In a recent development, Consumer Reports has criticized Tesla's fix for its Autopilot recall, deeming it "insufficient" following preliminary tests. Kelly Funkhouser, the associate director of vehicle technology at the nonprofit organization, revealed that it is still possible for drivers to cover the cabin camera while using Autopilot, compromising the car's ability to monitor driver attention.

Moreover, Funkhouser's evaluation also indicated that there were no discernible differences while using Autopilot's flagship feature, Autosteer, outside of controlled-access highways, where Tesla claims the software is designed to be employed. This raises questions about Tesla's approach to driver monitoring, further necessitating extensive testing by Consumer Reports in the coming weeks. Notably, the group has yet to evaluate other modifications such as more prominent visual alerts on the Model 3 sedan and Model Y SUV, as they have only received the over-the-air software update on their Model S sedan.

Tesla's recent addition of a suspension policy, deactivating Autopilot for one week in case of "improper usage," did not come into play during Funkhouser's tests. Funkhouser embarked on two drives lasting between 15 and 20 miles each, where she did not encounter any such usage issues.

The recall, which affects over 2 million vehicles in the United States and Canada, has been announced amidst an ongoing two-year investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This investigation has predominantly focused on the Autosteer feature, which aims to keep a vehicle centered in its lane on controlled-access highways, even around curves.

While Tesla instructs drivers to remain attentive and keep their hands on the wheel while using Autosteer, NHTSA has expressed concerns that the current checks implemented by Tesla are inadequate in preventing misuse. Although Tesla does not restrict the use of Autosteer to controlled-access highways, the company has agreed to add additional checks to engage Autosteer and while using the feature on roads outside controlled-access highways, as part of the recall.

Some vehicle owners speculated that the recall might lead to restrictions on Autosteer usage, similar to Ford's Blue Cruise and General Motors' SuperCruise systems. However, Funkhouser's tests indicated that such drastic measures are unnecessary. Tesla's most recent software update notes mention heightened driver attentiveness requirements and increased functionality of the cabin camera, but Funkhouser asserts that it is difficult to discern the exact extent of the modifications.

The lack of clarity surrounding the update raises questions about how much Tesla has modified the camera's ability to monitor driver attentiveness. While NHTSA declined to comment on the matter, directing questions to Tesla, the electric vehicle manufacturer does not possess a press department to address inquiries.

As the investigation into Tesla Autopilot continues, these findings by Consumer Reports reveal the need for additional scrutiny and potential improvements in Tesla's approach to driver monitoring.