Tesla's touchscreen gear selector raises concerns in the auto industry
Cars
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Despite mixed feelings in the auto industry over how the updated Tesla Model S presents the ability to shift into gears via a screen nitsa told roadshow on Monday the system presents no compliance concerns.
So what exactly happened are videos on the updated Model S electric sedan and its touchscreen shifter system Surfaced last week, which prompted questions about how safe the operation is for motorists.
This is how it works.
The driver shifts the car into drive or reverse by pulling and dragging an icon on the touchscreen.
The neutral gear is located deeper in the menus.
While it's not yet clear how the car shifts into park in a statement NHTSA told roadshow it's aware of the system Tesla developed and that a properly configured transmission shift control operated by means of a touchscreen interface would not violate Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
Also, Tesla has certified compliance with all applicable safety standards and it's NHTSA.
Under federal law, our automakers must self certify that a vehicle meets all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, which Tesla has done for the updated Model S and other vehicles that will use this system.
Now, owners are always able to report safety concerns to Nitza which may prompt a review of the self certification process.
Now of course, CEO Elon Musk first open this particular can of worms.
Back in January after revealing the New Model S and Model X guesses drive direction based on what obstacles it sees context and nav maps and a tweet.
Tesla does not operate a public relations department.
Filled request for comment and has not elaborated further on how exactly this would work but for now Nitsa says it's a okay.
As for the other controversial part of the model s and model x the yoke style steering well we haven't yet heard whether the government agency made a decision on the component Nitsa declined to comment further on the yoke.
What are your thoughts on this touchscreen gearshift method though?
Would you feel comfortable using it?
Let us know in the comments.
