Consumer Reports Urges Tesla to Disable Auto-Steer Feature

Tesla Motors Inc. should disable the automatic steering function in its Autopilot driver-assist system until the technology can be updated to require the operator to maintain a grip on the wheel, says Consumer Reports.

CR also objects to Tesla’s name for its driver-assist system. The magazine argues that “Autopilot” overstates the capabilities of the technology.

Tesla has advised customers from the beginning that they are responsible for maintaining vehicle control, whether or not Autopilot has been activated. CR is urging the company to make that point more clearly.

Earlier this week Nissan Motor Co. unveiled its own driving aid, ProPilot, that disables itself after a few seconds if the driver fails to keep at least one hand on the steering wheel. The Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive auto-steer feature also requires the operator to touch the wheel every few seconds.