What We’re Reading
IIHS study shows drivers more distracted with partial automation systems (CBT News, September 17, 2024)
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has highlighted a worrying trend of increased driver distractions, such as phone use and eating, when using partial automation systems like Tesla’s Autopilot and Volvo’s Pilot Assist. These systems, designed to aid with routine driving through technologies such as sensors and cameras, can inadvertently lead to driver complacency. The IIHS study reveals that drivers often meet only minimal requirements to keep these systems engaged, leading to risky behavior. Despite the potential of these systems to enhance safety, the ease of use may cause excessive reliance on automation. The rise of these technologies has sparked concerns about driver distraction, prompting investigations into related accidents. The IIHS advocates for stronger safeguards and driver engagement to prevent misuse and ensure safety. As the push for automated driving technology intensifies, manufacturers must balance innovation with safety to truly enhance road safety without providing a false sense of security.
Tesla Semi Crash Required 50000 Gallons of Water, Fire-Fighting Aircraft to Put Out Blaze (Road & Track, September 13, 2024)
Last month, a Tesla Semi truck crash in California resulted in a significant fire, requiring firefighters to use 50,000 gallons of water to extinguish it. The NTSB announced that air support was called in to drop flame retardant to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby forest areas. The crash involved a Tesla employee driving the truck to a facility in Sparks, Nevada. At the time of the incident, ADAS were purportedly inactive. The crash occurred on Interstate 80 near Lake Tahoe, closing the highway for 14 hours. The truck was monitored for 24 hours post-fire to prevent re-ignition, a risk in lithium-ion fires due to their chemical composition providing all necessary fire elements.
Tesla Model 3 Prices Dropping Like A ‘Lead Balloon,’ Says Study (Inside EVs, September 10, 2024)
As the demand for electric vehicles has dropped over the past year in the US, electric cars are depreciating much faster than traditional gas and hybrid vehicles. Resale prices of used electric vehicles dropped 25% over the past year, which means consumers can purchase a high-tech electric vehicle for less than the average price of a used ICE vehicle. In a study published last week by automotive research firm, iSeeCars, the prices of the Tesla Model 3, Nissan Leaf, Hyundai Kona Electric, and Kia Niro EV have been dropping six times faster than ICE vehicles over the past year.
“The substantial drop in EV prices over the past year appears to have brought them in line with demand, with used EV days-on-market much lower today, reflecting a faster selling rate compared to a year ago,” stated iSeeCars analyst Karl Brauer.