Gary Zhou 
A third-party Tesla accessory manufacturer is taking advantage of Consumer Reports’ recent trick test by selling a detachable weight that can be used to simulate a human hand on a Tesla steering wheel. The computer, made by a company called “Taptes,” could fool the vehicle into allowing Autopilot or Full Self-Driving to function without a driver present.
The product’s explanation aims to take advantage of Tesla’s driver monitoring features, which include keeping one hand on the steering wheel at all times to demonstrate that the driver is able to take over in an emergency. The exploitative product is similar to the one used by Consumer Reports to fool Tesla Autopilot in a recent test aimed at demonstrating that the company’s cars could be fooled into driving themselves. Many members of the Tesla community who are familiar with the capabilities of Autopilot and the FSD Suite have criticized the evaluation.
The “Taptes Model 3 Y Counterweight Ring Autopilot Accessories, Automatic Assisted Driving AP FSD Steering Wheel Weight Booster” is described by the company on its website:
“TAPTES Model 3 Model Y steering wheel auxiliary booster assists you to control the steering wheel, so you can take a break while driving. A great addition to long driving travel.”
The development of this gimmick weight is a reckless attempt to gain publicity and revenue. It could lead to more misinformation being spread in the media about Tesla’s semi-autonomous driving capabilities. Tesla does not believe, and has never said, that its cars are self-driving. The organization expects drivers to maintain vigilance when operating the vehicle, as well as owners to pay close attention to the road and the vehicle’s surroundings.
As previously mentioned, Taptes invented this cheat device in response to the Consumer Reports test. Using a makeshift weight that hangs from the steering wheel, Consumer Reports was able to trick the Tesla into driving without anyone in the seat. The article stated that this was proof that a Tesla could drive without a driver, but in fact, special equipment would be needed to get the car to drive itself.
TAPTES is in no way affiliated with Tesla. The company states on its website:
“TAPTES® official Tesla accessories shop, not affiliated with or endorsed by Tesla Motors. It is neither inferred nor implied that products sold by TAPTES are authorized by or in any way connected to Tesla Motors. All manufacturer names, symbols, and descriptions used in our images and text are used solely for identification purposes only. Tesla Model S, Model X, Model 3 and Model Y are trademarks of Tesla Motors.”
