Tesla Initiates Over-the-Air Software Update Following NHTSA Autopilot Recall

Tesla has commenced the rollout of a software update aimed at addressing the recent NHTSA Autopilot recall, which impacts all Tesla vehicles equipped with Autopilot in North America.

The recall, announced earlier this week, signifies the culmination of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s extended investigation into incidents involving Tesla vehicles on Autopilot colliding with stationary emergency vehicles on highways.

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The remedy for the recall involves an over-the-air software update, as confirmed by Tesla. The company’s collaboration with the NHTSA seeks to enhance safety features by incorporating additional warnings and alerts for drivers utilizing Autopilot functionality.

According to release notes obtained by Not A Tesla App, a platform tracking Tesla software updates, the following improvements to Autosteer are being implemented in response to the recall:

– Improved visibility of driver monitoring warning alerts on the touchscreen by increasing the text size and moving the notifications to a more prominent position (Model 3 and Model Y only).

– Added option to activate Autopilot features with a single stalk depression, instead of two, to help simplify activation and disengagement.

– Increased the strictness of driver attentiveness requirements when using Autosteer and approaching traffic lights and stops signs off-highway.

– Introduced a Suspension Policy that will restrict Autosteer usage for one week if improper usage is detected. Improper usage is when you, or another driver of your vehicle, receive five “Forced Autopilot Disengagements.”

You are the driver. As the driver, you must be vigilant to the road, keep your hands on the wheel, and be ready to intervene to maintain safety.

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The update is currently being deployed to Tesla owners in North America, with the distribution expected to reach the entire fleet over time. The overarching message from Tesla emphasizes driver responsibility, urging vigilance, hands-on-the-wheel adherence, and readiness to intervene for safety maintenance while using Autopilot features.