Introduction to Tesla’s Self-Driving System Investigation
Background on the Investigation
Auto safety regulators are investigating Tesla Inc. over incidents in which its vehicles drove through red lights and violated other traffic laws while using the company’s partial-automation software.
Details of the Investigation
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said it’s aware of 58 incidents — including instances in which Teslas drove in the wrong direction on a road — that involved the driver-assistance system marketed as “Full Self-Driving.” The so-called preliminary evaluation involves an estimated 2.9 million vehicles, according to a filing posted on the agency’s website.
Response from Tesla
Tesla didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.
Broader Scrutiny of Tesla’s Technology
Ongoing Investigations
The probe broadens the scrutiny of Tesla’s driver-assistance technology and adds to other investigations into the automaker’s doors, Autopilot features and whether it’s reporting crashes in a timely manner. NHTSA said last year that it was looking into whether FSD has the ability to detect and appropriately respond to fog and other reduced visibility conditions.
Importance of FSD to Tesla
The system known as FSD is central to Chief Executive Elon Musk’s longstanding effort to develop driverless cars. While drivers are required to constantly supervise when the system is in use, Musk has predicted that drivers in certain states will soon no longer need to pay attention when FSD is engaged.
Market Impact
Tesla shares fell 1.4% as of 8:02 a.m. before regular trading in New York. The stock gained about 9% this year through Wednesday’s close.
Incidents and Consequences
Several of the incidents cited in the new probe resulted in crashes and injuries, NHTSA said. None of the incidents in the scope of its current investigation involve a fatality.
Specific Incidents
The regulator said it had identified six reports where a Tesla vehicle with FSD engaged “approached an intersection with a red traffic signal, continued to travel into the intersection against the red light and was subsequently involved in a crash” with other vehicles.
Location of Incidents
Multiple incidents occurred at the same intersection in Maryland. NHTSA said Tesla has since taken action to address the issue at this intersection.
Purpose of the Probe
The probe was opened to assess the “scope, frequency and potential safety consequences” of the FSD behavior cited in the incidents, NHTSA said.
Conclusion
The investigation into Tesla’s self-driving system for ignoring red lights and other traffic violations marks a significant development in the scrutiny of autonomous vehicle technology. As the industry continues to evolve, ensuring the safety and reliability of these systems will be paramount.
FAQs
What is the focus of the investigation into Tesla’s self-driving system?
The investigation is focused on incidents where Tesla vehicles, using the company’s "Full Self-Driving" software, drove through red lights and violated other traffic laws.
How many vehicles are involved in the preliminary evaluation?
An estimated 2.9 million vehicles are involved in the preliminary evaluation.
Have there been any fatalities reported in the incidents under investigation?
No, none of the incidents in the scope of the current investigation involve a fatality, though several resulted in crashes and injuries.
What action has Tesla taken regarding the incidents at a specific intersection in Maryland?
Tesla has taken action to address the issue at the intersection in Maryland where multiple incidents occurred.
What is the potential outcome of this investigation?
The investigation aims to assess the scope, frequency, and potential safety consequences of the FSD behavior cited in the incidents, which could lead to further regulatory actions or requirements for Tesla to enhance its technology.
