Tesla FSD faces scrutiny in Europe over speeding, improper overtaking claims

Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) system is facing criticism in Europe following tests conducted by the Belgian road safety advocacy group Johanna.be. According to a report released on September 24, the FSD system was observed to frequently exceed speed limits and attempt dangerous overtakes of cyclists on roads where it is forbidden.

The tests, carried out over three days and covering approximately 400 kilometers in Belgium, revealed that FSD often drove faster than the 20 km/h and 30 km/h speed limits. The system also incorrectly displayed higher speed limits to drivers, potentially misleading them into believing they could drive faster. For instance, in most 30 km/h zones tested around Brussels, FSD's average speed was 44 km/h, despite the system recognizing the lower limit signs.

Video evidence presented by Johanna.be shows a Tesla with FSD enabled attempting to overtake cyclists on roads where overtaking is prohibited. While the group acknowledged FSD's cautious behavior around pedestrians and cyclists, they stated these positive aspects did not outweigh the documented violations of speed limits and cycling street regulations.

This development comes as European regulators are reviewing FSD's compliance with local traffic laws. Although the system received approval from the Dutch regulatory body RDW in April, followed by Belgium and several other countries, concerns have been raised by various EU nations. Tesla maintains, based on its own research, that FSD-equipped vehicles do not excessively speed and match surrounding traffic speeds.

Belgian authorities, while having approved FSD, emphasize that drivers remain fully responsible for adhering to traffic laws and must be prepared to intervene. Johanna.be has submitted its report to the Flemish Ministry of Transport and RDW, urging a reassessment of the FSD system's prior approvals.