In brief
The NHTSA is probing Tesla's self-driving technology following reports that 58 incidents involved cars running red lights and driving improperly. Affected are estimated 2.9 million vehicles with full self-driving capabilities. Previous crashes have also been linked to this technology, raising safety concerns for Tesla vehicles. The investigation is focused on assessing the frequency and potential safety risks associated with the 'Full Self-Driving' mode.
Tesla is being investigated by the US government after reports the firm's self-driving cars had broken traffic laws, including driving on the wrong side of the road and not stopping for red lights.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) stated it was aware of 58 reports of such violations, as highlighted in a filing.
An estimated 2.9 million cars equipped with full self-driving technology fall under this investigation.
The NHTSA's preliminary evaluation aims to assess the scope, frequency, and potential safety consequences of the Full Self-Driving (Supervised) mode, which is an additional feature for Tesla owners.
Within this mode, the vehicles can perform tasks like lane changes and turns, yet drivers must remain prepared to take control at any time.
According to the NHTSA, some incidents have resulted in crashes, with six cases specifically recorded where vehicles stopped at a traffic light before proceeding while it was still red, causing injuries.
The agency has identified a recurring issue at a Maryland intersection where Tesla vehicles frequently ran red lights. In response, Tesla has reportedly implemented measures to mitigate the problem.
The investigation will also address incidents involving vehicles incorrectly entering the opposite lane while turning, with the agency noting that some of these occurrences provided little notice to the driver or opportunity to intervene.
This is not Tesla's only challenge; the company is already under scrutiny from the NHTSA over aspects of its door locking mechanisms, following reports of children getting trapped inside Model Y vehicles.
In recent months, Tesla has also introduced lower-cost versions of some of its popular models, aiming to remain competitive in the growing electric vehicle market.
Elon Musk, Tesla's CEO, has been involved in political discourse, recently forming a new political party amidst ongoing tensions with traditional political factions.
