🔗 Share this article American Regulators Initiate Inquiry into Autonomous Tesla Vehicles Following Series of Crashes US automobile safety regulators have started an investigation into Tesla cars equipped with the full self-driving technology due to traffic-safety violations after numerous crashes. Regulatory Body Identifies Safety Regulation Violations The NHTSA stated that the electric carmaker's self-driving assistance system, which requires drivers to remain attentive and take control when necessary, had caused vehicle behaviour that violated traffic safety laws”. This early investigation by the NHTSA marks the initial phase before potentially seeking a withdrawal of the vehicles if the agency determines they pose a risk to road safety. Alarming Case Findings The agency stated it had received accounts of nearly 3 million Tesla cars running red lights and traveling against the incorrect direction during lane changes while using the technology. NHTSA confirmed it has six documented cases in which a Tesla car, operating with FSD engaged, “came to an intersection with a red light, proceeded to drive into the intersection despite the red light and was later involved in a crash with other cars in the intersection”. The authority reported that four crashes had caused one or more injuries. Additional Safety Concerns The NHTSA stated it has found 18 complaints and one media report claiming that Tesla vehicles, operating at an junction with FSD engaged, did not stay stationary for the entire time of a red light, failed to stop fully, or did not properly recognize and show the proper traffic signal state in the car's display”. Several reporters also stated that FSD “failed to give warnings of the technology's intended actions as the car was approaching a red light”. Continuing Regulatory Scrutiny Tesla's FSD, which is more advanced than its basic autopilot feature, has been under investigation by NHTSA for twelve months. In October 2024, the agency started an investigation into 2.4 million Tesla vehicles using FSD after four reported collisions in conditions of poor visibility, such as sun glare, mist or airborne dust. One such accident, in last year, was fatal. Company's Official Stance Tesla's website states that FSD is “designed for use with a completely alert driver, who has their hands on the wheel and is ready to take over at any moment. While these capabilities are designed to become more capable, the presently active functions do not render the vehicle autonomous.” Automated vehicle technology continue to face increased scrutiny from regulatory bodies as the technology advances and practical implementation reveals potential challenges with current implementations.