The Dutch regulator on April 10 approved the use of Tesla's supervised self-driving software on both highways and urban roads, marking the first time this technology has been accepted in Europe.
The software called Full Self-Driving Supervised allows the car to self-control operations such as steering, braking and accelerating, but still requires the driver to supervise. The decision was made after more than 18 months of testing and evaluation by the vehicle management agency RDW.
RDW believes that the proper use of this driver assistance system can make a positive contribution to traffic safety. The agency also said it will submit a dossier for the technology to be considered for application throughout the European Union.
Tesla considers expanding self-driving software as a central factor in its growth strategy, with the expectation of generating large revenue from artificial intelligence and robotaxi services. The company's market capitalization is largely based on confidence in the potential of this technology.
In Europe, Tesla's sales once stagnated due to the old electric vehicle portfolio and Mr. Elon Musk's controversial political statements. However, sales increased again in February after more than a year of decline.
Analysts believe that being approved in the Netherlands may boost car buying demand when consumers want to experience new technology. Tesla also said it will soon deploy this software in the Netherlands and expects to expand to other European countries.
The Netherlands is currently one of Tesla's largest electric vehicle markets with about 100,000 Model 3 and Model Y cars that can use this software. While many other car manufacturers are also developing self-driving technology, most are still limited to certain conditions, while Tesla's system is allowed to operate in a wider range.
RDW emphasizes that safety standards in Europe are stricter than in the US, so the software versions in the two regions are different. Applications for application to the entire EU will be submitted to the European Commission and require the approval of member states.
