DMV Opens New Tesla (TSLA) FSD Review Following 'Videos Showing Dangerous Use'

California’s Department of Motor Vehicles has opened a new review into Tesla’s (NASDAQ: TSLA) 'Full Self-Driving' (FSD) and other driver-assistance software following what the department called “videos showing dangerous use.”

Last year, Tesla told FSD Beta testers to “be selective” in what they share on social media about the FSD Beta program and that “a lot of people want them to fail.”

Tesla has previously managed to avoid reporting autonomous driving data to the DMV, claiming that FSD Beta requires driver supervision at all times, and therefore, it doesn’t fit its description of autonomous. The DMV initially accepted this explanation, but after some pressure from State Senator Lena Gonzalez, the government agency now said that it is “revisiting” this decision.

The review seeks to determine whether it should consider Tesla’s Full Self-Driving Beta “autonomous,” a spokeswoman said Tuesday night.

“The DMV has notified Tesla that the department will be initiating further review of the technology on their vehicles, including any expansion of the current programs or features,” DMV spokeswoman Anita Gore said in an email. “If the capabilities of the features meet the definition of an autonomous vehicle according to California law and regulations, DMV will take steps to make certain that Tesla operates under the appropriate autonomous vehicle permits.”

“The DMV will be partnering with AV industry experts to evaluate the capabilities of Tesla’s vehicles,” she added.

The DMV didn’t offer a timeline on when it might decide on changing its definition of autonomous driving testing to get Tesla to report its data.

By Michael Elkins | [email protected]

You May Also Be Interested In

• Tesla recalls nearly 3 million vehicles in China over safety issues
• Einride shares soar on Tesla Semi partnership with Amazon
• Nuvectis Pharma (NVCT) files $200M mixed shelf