EVwire brief: Tesla VP of AI Software Ashok Elluswamy suggested that Tesla’s recent FSD (Supervised) approval in the Netherlands could unlock adoption beyond Europe.
He shared his comment in a post on social media platform X in a response to a longtime FSD tester who predicted that the list of FSD countries is about to rise.
The European regulation is followed by a lot more countries than just the ones in EU.
Context:
Elluswamy’s comments followed the RDW’s approval of Tesla FSD (Supervised), the first such clearance in Europe.
The approval came after more than 18 months of testing and enables the system to be deployed in the Dutch market, with rollout now starting on AI4 vehicles.
In its announcement, the RDW noted that its tests have shown that FSD (Supervised) is safer than rival solutions and makes the roads safer.
Due to the continuous strict monitoring of the driver in the vehicle, the system is safer than other driver assistance systems… The proper use of this driver's system makes a positive contribution to road safety.
UNECE framework extends impact beyond Europe
Elluswamy’s remarks highlight a key regulatory dynamic: European vehicle standards are not limited to the EU.
The approval falls under the UNECE WP.29 framework, a global system adopted or recognized by more than 50 countries, including the UK, Norway, Switzerland, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and others.
Because many of these countries align with or accept European type approvals, a single regulatory win can reduce duplication and accelerate approvals elsewhere.
The RDW’s approval is expected to pave the way for FSD (Supervised’s) rollout to other European countries
With the Netherlands acting as the first entry point, Tesla may now be positioned to expand FSD (Supervised) more quickly across Europe and other aligned markets.
Tesla has already indicated that a broader European rollout could begin as early as summer 2026.
Despite the momentum, FSD (Supervised) remains a Level 2 driver-assistance system for now. Drivers are still legally responsible for vehicle operation and must remain attentive at all times.
The RDW has emphasized this, and Tesla shared a video showing users exactly how to use FSD (Supervised) safely:
Source: Ashok Elluswamy on X
DIG DEEPER into the Tesla industry news with our dedicated TESLAWIRE page. And don’t forget to subscribe to our EV industry newsletter to join 14,000+ EV geeks.
