WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The U.S. auto safety regulator has launched the Tesla self-driving probe into 2.4 million Tesla vehicles with Full Self-Driving software. This investigation follows four reported collisions involving the vehicles. One of these incidents includes a fatal crash in 2023. #TeslaSelfDrivingProbe
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) preliminary evaluation is the first step toward a possible recall. This action occurs if safety risks are considered unreasonable.
This increased examination of Tesla’s advanced driver assistance system coincides with CEO Elon Musk’s intention to prioritize self-driving technology and robotaxis. Tesla is currently facing heightened competition and reduced demand in its auto sector.
Recently, Musk introduced the two-seater “Cybercab” robotaxi concept, which lacks a steering wheel and pedals. This vehicle would rely on cameras and artificial intelligence for navigation, but would require NHTSA approval due to the absence of human controls.
NHTSA’s inquiry was prompted by four crash reports involving FSD activation under low visibility conditions, such as sun glare, fog, or dust. One incident resulted in a pedestrian fatality in Rimrock, Arizona, in November 2023, when a 2021 Tesla Model Y struck them. Another crash being investigated has also resulted in reported injuries.
The investigation includes Model S and X vehicles from 2016 to 2024 that have the optional Full Self-Driving (FSD) system. It also covers Model 3 cars from 2017 to 2024, Model Y vehicles from 2020 to 2024, and 2023-2024 Cybertrucks.
The company has not responded to requests for comments regarding the probe. However, its shares rose by 0.1% during early trading.
According to Tesla’s website, its FSD software requires active driver supervision in on-road vehicles and does not render them autonomous.
NHTSA is reviewing the ability of FSD’s engineering controls to “detect and respond appropriately to reduced roadway visibility conditions.”
The agency is investigating whether other FSD crashes have taken place in conditions with reduced roadway visibility. Additionally, it is examining if Tesla has updated or modified the FSD system in ways that may impact performance in these conditions. #TeslaSelfDrivingProbe
Visibility Issues in the Tesla Self-Driving Probe
Additionally, the inquiry seeks to determine if other similar incidents occurred under reduced roadway visibility conditions. These conditions include sun glare, fog, and airborne dust. Thus, the Tesla self-driving probe will also explore if Tesla made any updates that could influence FSD performance.
