Tesla changed the name of its advanced driver assistance system in Europe. The software is now called Tesla Assisted Driving instead of Full Self-Driving (Supervised). The change follows pushback from Germany’s transportation ministry.
Germany transport minister Steffen Bilger stated earlier this month that the previous name was misleading because the software does not perform the entire driving task. Bilger spoke with Tesla last month. Tesla suggested the name change during those talks according to an official release from the ministry. Bilger now plans to advocate for approval of Tesla Assisted Driving across Europe.
Germany supported the European name change
Tesla CEO Elon Musk thanked Bilger on X this week. Musk spent years pushing for regulatory approval of the software in Europe. He argued on X in June 2025 that the system would save lives. He also claimed in March of this year that the regulatory burden of the EU stifles innovation.
The Netherlands became the first European country to approve the supervised software in March of this year. Reuters reported on Wednesday that Tesla’s approval campaign relied on flawed studies and faulty safety research. The report also noted that the Dutch vehicle safety regulator faced intense pressure from Tesla and online supporters.
Tesla’s software handles parking, surface streets, and highways. Some owners use it for nearly all daily driving. Tesla recently updated the software to intervene if it senses an oncoming collision even when the system is inactive.
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The software remains central to federal investigations and civil lawsuits regarding crashes. The predecessor system called Autopilot was linked to dozens of fatalities. Tesla discontinued Autopilot earlier this year following a court ruling about deceptive marketing.
The name change could help Tesla achieve wider adoption in Europe. This adoption could unlock a large new revenue stream.
Steffen Bilger will advocate for approval of Tesla Assisted Driving across Europe ahead of an upcoming EU-wide vote.
