The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration launched a significant investigation into Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system following a fatal pedestrian collision and concerns about its performance in challenging visibility conditions. The investigation gained particular attention shortly after Tesla CEO Elon Musk announced plans for “unsupervised FSD” in Texas and California, despite ongoing safety concerns.
NHTSA Launches Major Safety Probe
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration initiated a comprehensive investigation into Tesla’s Full Self-Driving system following serious safety concerns. The investigation stemmed from a fatal incident where a Tesla using FSD struck and killed a pedestrian. The probe specifically examined how FSD performed during conditions with reduced visibility, such as fog and glaring sunlight.
Scope of Investigation
NHTSA’s preliminary evaluation targeted Tesla vehicles manufactured between 2016 and 2024. The investigation included Model S, Model X, Model 3, Model Y, and the recently released Cybertruck. The agency examined FSD’s ability to detect and respond appropriately to reduced roadway visibility conditions.
Software Update Analysis
Investigators turned their attention to Tesla’s over-the-air software updates for the FSD system. The agency sought to understand the timing and purpose of these updates, which Tesla marketed as “Full Self-Driving (Supervised).” Officials examined the capabilities introduced by these updates and their impact on safety.
Historical Collision Data
NHTSA’s records revealed statistics regarding Tesla’s driver assistance systems. The agency tracked 1,399 incidents where Tesla’s driver assistance features were engaged within 30 seconds of a collision. Among these incidents, 31 resulted in fatalities. These statistics covered the period leading up to October 2024.
Vehicle Population Affected
The investigation impacted Tesla’s entire lineup of electric vehicles equipped with FSD capability. The probe included vehicles manufactured over eight years. The affected population consisted of both older and newer Tesla models.
FSD System Evolution
Tesla’s FSD system underwent several changes in its marketing and implementation. The company shifted its description to a “partial driving automation system” from previous terminology. Tesla offered the system as a premium driver assistance option. The company previously provided monthlong free trials to U.S. drivers.
Regulatory Oversight
NHTSA’s investigation represented a significant step in regulatory oversight of autonomous driving technologies. The agency established specific protocols for tracking collisions involving advanced driver assistance systems. The investigation focused on understanding both the technical and operational aspects of FSD. Regulators sought to establish clear safety standards for autonomous driving features.
Corporate Response
Tesla’s response to the investigation remained limited during the initial phase. The company faced increased scrutiny over its autonomous driving claims. The investigation coincided with Tesla’s continued promotion of FSD capabilities.
Future Plans Under Scrutiny
Tesla’s ambitious plans for autonomous driving faced new challenges with this investigation. The company announced intentions to implement “unsupervised FSD” in specific regions. These plans targeted Texas and California as initial markets.
Safety Concerns
The investigation highlighted ongoing concerns about safety in autonomous driving technology. NHTSA focused on specific environmental conditions affecting FSD performance. The agency examined how the system handled various visibility challenges.
Industry Impact
The investigation’s implications extended beyond Tesla to the broader autonomous vehicle industry. Regulatory scrutiny increased for all companies developing self-driving technology. The probe established new precedents for safety evaluations, which influenced industry standards for autonomous driving systems.
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