Tesla and the Alliance argue that cameras could be just as safe while offering gains in aerodynamics. This is because side mirrors have to jut out farther from the car to be effective, and that creates drag.

“In light of future greenhouse gas and corporate average fuel economy requirements beginning in 2017,” their petition says, “camera-based systems represent an opportunity to increase vehicle fuel efficiency through improved aerodynamics by eliminating externally mounted mirrors.”

The filling goes hand in hand with the latest ruling by NHTSA that will require rearview cameras in all light-duty vehicles produced after mid-2018. Tesla [...]