In a team providing driverless cars for a well-known on-demand car-sharing service, we discovered a key problem. Through rigorous testing, we found that the first production self-driving cars had a design flaw that dramatically increased the likelihood that these cars would kill a pedestrian. According to the IET Code of Conduct, our primary duty as engineers is the public interest. The guidelines clearly state the need to ensure public safety and well-being in all engineering activities. In addition, the IET’s guidelines on whistling give members the power to speak out when public safety is threatened. Given the seriousness of the potential risks, our team decided we had to act in accordance with our ethical obligations. We initiated internal discussions to re-evaluate the sensor system and explore options for redesign. At the same time, we documented our findings and prepared a detailed report detailing the deficiencies and their possible consequences. After careful consideration and in keeping with the IET guidelines, we have chosen to report the issue beyond internal channels. We formally notified senior management of this defect and the need for urgent rectification prior to any vehicle deployment. If the response is inadequate, we are prepared to go public with our concerns, as the IET’s provisions protect and encourage blowing outside when public safety is threatened. The company’s ideal response should be to take immediate action to investigate and correct the reported deficiencies. Ethically, companies should prioritize public safety over other considerations, such as financial impact or brand reputation. Transparent communication with stakeholders, including regulators and the public, to explain the problem and the steps taken to ensure safety is essential.
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