Tesla's Remote Parking Feature Under Investigation After Crash Reports

NHTSA Investigates Tesla's Actual Smart Summon Feature

The National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has initiated an investigation into Tesla’s remote parking feature known as the "Actual Smart Summon." This action comes in light of multiple crash incidents reported from vehicles using this feature.

Details of the Investigation

NHTSA has logged reports of 16 separate incidents involving Tesla vehicles equipped with the Smart Summon feature, specifically targeting the 2016-2025 Model S and X, as well as the 2017-2025 Model 3 and 2020-2025 Model Y. The agency’s Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) is now examining approximately 2.6 million vehicles that include this parking technology.

Understanding Smart Summon

Initially launched and later rebranded as the "Actually Smart Summon," this feature allows users to control their Tesla vehicles via a smartphone app. Introduced as an upgrade last fall, the feature leverages a camera-only approach following Tesla's decision to remove radar and ultrasonic sensors. By pressing a button in the app, users can facilitate their vehicle's movement through parking lots without anyone inside.

Concerns and Incident Reports

While many videos on social media demonstrate successful use of the smart summon feature, several alarming videos depict Tesla vehicles colliding with other cars, scraping signs, and even hitting walls. NHTSA has raised concerns about incidents where users had insufficient reaction time to prevent crashes, despite having a line of sight or the ability to stop the vehicle by releasing the app button.

Crash Reporting and Future Implications

As of now, no injuries have been formally reported. However, the NHTSA is investigating the incidents under its guidelines requiring companies to report problems associated with automated or autonomous driving features. Interestingly, no crashes linked specifically to the Smart Summon have been disclosed under these regulations.

Political Context and Future Prospects

The future of NHTSA's crash-reporting rules, as well as its ongoing investigations into Tesla, could face significant changes with Donald Trump potentially resuming office. Given that Elon Musk is a key donor and advisor to Trump, the outcome may lead to a reevaluation of regulatory scrutiny placed on Tesla’s innovations.

Conclusion

The NHTSA's investigation into the Actually Smart Summon highlights the agency's commitment to ensuring the safety of automated driving technologies. As the situation develops, both Tesla owners and stakeholders will be keenly observing the findings and any potential regulatory changes that could arise.

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