Tesla Using Partially Automated Driving System Reportedly Hits Police Car And Another Vehicle In US

Tesla is not a typical automaker. Known for its world-class technology and safety measures, in most ways it closely resembles a Silicon Valley technology startup.

The company's cars are also renowned for their advanced autopilot or remote driving features that lets people control the vehicles without being behind the wheel. In recent months, there have been various occasions involving Tesla cars that have put the focus on the autopilot feature.

Tesla

Now, an issue has put focus back on what the company says is a reliable feature in their cars. A Tesla that had been on partial autopilot smashed into a police car in Florida.

The police car had pulled over to help a third vehicle just before 5am local time on Saturday, on an interstate close to Orlando, Sky News reported.

The officer, who had activated his vehicle¡¯s emergency lights, was reportedly nearly struck by the Tesla as it collided into his car as well as the car he was attending to.

Twitter/@FHPOrlando

The report said the 27-year-old man in the Tesla and the driver of the disabled vehicle suffered minor injuries and the trooper was unhurt.

It comes as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration investigates Tesla's Autopilot driving system following a number of similar collisions.

Happening now: Orange County. Trooper stopped to help a disabled motorist on I-4. When Tesla driving on ¡°auto¡± mode struck the patrol car. Trooper was outside of car and extremely lucky to have not been struck. #moveover. WB lanes of I-4 remain block as scene is being cleared. pic.twitter.com/w9N7cE4bAR

¡ª FHP Orlando (@FHPOrlando) August 28, 2021

Since 2018, there have been at least 11 crashes blamed on Tesla's Autopilot or cruise control, where a car has hit emergency services vehicles, as per Sky News.

Seventeen people have been injured in the accidents and one was killed.

The investigation, which is still underway, could lead to cars being recalled.