Tesla is making strides in deploying its Supervised Full Self-Driving (FSD) system outside of North America, with initial releases in China and Mexico. However, regulatory challenges in the United Kingdom (UK) and other regions are presenting obstacles to the software’s rollout.
The UK’s Department for Transport (DfT) has proposed stricter regulations for autonomous driving systems like Tesla’s FSD, as reported by Telegraph. The revised rules limit the functions of these systems to “highway” maneuvers and require drivers to keep their hands on the steering wheel. This change contrasts with the original draft, which allowed for more autonomous actions like stopping at traffic lights and changing lanes while hands-free.
UK officials expressed concerns about the safety implications of advanced driver assistance systems, emphasizing the need for phased deployment and thorough safety evaluations. Similar worries were raised at the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) regarding the broader approval of automated driving technologies.
In Europe, the deployment of Tesla’s FSD has been delayed due to regulatory barriers, particularly UN Regulation 171, which could postpone full implementation until 2028. Former Tesla executive Marc Van Impe highlighted the challenges posed by European regulations and called for a more flexible certification framework to accommodate innovative technologies.
Despite these hurdles, Tesla has introduced early versions of FSD features in China and Mexico. The company also launched Actually Smart Summon in Europe and the Middle East, signaling ongoing efforts to expand its autonomous capabilities globally.
Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO, acknowledged the impact of European regulations on FSD approval during the company’s Q4 2024 earnings call. He mentioned an upcoming EU committee session in May that is expected to address the approval of the software, providing hope for progress in regulatory acceptance.
Overall, Tesla continues to navigate regulatory complexities in different markets, balancing technological advancements with safety considerations to facilitate the widespread adoption of its FSD system.