Both Tesla and Mercedes-Benz were caught in muddy waters recently due to their latest entertainment faux pas: video games in moving cars. These trailblazing automakers permitted the use of active video gaming on the main touchscreen while the car is in motion. Although the idea of gaming in the car sounds ultra fun, the safety concerns are evident. Are drivers able to maintain total focus on the road with an interactive game at arms reach?
Nine times out of ten, the answer is no.
Tesla takes an unorthodox approach to video games in moving cars
When a safety concern is brought to the attention of drivers, it doesn’t take long for safety organizations to get involved. In this case, the NHTSA is officially taking action. Some might admit they are a little late to the game as Tesla’s summer upgrade contributed to the change. Nonetheless, the NHTSA has reached out to both automakers to further understand their decision in allowing video games in moving cars.
Recall vs. resistance
In response to Mercedes’ unusual lapse of judgement involving video games in moving cars, the automaker issued a recall on November 29th, 2021 for the following vehicles:
- S580
- EQS 450
- EQS 580
- S500
Although no reported injuries or crashes have been brought to light at this time, the potential for distracted driving, one of the leading causes of collisions in the U.S., remains imminent. The recall states, “MBAG determined that a potential safety risk cannot be ruled out and acting in an abundance of caution, decided to conduct a recall.”
Then, you have Tesla. While video games in moving cars headlines spike across the web, the electric powerhouse has yet to make a comment. Or even shed some concern for this safety issue. Elon Musk has never shied away from criticism in the past. In fact, just one year ago he was pushing for more in-gaming entertainment options in Tesla models. While the option to game is easily the greatest source of entertainment in the car, the main screen is too close to drivers’ line of vision.
Outlook for video games in cars
Mercedes and Tesla develop some of the most advanced vehicles in production. Yet even sometimes the greats make the wrong call. The competitive plight to include state-of-the-art car tech has seemingly caught the better judgement of some. And for others, the idea of redefining the driver experience takes greater precedence than maintaining car safety at times. Generally speaking, Tesla’s response does not surprise us one bit. Nor the fact that these automakers have very differing approaches to this safety concern.
While Mercedes airs on the side of caution, Tesla remains silent on the issue. Now that its on the docket of the NHTSA, we’ll need to stay posted on how video games in moving cars will get resolved.