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by spookthesunset 2311 days ago
> People incorrectly interpreting a word is their own fault and are in need of education.

Do you honestly think Tesla called it "auto pilot" with your pedantic, "technically correct" definition in mind? Or do you think they intentionally called it "auto pilot" to invoke a sense of "hey, this thing can drive itself!". I mean, in some of their marketing they even have a whimsical blurb about how "the driver is only present to make the lawyers happy".

Let's be honest here. Product naming is marketing designed to invoke certain emotions. Calling it "auto pilot" instead of "driver assist" or whatever most other manufacturers call it was very intentionally done.

2 comments

> I mean, in some of their marketing they even have a whimsical blurb about how "the driver is only present to make the lawyers happy".

Exactly. You can read one piece of copy about Summon, that says "Have your finger on this button. Maintain visual contact and pay attention with vehicle at all times", and on the same page. "Have your car come to you while you are distracted by a fussing child".

It's all very nudge nudge wink wink.

Well yeah, they have to do that to for marketing. Its smart thing to do. I would do the same.