Belgium Considers Fast-Tracking Tesla's Self-Driving Tech

The Flanders region in Belgium is contemplating swift adoption of Tesla's 'full self-driving' software, buoyed by its recent provisional approval in the Netherlands. This makes the Netherlands the first EU country to permit its use, requiring drivers to remain attentive despite the car's autonomous capabilities.

Transport Minister Annick De Ridder announced on X that she has requested documentation from Tesla, eyeing a potential fast-track approval for Flanders. De Ridder aims to make a decision on the feasibility by the week's end, emphasizing the importance of fostering innovation in a safe manner to maintain the region's forward-thinking reputation.

While Elon Musk is optimistic about EU-wide approval, skepticism persists among regulators in Sweden, Finland, Denmark, and Norway. As the central Belgian government leaves the decision to regional authorities, Tesla has sought approval from both Flanders and the French-speaking region of Wallonia, with Brussels yet to comment on the matter.

(With inputs from agencies.)