Until now Tesla ignored suggestions made by the NTSB about its Autopilot driver assistance system, the board’s chairman Robert Sumwalt has been pointing out.
Musk does say the crashes involving Autopilot often stem from driver complacency. But until now he rejected the NTSB and his in-house engineering suggestions to include comprehensive driver monitoring to the Tesla. Musk has been saying that the tech was “ineffective.”
Using a camera to monitor driver alertness
Tesla currently measures driver attention through sensors in the steering wheel that measure resistance. The strategy is that if drivers don’t keep their hands on the steering wheel, the car sends out a series of escalating visual and audible warnings.
Other automakers like Ford and General Motors sell cars that use camera-based eye-tracking systems. In self-driving mode, sophisticated cameras make sure the drivers are paying attention.
Software notes released for the new Model Y describe the newest safety feature. And explains how the cabin camera above the rearview mirror is used.
