A video circulating on social media over the past day has sparked widespread attention after appearing to show a Tesla driver asleep while his vehicle continued traveling on the road.
According to Channel 12 News, police questioned the driver following the footage on suspicion of careless driving and failing to maintain control of the steering wheel. He was released after questioning.
The video shows the 36-year-old driver from Migdal HaEmek with his eyes closed and his head tilted forward as the vehicle continued moving. The footage has reignited debate over Tesla's advanced driver-assistance systems and the distinction between driver assistance and fully autonomous driving.
Police stressed that despite the advanced technology, the driver remains fully responsible for operating the vehicle at all times. "Israeli law requires drivers to keep their hands on the wheel, maintain control of the vehicle and remain alert at all times," police said.
Police also clarified that the vehicle's driver-assistance systems do not constitute autonomous driving and do not permit drivers to fall asleep or relinquish responsibility while the vehicle is in motion.