In a damning report by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), Tesla and Ford, along with several other major automakers, saw their driver-assistance systems flunk a critical safety test. The study, released this week, raises serious concerns about the effectiveness of these partially automated driving technologies and their potential to lull drivers into a false sense of security.
The IIHS meticulously evaluated 14 driver-assistance systems from various car companies. The results were sobering, with a staggering 11 systems receiving a dismal "poor" rating. The IIHS concluded that most of these systems lack adequate safeguards to ensure drivers remain attentive and focused behind the wheel.
"While some drivers might perceive partial automation as a welcome convenience for long journeys, there's scant evidence suggesting it translates to enhanced safety," declared David Harkey, president of IIHS. "High-profile accidents involving these systems serve as stark reminders – they can introduce new risks when safeguards are insufficient."
The lone bright spot in the report belonged to Toyota. Their Lexus brand's Teammate feature, incorporated in the LS sedan, managed to secure an "acceptable" rating. Two other models, the GMC Sierra pickup truck from General Motors and the Nissan Ariya electric SUV, received "marginal" grades. However, driver-assistance features from Tesla, Ford, Volvo, Genesis, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW all received failing scores.
It's crucial to remember that vehicles equipped with driver-assistance features aren't self-driving. They necessitate constant driver attention. Many systems rely on inward-facing cameras to monitor the driver's state and issue audible warnings when inattentiveness is detected.
Regulators and safety advocates have been increasingly vocal about the dangers of driver complacency on the road when relying on partially automated technology.
The IIHS investigation focused on how effectively these systems monitor drivers' head or eye movements, and how well they issue alerts and implement emergency interventions if drivers fail to respond to prompts.
The safety group hopes these new ratings will incentivize automakers to prioritize robust safeguards that prevent driver misuse of the technology and promote vigilance behind the wheel.
Ford defended its BlueCruise system, which permits hands-free driving under specific conditions, highlighting its comprehensive safety measures. The company expressed disagreement with the IIHS findings but acknowledged they would consider them for potential system updates.
Tesla, on the other hand, did not respond to requests for comment. However, several automakers with failing grades emphasized their commitment to safety and pledged to consider the IIHS feedback as they refine their systems.
Late 2023 saw Tesla compelled to issue a recall and modify its Autopilot system after a probe by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The automaker deployed a software update to over two million vehicles, introducing additional alerts and controls designed to maintain driver attentiveness. This action came after NHTSA raised concerns about potential misuse of Autopilot.
Despite these developments, Tesla continues to introduce new driver-assistance features and capabilities. One such addition is their "Full Self-Driving Capability" upgrade, priced at $12,000 upfront or $199 per month as a subscription service. However, Tesla constantly reiterates to users of both Autopilot and Full Self-Driving Capability the importance of remaining focused on the road and keeping their hands on the wheel.
The NHTSA has been actively investigating potential safety issues associated with driver-assistance technologies from various automakers. While the agency currently lacks formal standards for these advanced systems, a proposal emerged last year mandating automatic emergency braking on nearly all future cars and trucks.
The IIHS report serves as a wake-up call for the auto industry. It underscores the urgent need for robust safety measures and driver-centric design principles in partially automated driving systems. Only then can these technologies fulfill their promise of convenience without compromising safety on the roads.
