Tesla owners are reeling after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) launched an investigation into the company’s “Actually Smart Summon” feature, a smartphone-based app that allows users to remotely bring their vehicles to them. The investigation stems from a January 6th complaint alleging a crash involving a Tesla operating under this command.
The NHTSA is reviewing the speed and driving limitations of the autonomous technology while it’s engaged, as well as line of sight requirements. Investigators will examine connectivity delays and software usage in environments it was not designed for. The investigation builds on a probe into Tesla’s semi-autonomous Autopilot feature.
According to federal documents, over 2.8 million Tesla models are covered under the investigation, including 2016-2025 Model S and X, 2017-2025 Model 3, and 2020-2025 Model Y vehicles equipped with Full Self Driving. This is not Tesla’s first government probe, having had over half a dozen Cybertruck recalls in the past year.
While CEO Elon Musk has yet to comment on the investigation, it marks the latest challenge for Tesla’s autonomous technology. The company initially launched “Smart Summon” under the name “Actually Smart Summon,” which some have speculated may be a backronym.
Source: https://www.roadandtrack.com/news/a63360278/nhtsa-investigation-tesla-actually-smart-summon-feature