Evaluation
The probe will assess the maximum speed of the Actually Smart Summon feature, its use on public roads, and line of sight requirements. The NHTSA will also examine how the cars are controlled via the smartphone app, the potential impact of connectivity delays, and the system’s performance in unanticipated conditions. If the preliminary probe results in findings warranting further action, the NHTSA may update it to an engineering analysis, potentially leading to a required recall. If a recall is issued, Tesla is likely to address the issue through an over-the-air software update.
Reintroduction of Smart Summon Feature
The Smart Summon feature was reintroduced with a new name in September of the previous year. The ASS feature provides users with a live view of what the car sees, allowing for remote control of the vehicle. However, a previous version of the system was released a few years ago but ultimately discontinued due to not being ready for widespread use. The probe aims to ensure the safety and proper functioning of the ASS feature in Tesla vehicles to prevent crashes and ensure user safety.
Next Steps
Following the completion of the preliminary probe, the NHTSA will determine whether to proceed with an engineering analysis that could lead to a recall if any safety concerns are identified. Tesla is expected to cooperate with the investigation and take necessary actions to address any potential issues with the Actually Smart Summon feature. Overall, the probe highlights the importance of ensuring the safety and reliability of advanced driver assistance systems in modern vehicles to protect both drivers and pedestrians on the road.
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