Tesla is pressuring the EU to approve its ‘Full Self-Driving’ technology
TSLA•Tesla won approval for its driver-assistance technology in the Netherlands and seven other EU countries, as regulators prepare for a vote on EU-wide approval. Seven traffic-safety researchers said Tesla’s European safety study cannot substantiate its claims that FSD prevents fatal crashes.
1. Safety claims challenged
Tesla has urged European regulators to approve its Full Self-Driving system, which requires a human driver’s attention, and has promoted claims that it saves lives. Seven traffic-safety researchers who examined Tesla’s European study said the sample of FSD-driven miles was too small to compare crash rates meaningfully, and that the study does not show the system prevents fatal crashes.
2. Dutch review and approvals
The Netherlands’ vehicle regulator, RDW, approved FSD and recommended EU-wide approval, which requires support from regulators representing 55% of member countries and 65% of the region’s population. Seven other EU countries, including the Czech Republic, Belgium and Denmark, have granted national approvals. Correspondence reviewed by Reuters shows Tesla challenged aspects of the Dutch review, and RDW made some adjustments; RDW said its assessment was extensive, independent and objective.
3. Pressure campaign
Tesla and CEO Elon Musk have used social media to criticize regulatory delays and urge supporters to contact officials. The article reports that French transportation minister Philippe Tabarot, who previously cited safety concerns, later described a constructive exchange with Musk and said he was working with Tesla on changes that could enable France to support approval.
