Tesla's FSD Supervised Extended in Europe Amidst EV Leadership Debate

Tesla has announced an extension of its Full Self-Driving (FSD) Supervised ride-along program in Europe by an additional three months. This move allows more European drivers to experience and provide feedback on Tesla's advanced driver-assistance system. The extension comes at a time when the broader electric vehicle (EV) landscape is being discussed, with General Motors CEO Mary Barra recently stating that Tesla and Elon Musk deserve significant credit for pioneering the EV transition.

Key Takeaways

• Tesla's FSD Supervised ride-along program in Europe will continue for another three months.

• General Motors CEO Mary Barra acknowledged Tesla's pioneering role in the EV transition to President Joe Biden.

• Barra stated that credit for the EV shift should largely go to Elon Musk and Tesla, not just legacy automakers.

FSD Supervised Expansion in Europe

The decision to extend the FSD Supervised ride-along program in Europe signifies Tesla's commitment to gathering real-world data and user feedback from a diverse set of driving environments. This iterative approach is crucial for refining the capabilities of its autonomous driving technology. The program allows selected Tesla owners to test and report on the performance of FSD Supervised, contributing to its ongoing development and eventual wider release.

Acknowledging Tesla's EV Leadership

In a notable statement, General Motors CEO Mary Barra shared an anecdote from an interview with Andrew Ross Sorkin at the New York Times Dealbook Summit. She recounted telling President Joe Biden that he should credit Elon Musk and Tesla for spearheading the electric vehicle revolution in the United States. Barra emphasized that while she appreciates recognition, the foundational work and market disruption were undeniably initiated by Tesla.

This sentiment contrasts with previous public statements by President Biden, who, during a visit to GM's "Factory Zero" plant in 2021, credited GM and Barra for leading the EV charge. Barra's recent remarks suggest a broader acknowledgment within the industry that Tesla's early efforts paved the way for other manufacturers to invest heavily in electrification. Tesla's significant market share and early delivery numbers, even in the face of legacy automakers' efforts, underscore its impact on the automotive industry's shift towards EVs.