A feature of Tesla Inc’s assisted self-driving system Autopilot is facing scrutiny in Germany. Right now, global regulatory scrutiny of Tesla’s driver-assistance technology is intensifying.
Germany’s Bild newspaper quoted a spokesman for Germany’s Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) as saying that the KBA is investigating Tesla’s automatic lane change feature and whether it is approved for use in Europe.
At the same time, the KBA is also in touch with the Dutch automotive agency responsible for approving Tesla vehicles for sale in Europe.
Growing regulatory scrutiny is creating risks for the commercialization of Tesla’s self-driving car technology. Last week, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration opened a second investigation into possible flaws in Autopilot.
The latest investigation in Germany adds to the regulatory hurdles Tesla faces in the country. Tesla’s first factory in Europe, near Berlin, has been slower than expected due to backlash from environmental groups concerned about water use and wildlife.