Tesla receives first European approval for full self-driving in the Netherlands
Tesla has obtained approval in the Netherlands for its ‘Full Self-Driving (Supervised)’ software, an important step in the European roll-out of autonomous driving technology. It is the first time that a European regulator has permitted such an advanced driver assistance system on public roads, according to Reuters.
The Dutch RDW carried out an evaluation lasting more than 18 months. It showed that the system, which can take over steering, braking and accelerating under the supervision of the driver, can improve road safety when used correctly. On the basis of this decision, the RDW intends to submit an application to the European Commission for broader European approval.
The decision comes at a crucial moment for Tesla in Europe. The brand’s sales had come under pressure due to an ageing model range and reputational issues surrounding CEO Elon Musk. Yet fresh growth has recently become visible again after a year of declines.
With the approval in the Netherlands, Tesla sees a possible revival in demand in Europe. The ‘Full Self-Driving (Supervised)’ software is regarded by the company as a core product in its future growth strategy, alongside robotaxi services and AI-driven mobility.
Analysts expect that a possible EU-wide approval could significantly boost demand for Tesla vehicles, especially as consumers are looking forward to the availability of advanced driving functions.
The stock market reacted moderately positively: Tesla’s share price rose by around 0.7% in after-hours trading, although it remains in the red on a yearly basis. The company itself described the decision on social media as an ‘important step’ and announced a rapid roll-out in the Netherlands.
The software is already offered in the US as a subscription service, but is subject there to increased scrutiny due to investigations and legal proceedings related to accidents and traffic violations. European authorities traditionally apply stricter safety criteria, which, according to the RDW, remains an important difference with the American version.
The next stage runs via the European Commission, where Member States will vote on the authorisation. If approved, Tesla can count on hundreds of thousands of potential vehicles in Europe that qualify for the upgrade. The company suggests that a broader European roll-out could already be possible in the summer.
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