Thousands of Illegal Tesla Cars in Belgium!
This page is translated from the original post "Des milliers de Tesla illégales en Belgique !" in French.
- 27/09/2025 18:12
Belgium has just declared the famous surveillance system Sentinelle integrated into Tesla vehicles illegal.
The “Sentinelle mode” has become a key selling point for Tesla. Active even when the car is parked, this feature turns the brand’s models into true wheel-mounted guards. In case of vandalism or an attempted theft, external cameras record the scene and save it to a USB drive. A tool considered essential by many owners, but now deemed illegal in Belgium.
Federal Digital Minister Vanessa Matz recalls that the 2007 camera law prohibits individuals from filming public spaces. However, this is precisely what Teslas do by capturing sidewalks, streets, and passersby. The Data Protection Authority, already handling complaints, also relies on the jurisprudence of the EU Court of Justice, which demands strict compliance with the principles of necessity and proportionality.
Privacy over Security
The consequences could be significant. In Belgium, it is estimated that 21,000 Teslas are effectively “outlawed” if their owners use Sentinelle. Sanctions are planned, with theoretical fines of up to 20 million euros. In practice, sentences handed down remain limited, but the message is clear: zero tolerance is underway.
The risk for Tesla extends far beyond Belgium. If this position sets a legal precedent, other member states could require disabling the system on their territory. This would force the Californian manufacturer to rethink its approach and modify its software across Europe.
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The issue raises a burning dilemma: how to balance property protection and respect for privacy? For Tesla, the battle is just beginning. If Europe aligns with Belgium, one of its major marketing arguments could vanish.
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