You'll want to read the Tesla user guide, though
If you've ever wondered what it's like to ride in a Tesla with the Full Self-Driving (Supervised) system enabled, now could be your chance. Last month, Turo announced that users can now search for and book Teslas that are equipped with the carmaker's latest advanced driver-assistance system. As with Tesla owners, Turo users experimenting with FSD will need to stay vigilant, or else they could end up on the news for all the wrong reasons.
Despite what its name suggests, Tesla's FSD system is only a Level 2 system. This means it is not technically a hands-off, eyes-off, or mind-off system, where the driver can completely relax while behind the wheel. As a result, Turo is encouraging users to read Tesla's Full Self-Driving (Supervised) safety documentation before booking a ride. That's smart on Turo's part, but we can't help but think very few users will bother, and they'll probably end up booking Teslas they think are fully autonomous, only to find out they're not. That sounds like a recipe for disaster.
As part of the Turo app update, users can now search specifically for Tesla vehicles that are equipped with FSD. The app also displays a message reading 'Your Tesla will be able to drive itself almost anywhere with minimal driver intervention.' Although that may be true, such a bold proclamation could lead some passengers to let their guard down from the driver's seat, which, again, isn't a wise idea with FSD.
Turo says 55% of Americans are interested in self-driving tech
There are already thousands of FSD-enabled Teslas available on Turo. Tesla owners who already have their vehicle listed on Turo but don't have FSD can get a free one-month subscription to try it. Vehicles must have the latest Tesla AI4 hardware, and the owner must have completed at least one trip as a Turo host. Fortunately for users, FSD cannot be listed as a paid extra, though there's nothing stopping hosts from increasing rental fees if their car has FSD.
Hosts are also being encouraged to warn guests that the Full Self-Driving (Supervised) system requires their full attention and that they remain in charge of the vehicle. In addition, guests should be warned that the system may suddenly stop operating if the cameras are obstructed.
"This industry-first integration with Tesla is another example of how Turo is redefining what car rental and access can look like," Turo chief executive Andre Haddad said as the roll-out started. "Most travelers have had limited opportunity to experience driver's assistance technology, but the demand is clear. Our own research shows that 55% of Americans are interested in driverless technology for travel, growing to 71% for Gen Z. Turo's marketplace model is uniquely positioned to close the gap between consumer curiosity and hands-on access."
