Tesla’s Q2 safety report depicted great improvements to the Autopilot feature, as well as general safety. In a new assessment, however, the feature didn’t perform particularly highly, signalling that Tesla’s driver assistance system still has a long way to go.
Tesla’s Autopilot ranked sixth out of 10 driver assistance programs after a European safety evaluation, according to Reuters. The European New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) rated several cars on their abilities to retain driver engagement, as well as their abilities to respond to emergencies, which Tesla ranked highest on.
The Model 3 Autopilot scored 36 on its ability to maintain a driver’s focus on the road. Alternatively, Tesla scored 131 on the performance and ability to respond to emergencies category, yet another example of the car’s impressive safety. Additionally, it landed a 131 overall, receiving the rating “moderate.”
Europe safety body rates #Tesla Autopilot low on driver engagement https://t.co/aB5UnuJRWq
— The Driven (@TheDriven_io) October 2, 2020
Matthew Avery, Research Director at Thatcham Research and a member of the Euro NCAP board told reporters, “Unfortunately, there are motorists that believe they can purchase a self-driving car today. This is a dangerous misconception that sees too much control handed to vehicles that are not ready to cope with all situations.”
Other driver-assisting cars tested include the Mercedes GLE system, which garnered the highest score overall at 174, with a score of 85 for engagement, as well as the BMW 3 series, and the Audio VOWG_p.DE Q8.
In spite of the tests, it’s relieving to see improvements quarter-over-quarter for Tesla’s Autopilot system. Hopefully, with a few more years of improvements, Tesla can continue to help its Autopilot maintain driver focus.
