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Comment by kvhdude | Hacker News Reader

English is not my first language. I am confused by the blatant use of the term "Auto Pilot". Does it not suggest more automation than is currently feasible? Why not intelligent assist? Why is tesla/musk getting a pass here?

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I think a lot of people want to be pedantic, and point out that an aeroplane's autopilot can't do all of it itself, and you therefore still need pilots to manage an airliner.

However, that's because a lot of people on HN understands how a plane's autopilot works, but most people do not. They assume it is what they think a plane's autopilot is supposed to be. Since a plane could technically take off, fly and land itself by wire, but only under the best of conditions.

At least, that's my theory.

No, you are exactly right. “On autopilot” is English vernacular for “without thinking or paying attention”. It completely sends with wrong message, and the lawyers will have a field day with this in court.

Autopilot in an airplane is similar. It can do a bit and make the trip easier, but it's not going to dodge a rock that happens to fall from the sky. It's a pretty simple system that really just relies on instrumentation. It's not using any fancy algorithms to make bold maneuvers. I might wager than Tesla's is doing more.

Then maybe using the Autopilot or a Tesla vehicle should be subject to rigorous training and repetitive simulator sessions every 6 months to ensure that the drivers are using it correctly and are aware of its current capacity.

If it’s like an airplane, should be regulated like an airplane.

Yeah but most people are not aware of that. To them it’s a button you push that flies the plane. This is why the marketing around this term is so deceptive.

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