Tesla banned customers from using its self-driving tech to work for Uber
PAUL J. RICHARDS/AFP
The rule is listed on Tesla's website, and was spotted by Ars Technica's Jonathan Gitlin. "Please note also that using a self-driving Tesla for car sharing and ride hailing for friends and family is fine," it warns, "but doing so for revenue purposes will only be permissible on the Tesla network, details of which will be released next year."
(The Tesla network is going to be a ride-hailing/taxi network run by the electric car company, though it has yet to officially launch.)
Tesla is effectively telling its customers that even if they buy its cars, they can't use them in a way that would benefit its competitors.
The prohibition raises interesting questions around ownership: Does Tesla have the right to tell people what they can and can't do with their vehicle after they purchase it? And even if the contract permits Tesla to place these kinds of restrictions, will people wade through the legalese and realise it before buying the car?
Automation will kill car ownership. Tesla may become Uber before Uber can become Tesla. https://t.co/3QkAopXEym
- koush (@koush) October 20, 2016
This is just wow. New tech business models are all about stealing your data and reducing your ownership rights. https://t.co/8U4rBdRHX5
- David Antoš (@jilm) October 20, 2016
Tesla's website specifically mentions ride hailing, but the term "revenue purposes" suggests a broader application of this rule. It could feasibly be interpreted as meaning the autonomous driving technology cannot be used for other commercial purposes, like deliveries.
After all, Uber is branching out into delivery services with UberRUSH; it's an area that would also make sense for Tesla to explore with its Tesla network.
Tesla did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Here's the full section from Tesla's website on self-driving tech:
Tesla
- I spent $2,000 for 7 nights in a 179-square-foot room on one of the world's largest cruise ships. Take a look inside my cabin.
- Saudi Arabia wants China to help fund its struggling $500 billion Neom megaproject. Investors may not be too excited.
- Colon cancer rates are rising in young people. If you have two symptoms you should get a colonoscopy, a GI oncologist says.
- Catan adds climate change to the latest edition of the world-famous board game
- Tired of blatant misinformation in the media? This video game can help you and your family fight fake news!
- Tired of blatant misinformation in the media? This video game can help you and your family fight fake news!
- JNK India IPO allotment – How to check allotment, GMP, listing date and more
- Indian Army unveils selfie point at Hombotingla Pass ahead of 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas