Latvia approves Tesla driving assistance system, but activation is pending

Latvia’s Road Traffic Safety Directorate has recognised a Netherlands-issued approval for Tesla’s latest driver assistance system, allowing it to be used in the country, LSM reports. The system is not yet available to Latvian drivers and does not make the car fully autonomous.

Following a route entered into the navigation system, the technology can steer a car from one destination to another, recognise road signs and other road users, and adjust its speed. It can also brake and navigate intersections. The Road Traffic Safety Directorate said Tesla had tested the system on Latvian roads for several thousand kilometres.

Drivers must keep watching the road and be ready to take control at all times. The system also monitors the driver’s attention and may issue a warning or prevent use if the driver looks away from the road.

Drivers remain fully responsible for the car and any incidents, said Pauls Beinarovičs, head of the directorate’s Technical Department. The system does not assume any responsibility, he said.

It will work only in Tesla cars with the appropriate fourth-generation hardware. Although Latvia has approved its use, the system must still be activated by the manufacturer, and it is not known when that will happen. Use will require a monthly fee.