U.S. Government Investigates 2.4M Tesla Vehicles Over Full Self-Driving Crashes
The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened an investigation into 2.4 million Tesla vehicles equipped with Full Self-Driving (FSD) software following four reported crashes, including a fatal incident. The investigation focuses on Tesla’s handling of reduced roadway visibility, such as sun glare, fog, or dust, during the accidents.
Fatal Collision Triggers Probe
The NHTSA initiated a preliminary evaluation after multiple collisions involving Tesla vehicles where the FSD system was active in challenging visibility conditions. One crash resulted in a pedestrian being fatally struck, while another caused injuries. The investigation covers Tesla’s 2016-2024 Model S and X, 2017-2024 Model 3, 2020-2024 Model Y, and the 2023-2024 Cybertruck.
This evaluation is the first step toward a potential recall if the NHTSA determines that the vehicles present an unreasonable safety risk. Tesla’s FSD technology, a major focus for CEO Elon Musk, is under scrutiny despite Tesla’s claims that the software requires active driver supervision and does not make the vehicles fully autonomous.
Focus on Reduced Visibility
The NHTSA’s investigation is centered on the ability of Tesla’s FSD system to respond effectively to reduced visibility conditions. The agency is also examining whether other similar crashes have occurred and whether Tesla has made updates to the FSD system that might affect its performance in such conditions.
Additionally, the NHTSA will assess Tesla’s evaluation of any system modifications and their safety impact. Tesla’s reliance on a “camera-only” approach, without backup sensors like lidar or radar, raises concerns about the system’s effectiveness in low-visibility environments.
Tesla’s Push Toward Autonomy and Legal Scrutiny
As Tesla continues to push for advancements in self-driving technology, it faces increasing legal and regulatory challenges. The FSD system has been involved in several fatal accidents, including a recent incident where a Tesla Model S in FSD mode fatally struck a motorcyclist in Seattle.
Despite these issues, Musk remains committed to developing autonomous driving technology. Last week, Tesla revealed its “Cybercab,” a robotaxi concept with no steering wheel or pedals. However, the company would need NHTSA approval to deploy such vehicles, and the current investigation may further complicate Tesla’s plans.
Competition and Challenges Ahead
Tesla faces growing competition in the autonomous vehicle market, where rivals use advanced sensors like lidar and radar to enhance safety in complex driving conditions. Experts warn that Tesla’s camera-only system could face significant challenges, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Jeff Schuster, vice president at GlobalData, noted that “weather conditions can impact the camera’s ability to see things,” adding that regulatory oversight will likely play a critical role in the future of Tesla’s autonomous driving ambitions.
Tesla has previously recalled over 2 million vehicles in the U.S. to install safeguards in its Autopilot system. However, the NHTSA continues to investigate whether those measures are sufficient, leaving the future of Tesla’s Full Self-Driving technology uncertain.