ANCAP launches investigation into Tesla Model Y

The Australian New Car Assessment Program, or ANCAP, has confirmed that it is investigating the Tesla Model Y’s recent five-star safety rating following allegations made about the model on social media.

It has been alleged that Model Ys tested by the independent body featured modified ANCAP support software code.

The allegation has prompted speculation that the change utilises geo-fencing to potentially change the way the model’s safety features performed while at ANCAP’s facilities, potentially aiding the model’s test results.

The discovery came via a Twitter user named ‘green’. “Tesla just added ANCAP support in their code,” they posted. “This is in addition to already existing “I VISTA” (Chinese testing grounds), EuroNCAP and Korea NCAP.”

In a statement issued to Australian motoring media outlet Wheels, ANCAP confirmed it is looking into the allegations. “We’re aware of the claims made on Twitter and are looking into it,” they said. Tesla has yet to issue comment.

Green, a noted ‘Tesla hacker’, posts frequently about Tesla, with his recent posts including Tesla release notes, parts catalogue excerpts, and other updates. They have more than 50,000 followers on Twitter, and purport to own a Tesla Model X.

The Model Y’s ANCAP test results broke two industry records, with the model awarded a five-star rating overall.

As previously reported, the Model Y scored 97% for Adult Occupant Protection, 89% for Child Occupant Protection, 82% for Vulnerable Road User Protection, and 98% for Safety Assist.

The first and last figures represent records for vehicles tested by the independent body, with the nameplate’s Safety Assist score now in question.

Green notes that Tesla geo-fences some of its features to prevent or allow their use in certain areas, citing that the brand disables the ability to use its Full Self Driving beta in downtown Vancouver.