Does Tesla tamper with its cars for crash tests? This hacker sows doubt


A reputable hacker peeled the code for Tesla’s Model 3 and Model Y OS. He found references to the main vehicle safety rating agencies, such as EuroNCAP, ANCAP and I Vista. A disturbing discovery that casts doubt on the practices of the manufacturer.

Credits: EuroNCAP

Year after year, Tesla regularly shines when it comes to ratings from various vehicle safety rating agencies. In 2019, the Model 3, for example, obtained the maximum score in the European passenger safety test, with 5 stars awarded by EuroNCAP. Recently, the American manufacturer has again distinguished itself by obtaining 5 stars in the EuroNCAP test with its Model Y.

However, recent revelations could well call into question these excellent performances. Indeed, a reputable hacker by the name of GreenTheOnly has just made a disturbing announcement on Twitter. He explains having discovered in OS code Model 3 and Model Y specific lines referring to the main rating agencies automobile safety such as EuroNCAP, ANCAP, Korea NCAP or even I Vista, the Chinese certification body.

Also read: Tesla Model 3 – Autopilot makes the car less safe according to Euro NCAP

Does Tesla tweak its cars to pass safety tests? The question is asked

For the moment, the presence of these mentions finds no official explanation. What prompted the hacker to wonder if Tesla would not modify its vehicles accordingly to pass the tests with flying colors and meet the requirements of each agency. For the moment, Tesla has not officially spoken on the subject. A rather worrying silence, especially since some rating agencies have taken the hacker’s statements seriously.

This is particularly the case of the ANCAP agency, who indicated that an official investigation would be opened. For the time being, the other agencies mentioned by GreenTheOne have not given a statement on this case. Anyway, if the hacker’s accusations are true, this discovery could seriously damage Tesla’s reputation.

Especially since, it must be remembered, a recent study has already undermined the manufacturer’s reputation. Indeed, a report published by JD Power revealed that Tesla cars experienced a significant increase in technical problems in 2022. The ratio speaks for itself: 266 reports for various problems out of 100 vehicles. In addition, note that the federal investigation conducted by the NHTSA (American agency in charge of road safety) centered on the safety of the Autopilot is still in progress. The objective is to determine if the technology is responsible for about fifteen accidents on American roads.





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