NHTSA Complaint #11634845 — 2021 TESLA MODEL Y

This complaint addresses the recent changes made to the cruise control system in Tesla vehicles, as per NHTSA guidance in 2024. While the update aims to simplify the activation of enhanced cruise control, it introduces significant disadvantages and safety risks that need to be addressed. 1. Cruise Control Activation Update: NHTSA Guidance: In 2024, Tesla was required to modify the activation process for enhanced cruise control, allowing it to be engaged with a single pull when the option is selected. There are two options available: single pull and double pull. Advantages:  The update simplifies the process, enabling users to activate enhanced cruise control with a single pull, which is more convenient and user-friendly. Disadvantages:  When the enhanced cruise control is activated and the turn signal is engaged, the system automatically deactivates.  This deactivation causes the vehicle to stop maintaining its set speed, leading to a slowdown or complete stop. 2. Safety Risks: Driver Reaction:  The sudden deactivation of cruise control requires drivers to quickly move their feet back to the gas pedal to maintain speed.  This is particularly concerning when attempting to change lanes or merge into tight spaces, where maintaining speed is crucial for safety. Loss of Safety Features:  Upon deactivation of the enhanced cruise control, the vehicle no longer maintains a safe following distance, transferring full control back to the driver.  This abrupt transition means that the driver is left without the system's assistance to ensure safe driving and timely reactions, potentially increasing the risk of collisions. Increased Driver Workload:  Drivers must frequently reactivate cruise control after changing lanes, which demands additional effort and diverts attention from the road.  This constant need to manage the cruise control system can lead to driver distraction and increased cognitive load, potentially compromising road safety. 3. Recommendations: see attche