At this level, it is no shock when Tesla or CEO Elon Musk publicizes a game-changing characteristic for his or her electrical autos.
Earlier this yr, Tesla launched the flexibility 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 might be activated after the participant confirms they’re a passenger.
Nevertheless, 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 may disable the operate whereas driving.
It got here after reviews earlier this week that the company opened a preliminary investigation into Passenger Play after considerations had been raised by Tesla Mannequin 3 proprietor Vince Patton (as reported by the New York Occasions). This probe covers all 4 Tesla fashions – S, X, Y and three from 2017 to 2022.
(Picture credit score: Tesla)
Whereas the supply of video games like Sonic 1 prompted a stir with gaming and Tesla followers alike, highway security consultants and businesses concern that dwell video and interactive actions on the touchscreen may pose security considerations.
Musk has made his love of gaming identified over time, so his intent to make Tesla’s infotainment system extremely able to working AAA titles was spectacular however no shock.
The NHTSA additionally introduced a sequence 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’ve not heard instantly from Musk or Tesla representatives on this specific piece of proof, the NHTSA’s investigation is step one in what could also be a protracted highway to reshaping how Tesla handles its in-vehicle leisure system.
Evaluation: The lengthy highway to innovation
Massive adjustments in the way in which we dwell, work, and even drive aren’t all the time welcomed with open arms, and it is secure to say that Tesla is not any stranger to skepticism.
Nevertheless, warning is suggested with the leaps and bounds of latest developments reminiscent of Tesla’s highly effective infotainment and the self-driving current.
The primary estimates by the NHTSA (June 2021) present that an estimated 38,680 individuals had been killed in highway accidents within the US in 2020 – the very best projected loss of life toll since 2007. Based on highway security group Brake, 1,516 individuals 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 on account of distracted driving, however earlier statistics from the NHTSA counsel that round 9 p.c of accidents had been reported as distraction-related in 2019.
Autonomous driving affords the chance that distracted driving may have much less of an influence on these statistics – however the NHTSA analysis estimates that the know-how has thus far raised extra security considerations than it resolves.
Whereas the way forward for self-driving automobiles stays hopeful, it’s secure to say that at the least for now, it’s time to meet expectations, placed on our seat belts and finish the solitaire sport we performed on our infotainment techniques throughout a break from the road.
