Tesla fatality sparks investigation

The death of a Tesla Model S driver in Florida earlier this year has sparked a widespread investigation into the vehicle's autopilot system involving the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the US Government and the automaker. 

The car was operating in autopilot mode on a clear, dry roadway when a tractor-trailer made a left-hand turn in front of the Tesla at an intersection. Apparently the trailer was white in colour, which both the driver and the autopilot system failed to recognise against a bright sky, so the brake was not applied. The outcome cements the view of many who have debated that the technology is simply not advanced enough for broad release. 

The NHTSA will investigate 25,000 vehicles featuring autopilot capability and, according to Reuters, said that the fatality "calls for an examination of the design and performance of any driving aids in use at the time of the crash".

Tesla claims that the particular set of circumstances that led to the incident was incredibly rare, but critics of the technology have continually highlighted the limitations of the system, whereby near-perfect driving conditions are required before it can be operated safely. 

The autopilot function was still in beta testing, with Tesla advising drivers that full 'hands off' operation was not recommended.