TD's response on the system function update of electric vehicles

In response to media enquiries on the system function update of Tesla electric vehicles, the Transport Department (TD) today (October 30) responded as follows:

In connection with the recent launch of the system function update of Tesla electric vehicle, the TD has issued a warning letter to remind the vehicle manufacturer that it can only update the system of in-use vehicles after the TD has approved its application for the changes.

The TD is currently following up with the vehicle manufacturer on the system function update issue. The manufacturer, at the request of TD, has stopped releasing the said system function update to its customers in Hong Kong. The TD has also requested the manufacturer to take follow up action on the vehicles with the system function update downloaded already and restore the vehicles to the original software version without the new functions. According to the information provided by the manufacturer, at present there are a small number of vehicles which have downloaded the updated version.

The TD reminded car owners that before the said software update is approved by the department, they should not use the system by turning off the new functions. Moreover, although vehicles may be equipped with advanced driver assistance systems, the roads in Hong Kong are extremely busy, and motorists should stay alert, maintain control of the vehicle, and drive with care at all times.

According to the Road Traffic Ordinance, Chapter 374 of the Laws of Hong Kong and its subsidiary legislation, all alterations affecting vehicle or road safety (including software updates) need to be approved by TD, to confirm they meet the required safety standard, before they can be installed on the vehicle. Otherwise, the vehicles may be deemed to be not roadworthy.

Ends/Friday, October 30, 2015
Issued at HKT 20:22

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