Auto drivers aren't simply ready to handle autonomous driving features, according to Consumer Reports.
The firm singled out Tesla Motors Inc (NASDAQ: TSLA) and its autopilot feature that has been linked to several crashes, one of
which resulted in the death of a Model S owner.
Consumer Reports joins other safety advocate groups in questioning if autonomous driving features is trustworthy enough for auto
drivers. In other words, it's questioning if Tesla made a "dangerously premature assumption" that its autopilot feature was
"capable of truly diving on its own."
Related Link: Tesla's
Newest Controversy: Who Knew What And When?
Tesla's position regarding its autopilot feature has been consistent since the beginning. The company can't stress enough that
the driver, and not an automated system, is "still responsible for, and ultimately in control of, the car."
Nevertheless, Tesla's position remains confusing according to Consumer Reports. Specifically, Tesla's autopilot system is
designed to "drive itself" but the driver needs to fully pay attention to take over the controls at a moment's notice.
"Many automakers are introducing this type of semi-autonomous technology into their vehicles at a rapid pace, but Tesla has been
uniquely aggressive in its deployment," Consumer Reports argued. "It is the only manufacturer that allows drivers to take their
hands off the wheel for significant periods of time, and the fatal crash has brought the potential risks into sharp relief."
Consumer Reports' Laura MacCleery argued that Tesla's autopilot feature offers users a "false sense of security" and that
perhaps consumers are being "sold a pile of promises" regarding safety with an "unproven technology."
Finally, Consumer Reports is suggesting Tesla immediately stop referring to its system as "autopilot" and disable the autosteer
feature. The company should also issue clearer guidance on the features limitations and no longer release safety features that are
still in beta mode.
© 2016 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.