At this level, it is no shock when Tesla or CEO Elon Musk publicizes a game-changing function for his or her electrical automobiles.
Earlier this yr, Tesla launched the power for passengers to play video video games by means of the infotainment system mounted on the dashboard, even whereas the automotive is in movement, which may be activated after the participant confirms they’re a passenger.
Nonetheless, there may be nothing stopping a driver from tapping this immediate as nicely.
Tesla has now introduced its intention to introduce a software program replace to the Nationwide Freeway Visitors Security Administration (NHTSA) that can disable the perform whereas driving.
It got here after experiences earlier this week that the company opened a preliminary investigation into Passenger Play after issues have been raised by Tesla Mannequin 3 proprietor Vince Patton (as reported by the New York Instances). This probe covers all 4 Tesla fashions – S, X, Y and three from 2017 to 2022.
(Picture credit score: Tesla)
Whereas the provision of video games like Sonic 1 prompted a stir with gaming and Tesla followers alike, street security consultants and businesses worry that dwell video and interactive actions on the touchscreen may pose security issues.
Musk has made his love of gaming recognized over time, so his intent to make Tesla’s infotainment system extremely able to operating AAA titles was spectacular however no shock.
The NHTSA additionally introduced a collection of research earlier this yr into touchscreen failures, in addition to the efficiency of Tesla’s self-driving software program following client complaints.
Whereas we have not heard straight from Musk or Tesla representatives on this explicit piece of proof, the NHTSA investigation is step one in what could also be an extended street to reshaping how Tesla handles its in-vehicle leisure system.
Evaluation: The lengthy street to innovation
Large adjustments in the best way we dwell, work, and even drive aren’t all the time welcomed with open arms, and it is protected to say that Tesla isn’t any stranger to skepticism.
Nonetheless, warning is suggested with the leaps and bounds of latest developments akin to Tesla’s highly effective infotainment and the self-driving current.
The primary estimates by the NHTSA (June 2021) present that an estimated 38,680 folks have been killed in street accidents within the US in 2020 – the very best projected loss of life toll since 2007. Based on street security group Brake, 1,516 folks died within the UK in 2020 roads, with 1,460 deaths within the UK and 56 in Northern Eire.
After all, it is troublesome to pinpoint precisely what number of of those deaths are resulting from distracted driving, however earlier statistics from the NHTSA recommend that round 9 % of accidents have been reported as distraction-related in 2019.
Autonomous driving gives the chance that distracted driving could have much less of an impression on these statistics – however the NHTSA analysis estimates that the expertise has to date raised extra security issues than it resolves.
Whereas the way forward for self-driving automobiles stays hopeful, it’s protected to say that at the least for now, it’s time to meet expectations, placed on our seat belts and finish the solitaire recreation we performed on our infotainment techniques throughout a break from the road.
