Tesla boss promises to fix Model 3 braking problem with over-the-air software update
Consumer organisation found discrepancies in all-electric car’s stopping distance, which was longer than that of a 2.5-tonne pick-up truck
Tesla boss Elon Musk has launched an investigation into issues uncovered with the braking system of its all-electric Model 3.
The American magazine Consumer Reports, which stringently tests new US-market cars, uncovered the problem during repeated emergency stop tests. The test sees the car braking to a stop from 60mph multiple times, with cool-down periods to prevent the brakes from overheating.
The Model 3’s first test saw it come to a halt in 130 feet – a good result – but subsequent tests saw braking distances increase. Later stops took up to 152 feet – a greater distance than that of the Ford F-150 pick-up truck.
“Consumer Reports measured the Model 3’s stopping distance at 152 feet from 60mph, which was far worse than any contemporary car we’ve tested,” said the publication.
Musk responded quickly to the report. “Very strange,” he said on Twitter. “Model 3 is designed to have super good stopping distance and other reviewers have confirmed this. If there is vehicle variability, we will figure it out and address it.”
In a later comment, he revealed that the fix would take the shape of an over-the-air software update – something that’s never been done before in the industry. “Looks like this can be fixed with a firmware update. Will be rolling that out in a few days.
“Tesla won’t stop until Model 3 has better braking than any remotely comparable car.”
Adding that the matter was being looked into, the chief executive also claimed that Consumer Reports’ testing was conducted with a very early production model, and requested that the publication try again with a newer car.
In a statement released after Musk’s reply, Jake Fisher, the magazine’s director of car testing, said: “CR is pleased that Tesla is taking our braking test results seriously. That they are committed to implementing a fix and improving stopping distances on the Model 3 is good for everyone on the road.
“If Tesla can update the brakes over the air – an industry first – we’d be happy to retest our Model 3.”
