The past few months have been testing for Tesla Motors. In the wake of a fatal accident in July this year, where one of its vehicles collided with a truck while in autopilot mode, questions have been raised about the efficacy of the self-driving feature. 

Since the fatal incident, Tesla has stated that an improved version of the system will be rolled out to compatible vehicles, but some are still concerned about the company's product language. The German government in particular has taken issue with Tesla using the term Autopilot, as it may suggest to drivers that they don't have to pay attention to the road. 

The country's Federal Motor Transport Authority recently informed Tesla that the Autopilot mode is in fact an "assistive device" and the feature does not convert the company's cars into "a highly automated vehicle that can be operated without constant attention of the driver," as has been suggested. 

While Tesla has not confirmed whether or not it will remove the term and its accompanying language, a Tesla spokesperson did provide a statement to Reuters on the subject. The spokesperson emphasised that Tesla advises all its drivers to remain alert on the road, and that the Autopilot system is designed to provide, "an added layer of safety when compared to purely manual driving." 

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