Consumer Reports Berates Tesla’s Full Self-Driving Software Testing on Public Roads

It appears that the barrage of problems facing Tesla are never-ending. Despite the EV maker’s robust confidence in everything autonomous, researchers and safety experts at Consumer Reports are not echoing the same sentiment. The consumer advocate raised a series of scathing concerns regarding Tesla’s “Full Self-Driving” software, citing alarming reports from drivers about the EV maker’s use of the system on public roads.

Last week, Tesla released the latest prototype version of its driving assistance software, called the FSD beta 9, or what the automaker calls “Full Self-Driving.” Despite the misleading name, the new prototype is not actually self-driving, but it does come with a sweeping new set of features that significantly alter the vehicle’s operation. Indeed, the software update now automates even more driving operations, such as maneuvering city intersections under the driver’s oversight.

However, according to a report published on Tuesday, Consumer Reports revealed that the use of the latest set of FSD beta 9 features on public roads lacks proper safeguards, and may put the unsuspecting public at risk. Although the consumer advocate acknowledged it has yet to test the new software given that its Model Y SUV has not yet received the update, it did express concerns about the system’s safety and performance after reviewing content posted on social media.

“So far, our experts have watched videos posted on social media of other drivers trying it out and are concerned with what they’re seeing—including vehicles missing turns, scraping against bushes, and heading toward parked cars,” the report said. As Consumer Reports senior director Jake Fisher adds, “Videos of FSD beta 9 in action don’t show a system that makes driving safer or even less stressful.”

According to Consumer Reports, Tesla is essentially using its “existing vehicle owners to beta-test new features on public roads,” which raises concerns among safety experts. Although Tesla drivers may be assuming some level of heightened risk when they consent to the FSD beta 9 update, other unsuspecting drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists may not know they too, by default, are subject to risk they did not agree to.

Although Tesla has urged its customers to pay attention while driving, Fisher says that it is not enough: “The system needs to make sure people are engaged when the system is operational.” Recall, back in April, Consumer Reports engineers were able to bypass the Autopilot’s safety features all while the driver’s seat remained empty, as the vehicle steered itself alongside the painted lines on the road.

Consumers are simply paying to be test engineers for developing technology without adequate safety protection,” Fisher concluded.

Information for this briefing was found via Consumer Reports. The author has no securities or affiliations related to this organization. Not a recommendation to buy or sell. Always do additional research and consult a professional before purchasing a security. The author holds no licenses.

Video Articles

2026 Could Be Gold’s Biggest Year Yet!? | Ryan King – Equinox Gold

Gold Is Screaming Higher While Currencies Burn | Simon Ridgway – Rackla Metals

We Have the Highest-Grade Antimony Deposit in North America!? | Jim Atkinson -Antimony Resources

Recommended

Canadian Copper Secures $8 Million Lead Order From Ocean Partners As Part Of Larger Funding Round

Northern Superior Expands Philibert With 350 Metre Step Out Testing 1.10 g/t Gold Over 25.5 Metres

Related News

Tesla Shares Plummet After Automaker Allegedly Halts Expansion Plans in China

Tesla stock suffered a slump on Tuesday, after it was revealed the EV maker halted...

Wednesday, May 12, 2021, 10:31:00 AM

Tesla To Lose Credit Revenue Source After Stellantis Poised To Hit Emissions Targets

Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ: TSLA) is likely losing one source of its regulatory credit revenues, which...

Wednesday, May 5, 2021, 09:00:27 AM

Tesla’s Shanghai Factory Reported To Be “Giga-Sweatshop” And Quality Control Nightmare

It appears that the relationship between China and Tesla continues to sour, after a recent...

Tuesday, December 29, 2020, 04:13:51 PM

Disappointing 1Q 2022 Earnings Results of Auto Parts Suppler Could be Warning Sign for Entire Auto Industry

On April 22, Stockholm, Sweden-based auto supplier Autoliv, Inc. (NYSE: ALV) reported disappointing 1Q 2022...

Saturday, April 23, 2022, 09:00:00 AM

Elon Musk Closes Out Week With Further Stock Sales, Bringing Total To $6.9 Billion

In a move surprising absolutely no one, Elon Musk on Friday continued his trend for...

Sunday, November 14, 2021, 12:12:00 PM