U.S. launches probe into nearly 2.9 million Tesla cars over crashes linked to self-driving system
NHTSA Investigating Nearly 2.9 Million Tesla Vehicles for Traffic Safety Violations
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has launched an investigation into almost 2.9 million Tesla vehicles following reports of traffic safety violations related to the electric car maker’s Full Self-Driving system. The probe focuses on Tesla vehicles equipped with “FSD (Supervised)” and “FSD (Beta)” versions of the self-driving systems, which require a fully attentive driver engaged in the driving task at all times.
Instances of traffic violations reported include Tesla vehicles with FSD driving through red traffic signals and making lane changes into oncoming traffic. The NHTSA has received reports of 58 safety violations associated with Tesla vehicles equipped with FSD, including crashes, fires, and 23 injuries.
Previous Investigations and Concerns
U.S. regulators have been investigating Tesla’s automated driving systems for over three years due to safety concerns raised by numerous crashes. A notable incident involved a Seattle-area Tesla crash in 2024 that resulted in a fatality while using the Full Self-Driving system.
Lawmakers and safety regulators are questioning the safety and viability of Tesla’s automated driving system on a larger scale. A new law in California will hold driverless car companies accountable for traffic violations starting next year.
Additional Investigations and Developments
Aside from the FSD investigation, NHTSA is also looking into Tesla’s “summon” technology, which has reportedly caused minor accidents in parking lots. Another probe last year focused on driver-assistance features in 2.4 million Teslas after crashes in low-visibility conditions, including a fatal pedestrian accident.
In August, NHTSA initiated an investigation into Tesla’s alleged delayed reporting of crashes to the agency, as required by regulations. CEO Elon Musk is facing pressure to demonstrate that the latest advancements in driver-assistance features address these safety concerns.
Future Plans and Response
Elon Musk has pledged to have hundreds of thousands of self-driving Tesla cars and Tesla robotaxis on the roads by the end of next year. Tesla’s stock fell 1.4% following the NHTSA investigation announcement, and the company has not yet commented on the matter.
