NHTSA opens investigation into Tesla driverless taxis

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced on Monday that it has opened a formal investigation into Tesla’s latest self‑driving vehicle, the Model Y Full Self‑Driving (FSD) beta. The probe follows a series of reported incidents in which the vehicle’s autonomous system allegedly failed to recognize and appropriately respond to road hazards, prompting concerns about compliance with federal safety standards.

NHTSA investigators will examine data from crash reports, software logs, and driver testimonies to determine whether the FSD system meets the agency’s requirements for safe operation. The agency’s Office of Defects Investigation will also assess Tesla’s internal safety processes, including how updates to the autonomous software are tested and deployed. The investigation is part of a broader regulatory effort to evaluate advanced driver‑assistance technologies as they become more prevalent on public roads.

The outcome of the inquiry could lead to recommendations for corrective actions, mandatory recalls, or further regulatory measures, depending on the findings. Tesla has stated it will cooperate fully with NHTSA and continue to refine its self‑driving capabilities while emphasizing the system’s safety record. The investigation underscores the ongoing scrutiny of autonomous vehicle technology by federal authorities.