The eccentric Tesla CEO has made yet another controversial statement recently, claiming that the beta testing of the company’s FSD (Full Self-Driving) system will begin next Tuesday, October 20. He added that only the most experienced and attentive drivers would be admitted.
This leaves open the crucial question of how exactly Tesla intends to test its tech, given that the current U.S. legislation won’t allow it to happen on public roads. Tesla drivers can currently opt for SAE Level 2 Autopilot tech, which presumes full responsibility of the driver for all possible road emergencies and the handling thereof.
Furthermore, Musk insists on calling his FSD an “SAE Level 5” self-driving system, whereas the official classification clearly puts it into SAE Level 3 (the driver must be alert at all times, ready to intercept controls in difficult situations). Adding insult to injury is the fact that Tesla wants to install its autopilot software into older cars, including even the ones that come without LiDAR sensors considered essential for advanced autonomous driving.