Tesla Owners Rely on Full Self-Driving 95% of the Time

Some Tesla owners are using the company's Full Self-Driving software for a significant portion of their trips, with one owner reporting use of the system around 95% of the time. This is despite the technology still being considered a Level 2 driver-assistance system, which requires a human driver to be in control at all times.

The person behind the wheel is responsible for the vehicle at all times, even when the Full Self-Driving software is steering, braking, and controlling speed. This means that drivers must remain attentive and ready to take control of the vehicle, even if the software is handling most of the driving tasks.

One Tesla owner, Rohullah Hashimi, uses the Full Self-Driving software around 95% of the time. Hashimi, a full-time Uber driver, uses the supervised system in his 2026 base Model Y and has reported that the vehicle can navigate complex routes, including neighborhood streets and construction zones, with ease.

Tesla's Full Self-Driving software uses nine cameras to navigate the road and make decisions. This is in contrast to other companies, such as Waymo, which operates Level 4 vehicles without human drivers within mapped areas and uses a more extensive combination of cameras and other sensors.

## Why it matters The use of Full Self-Driving software by Tesla owners highlights the gap between what the technology appears capable of doing and what drivers are legally allowed to trust it to do. In California, where Hashimi uses the system, advanced driver-assistance systems like Full Self-Driving are allowed, but they do not relieve motorists of responsibility. This means that drivers can still be held liable for accidents, even if the software is controlling the vehicle. Additionally, texting while driving remains illegal in California, even when the Full Self-Driving software is controlling the vehicle.

The fact that some Tesla owners are using the Full Self-Driving software for the vast majority of their trips suggests that the technology is becoming increasingly reliable and capable. However, it also highlights the need for clearer regulations and guidelines around the use of autonomous vehicles. As the technology continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see more widespread adoption of Full Self-Driving software, and it will be important for lawmakers and regulators to keep pace with these developments.

## What happens next As Tesla continues to develop and refine its Full Self-Driving software, it is likely that we will see more widespread adoption of the technology. Elon Musk has promoted a strategy for advancing Tesla's autonomous technology using lower-cost hardware and a large number of vehicles on the road, which could help to improve the software and make it more reliable. However, it will be important for regulators and lawmakers to provide clear guidance and oversight to ensure that the technology is used safely and responsibly.