In a significant development for the automotive industry, federal safety regulators have initiated contact with Tesla just one day after the company launched rides in its branded robotaxis in Austin, Texas. This interaction comes in the wake of multiple videos circulating online that appear to demonstrate Tesla robotaxis violating traffic laws in South Austin, where the company is currently offering rides to selected customers.
According to a report from Bloomberg, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reached out to Tesla to address these concerns. NHTSA confirmed to TechCrunch that they are actively gathering information from the automaker regarding the incidents. In an official statement, NHTSA expressed, “We are aware of the referenced incidents and are in contact with the manufacturer to gather additional information.” The agency emphasized its commitment to enforcing vehicle safety laws as per the Vehicle Safety Act.
NHTSA reassured the public that it will continue to uphold safety standards for all manufacturers of motor vehicles and equipment. The agency clarified, “Under U.S. law, NHTSA does not pre-approve new technologies or vehicle systems. Instead, manufacturers are responsible for certifying that each vehicle complies with our rigorous safety standards.” This means that Tesla must ensure its robotaxi technology meets all safety requirements, and NHTSA will investigate any incidents that may suggest potential safety defects.
Following a thorough assessment of reports and relevant data, NHTSA stated it will implement any necessary actions to ensure road safety is maintained. The safety of autonomous vehicles is a top priority as the industry navigates these emerging technologies.
On Sunday, Tesla officially commenced paid rides for invited customers in South Austin, marking a pivotal moment in the company's quest to test its autonomous vehicle technology. While this launch is limited in both size and scope, it represents the first real-world application of Tesla's innovative approach to self-driving cars.
Tesla does offer its proprietary Full Self-Driving (FSD) software to vehicle owners, which assists with steering and braking. However, it remains an advanced driver assistance system that mandates drivers to keep their hands on the wheel at all times. In contrast, the robotaxis are equipped with an unsupervised version of FSD, although specific details about this software have not been disclosed by the company.
These robotaxis, accessible to customers through a dedicated app, are designed to operate autonomously. Nevertheless, it is important to note that each Tesla robotaxi includes a human “safety monitor” in the front passenger seat during rides. This measure aims to ensure that safety protocols are observed, despite the incidents reported online that show the robotaxis exceeding speed limits and even, in some situations, veering into oncoming lanes.
As Tesla navigates the complex landscape of autonomous vehicle deployment, the scrutiny from NHTSA serves as a critical reminder of the importance of adhering to traffic safety regulations. The outcome of this interaction could have significant implications for Tesla's future operations and the broader landscape of self-driving technology in the United States.
