NHTSA opens investigation into Tesla Cybercab over missing safety features

Elon Musk’s prototype “Cybercab,” a self‑driving vehicle unveiled by Tesla, has drawn scrutiny from federal regulators after it was driven on public roads with several components that federal law mandates. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced an audit query (AQ) to review the data and processes Tesla used to certify the Cybercab, focusing on whether the vehicle complies with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS). The agency’s inquiry centers on the absence of traditional design elements such as side‑view mirrors, foot pedals and a steering wheel—features that are required for passenger vehicles under current safety regulations.

The NHTSA’s investigation will examine how Tesla justified the omission of these elements and whether the vehicle’s autonomous systems meet the safety thresholds established for conventional cars. The audit query seeks detailed technical documentation and certification records to determine if the Cybercab can be legally operated on U.S. roads. Tesla’s response and any corrective actions will shape the regulatory pathway for future autonomous‑driving prototypes, highlighting the tension between innovative vehicle designs and established safety standards.