Is Tesla Dangerously Overhyping Autopilot's Abilities? Consumer Groups Think So

Crashes involving drivers using Tesla's semi-automated Autopilot feature when those accidents occurred spurred two consumer groups to call on U.S. regulators to investigate company claims about the technology they call deceptive and that contribute to a misunderstanding of its limitations. In a letter sent to the Federal Trade Commission on Wednesday, the Center for Auto Safety and Consumer Watchdog said marketing of Autopilot's capabilities by Tesla and CEO Elon Musk's public comments have led customers to believe their cars are capable of driving themselves. There've been two U.S. fatalities involving Tesla drivers who had Autopilot engaged when the accidents happened, and the National Transportation Safety Board is investigating two recent crashes in which Model S drivers in Los Angeles and Utah plowed into parked fire trucks while using it. "Consumers in the market for a new Tesla see advertisements proclaiming, Full Self-Driving Hardware on All Cars." They are directed to videos of Tesla vehicles driving themselves through busy public roads, with no human operation whatsoever," the groups said in their joint letter to FTC Chairman Joseph Simons. "They see press releases alleging that Autopilot reduces the likelihood of an accident by 40%.