Letters to Senator Show Tesla Allows Remote Control of Robotaxis

Insights

• Seven autonomous vehicle developers told Senator Ed Markey they use remote assistants to help vehicles when they are confused, stuck, or in emergencies.
• Six firms say remote assistants provide advice or inputs but do not directly control or drive vehicles.
• Tesla told the senator its remote assistants are authorized to temporarily assume direct vehicle control as a final escalation and can move a vehicle at up to 2 mph or remotely drive at up to 10 mph if allowed by the software.
• Markey said companies refused to disclose how often remote assistance is used and called for federal scrutiny and new legislation to address safety gaps.
• Experts warn remote teleoperation raises safety risks from network latency and limited situational awareness, and companies cite trade secret claims when resisting disclosure.