Lawmakers Demand Federal Action After 43 Tesla Drivers Filmed Asleep at Wheel

A group of lawmakers has called on federal regulators to take action against Tesla after a compilation video surfaced showing 43 drivers asleep or unresponsive while their vehicles operated with Autopilot engaged.

What Happened

The video, which has been shared with congressional offices, aggregates clips of Tesla drivers appearing to be asleep or otherwise inattentive behind the wheel. The footage highlights instances where the driver monitoring system failed to alert or intervene in a manner that prompted federal scrutiny. The number of distinct drivers featured in the compilation is 43.

Why It Matters

This development intensifies pressure on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) regarding its oversight of Level 2 driver-assistance systems. If regulators deem the current monitoring systems insufficient, it could lead to stricter enforcement actions, recalls, or mandated software updates for Tesla vehicles. For buyers, this raises questions about the reliability of hands-on-wheel requirements and the potential for future regulatory changes affecting vehicle safety ratings.

The Bottom Line

Lawmakers are urging federal agencies to investigate the widespread misuse of Tesla's Autopilot feature, citing visual evidence of driver inattention in 43 separate instances.