According to a LendingTree study spanning November 14th, 2022, to November 14th, 2023, Tesla ranks as the car manufacturer with the highest crash rate among 30 brands in the US. Specifically, there were an average of 23.54 accidents per 1,000 Tesla drivers within a one-year period.
This rate significantly exceeds subsequent brands such as Ram (22.76 accidents per 1,000 drivers) and Subaru (20.9 accidents per 1,000 drivers). In contrast, Pontiac (8.41 accidents per 1,000 drivers), Mercury (8.96 accidents per 1,000 drivers), and Saturn (9.13 accidents per 1,000 drivers) are among the top brands with the lowest crash rates.
These statistics from LendingTree do not delve into whether accidents primarily result from driver error or technical failures. However, in December 2023, Tesla recalled over 2 million vehicles to enhance its Autopilot self-driving system, specifically the Autosteer feature, which forms part of the vehicle’s advanced driver-assistance suite.
The recall aims to improve driver engagement while using the Autopilot feature. This semi-autonomous driving system does not assume complete control of the vehicle’s operation and allows drivers to engage in activities such as reading or briefly napping. Drivers are expected to be prepared to intervene if the feature encounters situations it cannot handle.
Over-reliance on the feature has contributed to accidents. The US Department of Justice launched a criminal investigation over a year ago after dozens of crashes occurred while Tesla’s Autopilot feature was engaged.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has reviewed 956 crashes in which Autopilot was allegedly engaged. Subsequently, the agency focused on 322 crashes involving the Autopilot system, including rear-end collisions and incidents where the system may have unexpectedly disengaged.
Tesla, the global pioneer in electric vehicles, ranked as the world’s most valuable automaker in 2023. The company was founded by Elon Musk, the world’s wealthiest entrepreneur, who also owns SpaceX, Neuralink, X (Twitter), and other ventures. In Vietnam, Tesla vehicles have been imported by private dealers, offering the Model S, Model 3, and Model S versions. The mid-size SUV Model Y, Roadster sports car, and Cybertruck electric pickup truck are yet to be introduced in this market.
Recommended Books for Reading in the Car
The Automotive section presents readers with captivating book recommendations across various topics. During journeys in our vehicles, there are often moments for relaxation and unwinding, and books make for delightful companions.