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CHP Slows Down in Front of Tesla on Autopilot to Pull Over Sleeping Driver

Officers then pulled in front and began slowing to a stop, hoping the Tesla's driver-assist feature was on and would do the same.

The California Highway Patrol said it used the autopilot of a speeding Tesla to stop the car after its driver fell asleep behind the wheel.

The CHP said that around 3:30 a.m. Friday, officers spotted a Tesla Model S doing about 70 mph on U.S. 101 in Redwood City, California.

The CHP cruiser pulled behind and used its lights and siren but the driver didn't wake up.

Officers then pulled in front and began slowing to a stop, hoping the Tesla's driver-assist feature was on and would do the same.

Tesla hasn't confirmed whether the car was on autopilot but the tactic worked. The Tesla stopped.

Forty-five-year-old Alexander Samek of Los Altos was awakened and arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. It's unclear whether he has a lawyer.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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