Feds Escalate Probe into Tesla’s Supervised Full Self-Driving Software

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has intensified its investigation into Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (Supervised) software. The agency announced this development on Thursday, marking a transition from a preliminary investigation to an “engineering analysis,” which signifies the highest level of scrutiny. This upgrade is a critical step often taken before the potential issuance of a recall.

Details of the Investigation

This investigation is one of two currently examining concerns related to Tesla’s driving software. The NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) is also reviewing over 80 incidents where Tesla’s driver-assistance system allegedly violated essential traffic laws, including instances of running red lights.

Crashes in Low-Visibility Conditions

The probe into low-visibility situations was initiated following four reported crashes, one resulting in a pedestrian fatality. The NHTSA has been engaged in information exchanges with Tesla for approximately a year and a half. Recent findings suggest that Tesla’s automated system has struggled in conditions with poor visibility.

Inadequate Response to Failures

• The NHTSA reported that data collection and labeling issues might lead to an under-reporting of similar incidents.
• In the cases reviewed, the software failed to identify challenging roadway conditions and did not issue alerts until moments before the collisions occurred.
• Tesla’s system did not consistently detect when visibility was impaired, leading to dangerous outcomes.

Pending Updates and Requests

While Tesla began working on an update to address low-visibility issues in June 2024, the NHTSA has not received confirmation on whether this solution was implemented or which vehicles were affected. The ongoing dialogue between Tesla and the NHTSA shows the urgency and seriousness of the investigation.

Implications for Tesla’s Robotaxi Plans

These regulatory challenges come as Tesla aims to launch a robotaxi service in Austin, Texas. The scrutiny from the NHTSA underscores the critical importance of ensuring safety and reliability in autonomous technology.

The outcome of this investigation may have significant implications for Tesla’s future endeavors and its reputation in the cutting-edge field of self-driving technology.