đ Share this article US Authorities Begin Inquiry into Self-Driving Teslas Following Series of Crashes American vehicle safety authorities have commenced an investigation into Tesla vehicles featuring the full self-driving technology due to safety regulation breaches after several crashes. Regulatory Body Finds Traffic Law Breaches The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced that the automaker's autonomous driving feature, which demands drivers to stay alert and take control when necessary, had âinduced vehicle behaviour that breached road safety regulationsâ. This initial assessment by the NHTSA represents the first step before potentially requesting a withdrawal of the cars if the authority determines they present a danger to public safety. Alarming Case Findings The agency reported it had documented accounts of nearly 3 million Tesla cars driving through red traffic lights and moving against the incorrect direction during lane changes while using the technology. NHTSA stated it has six documented cases in which a Tesla car, operating with full self-driving engaged, âcame to an intersection with a red traffic signal, proceeded to travel into the intersection despite the red light and was later involved in a collision with other motor vehicles in the junctionâ. The authority reported that four crashes had resulted in one or more injuries. Further Safety Concerns The NHTSA announced it has identified 18 complaints and one media report claiming that Tesla vehicles, driving through an intersection with FSD engaged, âfailed to remain stationary for the duration of a red traffic signal, did not come to complete stop, or did not properly recognize and show the proper light status in the car's displayâ. Some complainants also stated that FSD âfailed to give alerts of the technology's intended behaviour as the vehicle was approaching a red traffic signalâ. Ongoing Regulatory Scrutiny Tesla's FSD, which is more advanced than its basic autopilot feature, has been under investigation by NHTSA for twelve months. In October 2024, the agency started an inquiry into 2.4 million Tesla vehicles equipped with FSD after four documented crashes in situations of poor visibility, such as sun glare, mist or airborne dust. One such accident, in 2023, was deadly. Manufacturer's Stated Position Tesla's website states that FSD is âintended for operation by a fully attentive motorist, who has their hands on the steering wheel and is prepared to assume control at any time. While these features are designed to become more capable, the presently active functions do not render the car autonomous.â Self-driving vehicle technology continue to face growing examination from regulatory bodies as the technology advances and practical implementation reveals potential challenges with current implementations.