The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has initiated a significant investigation into approximately 2.9 million Tesla vehicles. This inquiry addresses serious concerns related to Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system, which is accused of multiple traffic safety violations.
NHTSA Investigation Details
The NHTSA has received more than 50 reports outlining potential safety issues linked to the FSD system. Among these reports are:
- 14 incidents involving crashes
- 23 reported injuries
Specifically, the investigation highlights instances where Tesla’s FSD system has allegedly allowed vehicles to:
- Proceed through red traffic signals
- Navigate against the designated direction of travel during lane changes
Background of Concerns
This investigation marks a response to growing scrutiny from lawmakers regarding Tesla’s advanced driver assistance technologies. The NHTSA’s review includes six reports in which vehicles with FSD engaged traveled into intersections while facing red lights, resulting in collisions with other vehicles. Notably, four of these crashes resulted in injuries.
Recent Developments from Tesla
Tesla has recently issued a software update for its FSD system. However, complaints have surfaced regarding the system’s failure to correctly identify traffic signals. One driver reported that FSD failed to stop at red lights while stopping at green lights, raising urgent safety concerns.
Potential for Recall
The ongoing investigation is classified as a preliminary evaluation and could lead to a recall if NHTSA concludes that the FSD system poses an unreasonable safety risk. The agency is also assessing how FSD behaves as vehicles approach railroad crossings.
In recent discussions, Senators Ed Markey and Richard Blumenthal emphasized the increasing incidents of near-collisions, pressing for a thorough investigation into FSD’s performance.
Previous Investigations
The NHTSA has not only focused on FSD but has also scrutinized other Tesla features. In December 2022, it launched an inquiry into 2.6 million vehicles due to reports of crashes involving another automated feature that allows remote movement of cars. Moreover, Tesla’s pilot program for self-driving robotaxis in Austin, Texas, launched in June, has drawn additional regulatory interest.
This investigation adds to NHTSA’s ongoing efforts to ensure safety in automotive technology, particularly as advancements in driver assistance systems continue to evolve. Stakeholders will be closely monitoring how Tesla responds and whether further actions, including recalls, are deemed necessary.
