Tesla CEO Elon Musk welcomed Germany’s support for Tesla’s driver assistance technology on Wednesday. Germany’s transport minister is pushing for faster EU approval after discussions with Tesla on technical and liability issues.
The German government has agreed that Tesla’s system can operate up to 10% above the posted speed limit. Germany also plans to support the approach during the European approval process. Speed control has become one of the main issues surrounding the technology.
Tesla has offered to rename its ‘Full Self-Driving’ system as ‘Tesla Assisted Driving’. German Transport Minister Steffen Bilger said the proposed name change could address concerns over the current branding. The system provides assistance to drivers and does not offer fully autonomous driving. Bilger said Germany wants Tesla drivers to access the technology across the EU.
‘My goal is for Tesla drivers to be able to enjoy the benefits of 'assisted driving' throughout the EU without delay,’ said Bilger.
Tesla’s push has received support from several European countries, including the Netherlands and Belgium. The Netherlands approved a Europe-specific version of the system earlier this year. That version excluded some features available in the US.
Sweden and France are among the countries that have raised concerns about Tesla’s system exceeding speed limits. An EU vote expected in October has been postponed until at least December while some countries carry out additional testing. Safety advocates have also questioned Tesla’s speed-offset function. The feature can allow the vehicle to travel above the posted limit, and some groups want it removed before approval.
Tesla sees approval of the technology as important for rebuilding its sales position in Europe. The company faces stronger competition from Chinese electric vehicle makers and has been lobbying European regulators for wider access.
Reuters reported that Tesla has mounted an intensive campaign to secure European approval. The company presents FSD as a technology that can improve road safety, while experts who reviewed Tesla’s supporting methodology found no evidence for that central claim.
Also Read: Tesla Expands UAE EV Portfolio with Premium Six-Seat Model Y L