U.S. Launches Formal Safety Investigation Into Tesla's Autopilot System
Federal regulators open a probe into 765,000 Tesla vehicles following multiple crashes into parked emergency vehicles. The investigation signals a stricter government stance on automated driving technology.
The U.S. government opens a formal investigation into Tesla's Autopilot system after a series of crashes involving parked emergency vehicles. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) identifies 11 crashes since 2018 in which Teslas operating on Autopilot or Traffic Aware Cruise Control strike first responder vehicles at scenes marked by flashing lights, flares, or cones. These collisions result in 17 injuries and one death.
This sweeping probe covers approximately 765,000 vehicles, encompassing nearly every Tesla sold in the U.S. from the 2014 through 2021 model years, including the Models Y, X, S, and 3. The investigation reflects a significant shift in approach under the Biden administration, as NHTSA abandons its previous reluctance to regulate automated technology out of fear of slowing its development.
The National Transportation Safety Board previously investigates similar Tesla crashes and recommends that NHTSA and Tesla limit Autopilot's use to areas where it operates safely. The safety board also suggests requiring Tesla to implement a more robust system to ensure drivers remain attentive while using the feature, though NHTSA has not yet acted on these recommendations.