Tesla’s remote parking feature under investigation after over a dozen crashes
VergeDEC 22 2024
NHTSA Probes Tesla's Smart Summon After Multiple Crashes
Above: Tesla automobiles plugged in and charging August 24, 2016. Image copyright: Smith Collection/Contributor/Gado/Getty Images
The Facts
The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has initiated an investigation into approximately 2.6M Tesla vehicles equipped with the Actually Smart Summon feature, which enables remote vehicle movement.
This investigation follows multiple reported incidents where Tesla vehicles operating under Smart Summon failed to detect posts or parked vehicles, resulting in collisions. Users were unable to prevent crashes due to limited line of sight or reaction time.
This probe encompasses Tesla Models S and X (2016-2025), Model 3 (2017-2025), and Model Y (2020-2025) vehicles equipped with the Full Self-Driving driver assistance system.
The Spin
Narrative A
The Smart Summon feature is obviously a work-in-progress and the company shouldn't be allowing vehicle owners to use it. It's suspicious that Tesla hasn't reported any crashes while social media is filled with examples. Problems stemming from Tesla's reliance on cameras for navigation should concern users of other Tesla features.
Narrative B
Don't be fooled by some social media posts.The Smart Summon feature represents a significant advancement in autonomous vehicle technology. It's designed specifically for private property use, such as parking lots and driveways. It comes with clear user guidelines and safety protocols in place and, if used responsibly, is completely safe.
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