What happened
The automaker’s short-range interactive motion sensor device uses unlicensed millimeter-wave sensors, which operate at higher power levels than currently allowed, according to Reuters.
The Elon Musk-led company claims that the device based on radar technology has advantages over other systems, including camera-based ones, because it can detect depth.
The system can “distinguish between a child and an object on the chair, which reduces the chance of false alarms,” Tesla explained. The company says the device can also detect micromovements such as breathing patterns and heart rate.
In addition, radar imaging can assess assumed body size to optimize airbag deployment in the event of an accident.
Why it matters
52 children died as a result of being left in hot cars in 2019, while 18 have died so far this year, according to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The FCC has invited public comments on Tesla’s request through Sept. 21, Reuters noted.
Price action
Tesla shares closed nearly 6.6% higher at $ 2,001.83 on Thursday and rose nearly 0.4% in the after-hours session.
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