Testing Tesla self-drive technology on Magic Roundabout is illegal, police say
Tesla Driver YouTube channel has been testing the limits of current Autopilot on UK streets, and recently he made a video of the Swindon "magic" mega-roundabout. People here probably know Autopilot currently doesn't really handle roundabouts, and the behavior seems to be to proactively abort when entering a roundabout.
Some quotes from the police:
"UK’s current legislation does not allow for [self-drive cars] use on public roads. … The driver in the YouTube video is breaking the law when he allows the car to take control as he is not in proper control of his vehicle and, if stopped by officers, would be asked to attend court."
Arguably, Autopilot currently doesn't make the car "self-drive," and the driver is technically in control. So unclear if actually legally challenged would Autopilot users be convicted of illegally operating "self-drive" cars.
Tesla Driver is well aware of Autopilot limitations with his testing, so he likely glides his hand on the steering wheel ready to take over while Autopilot attempts to turn. Also unclear if even with hands on wheel would this be considered "not in proper control" by a judge.
Hopefully this doesn't stop him from making Autopilot videos as his content is especially useful to see behavior differences from US, e.g., pillar cameras used for traffic light detection.
Tesla Driver YouTube channel has been testing the limits of current Autopilot on UK streets, and recently he made a video of the Swindon "magic" mega-roundabout. People here probably know Autopilot currently doesn't really handle roundabouts, and the behavior seems to be to proactively abort when entering a roundabout.
Some quotes from the police:
"UK’s current legislation does not allow for [self-drive cars] use on public roads. … The driver in the YouTube video is breaking the law when he allows the car to take control as he is not in proper control of his vehicle and, if stopped by officers, would be asked to attend court."
Arguably, Autopilot currently doesn't make the car "self-drive," and the driver is technically in control. So unclear if actually legally challenged would Autopilot users be convicted of illegally operating "self-drive" cars.
Tesla Driver is well aware of Autopilot limitations with his testing, so he likely glides his hand on the steering wheel ready to take over while Autopilot attempts to turn. Also unclear if even with hands on wheel would this be considered "not in proper control" by a judge.
Hopefully this doesn't stop him from making Autopilot videos as his content is especially useful to see behavior differences from US, e.g., pillar cameras used for traffic light detection.
