EU Commission Greenlights Tesla Autopilot Pathway: Two Routes to European Approval

The EU Commission just released critical guidance on autonomous vehicle certification. Tesla's FSD system now has a viable route forward in Europe—and it's more straightforward than previously expected.

Here's the framework: FSD approval can move through either Article 39 exemptions OR the expanded UN regulatory rules, depending on testing outcomes from the Dutch Road Authority (RDW). This dual-pathway approach signals the Commission's pragmatic stance on autonomous tech deployment.

What this means: Instead of waiting for complete harmonization across all EU member states, manufacturers get flexibility. The RDW testing becomes the validation checkpoint. Article 39 exemptions historically allow member states to grant temporary approvals for innovative tech during the rule-making process. Coupling this with UN rule expansion creates breathing room for genuine innovation while maintaining safety oversight.

This marks a notable shift from the Commission's earlier stance—moving from restrictive to enabling when it comes to autonomous driving capabilities. The certification path is now clearer, though still conditional on proving safety standards through rigorous testing.